Epithelioid Mesothelioma

Did You Know?
Epithelioid mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma cancer cell.

The most common and relatively treatable form of the cancer is Epithelioid mesothelioma.  Between 50-70% of mesothelioma cases fall into this category, and this type is most likely to respond to treatment. In order to diagnose a case of epithelioid mesothelioma, a biopsy is required. Epithelioid Mesothelioma cancer is the most common type of mesothelioma cancer cell.

There are three categories of mesothelioma cancer cells:

The individual cells have a unique pattern. They are relatively uniform in shape with a tubular pattern and a distinct cell nucleus under high magnification. Other types of cancer can also take a similar form, and if these cancers appear in the mesothelium, then they can be confused with epithelioid mesothelioma. Adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer often confused with epithelioid mesothelioma.

A biopsy I is needed to remove a section of suspect tissue for examination to determine a diagnosis.

Epithelioid Mesothelioma and Adenocarcinoma

Adenocarcinoma is a type of epithelial cancer that originates in the body's glandular tissue. Adenocarcinoma often presents itself as a benign glandular tumor (adenoma) that develops into a malignant state over time.

Epithelioid mesothelioma and adenocarcinoma are both rooted in the epithelial tissue, and as such, have a similar cellular structure. Chemical staining of a section of suspect tissue will often yield the correct diagnosis; however, chemical staining of epithelioid mesothelioma cells and adenocarcinoma cells sometimes elicits similar results.

Knowledge of a family history can often help aid in distinguishing between adenocarcinoma and epithelioid mesothelioma. If a patient has a family history of carcinoma, it is more likely that they suffer from a variant of the disease. If a patient has a history of asbestos exposure, it is more likely that they suffer from epithelioid mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Lung Cancer Lawyer is not designed to provide medical advice or is intended to be for educational use only. The information provided through Mesothelioma Lung Cancer Lawyer is not a substitute for professional care and should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. If you have, or suspect you may have, a health problem we can refer you to a mesothelioma doctor or lawyer in your state.