Malignant epithelioid mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma, a cancer mainly caused by exposure to asbestos. This type of cancer develops when the cells that form the outer layer of tissues, called epithelioid cells, become cancerous after being exposed to asbestos fibers. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 50% to 70% of all mesothelioma cases. Unlike other types of mesotheliomas, this form usually responds better to treatment, leading to a more hopeful outlook.
Cause
Asbestos Exposure.
Symptoms of Epithelial Mesothelioma
The symptoms of epithelioid mesothelioma can differ based on where the tumour is located and how advanced it is. For pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lungs, common symptoms include chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath, and fluid buildup around the lungs (known as pleural effusion). In peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the abdomen, symptoms usually include abdominal pain, swelling, and fluid buildup in the abdomen (called peritoneal effusion). Early-stage symptoms are often mild, making the disease harder to diagnose.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis usually begins with imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans to check for any unusual signs. Blood tests can also help find markers that suggest mesothelioma. To confirm the disease, a small sample of tissue (biopsy) is taken and examine under a microscope. Special tests, called immunohistochemistry (IHC), use specific antibodies to tell epithelioid mesothelioma apart from other cancers, like lung cancer.
Treatment
Treatment for epithelioid mesothelioma often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation therapy. Surgery aims to remove as much of the cancer as possible. Chemotherapy is used to help slow the cancer’s growth and can extend survival. Immunotherapy, which helps the body’s immune system fight the cancer, has also shown promise, especially for patients who can’t have surgery. The overall survival for patients with epithelioid mesothelioma can range from 1.5 to 6.5 years, depending on the treatment plan and how far the cancer has progressed.
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