Types of Mesothelioma
All types of mesothelioma are rare and deadly forms of cancer that primarily are caused by long term asbestos exposure. The four main types of mesothelioma affect approximately 3,000 people in the U.S. every year, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Types of Mesothelioma: Pleural Mesothelioma
The most common of the four types of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which develops in the mesothelium that surrounds pleural tissue in the chest. Pleural mesothelioma is one of the most common types of malignant mesothelioma, accounting for 75 percent of all new cases. It is often caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers that become lodged in tissue and cause inflammation.
According to the Mayo Clinic, signs and symptoms for types of mesothelioma in the lungs can include chest pains under the rib cage, coughing, shortness of breath, unexplained weight loss, and the development of lumps under the skin on the chest.
Types of Mesothelioma: Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second most common of all types of mesothelioma, accounting for 10 to 20 percent of all new cases annually and develops in the peritoneum, or the lining of the abdomen. It is thought that peritoneal mesothelioma is caused by swallowing of loose asbestos fibers rather than by inhaling them.
The Mayo Clinic lists abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, noticeable lumps of tissue in the abdomen, and unexplained weight loss as symptoms of types of mesothelioma that affect the abdomen.
Other Types of Mesothelioma
There are two additional, yet rare types of mesothelioma:
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Pericardial mesothelioma –The second least common of all types of mesothelioma. Pericardial mesothelioma is cancer of the lining around the heart. This type of mesothelioma is very rare.
- Mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis – This is the rarest of all types of mesothelioma. It originates in the lining around the testicles, which is technically part of the peritoneum.
Help for All Types of Mesothelioma
If you or a loved one has a history of asbestos exposure and have been diagnosed with any types of mesothelioma or lung cancer, call Sokolove Law today. Learn about possible legal action that can be taken while undergoing treatments for all types of mesothelioma, or for any other asbestos-related cancer. Contact an asbestos attorney to learn more about asbestos law and the possibilities of receiving a settlement.