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Malignant Mesothelioma

The terms describing mesothelioma can be somewhat confusing. It is important for the mesothelioma patient to have a good grasp of these terms when considering his or her options for treatment.

Traditionally, the term mesothelioma has been used to describe any tumor of the mesothelium — the thin layer of tissue lining the chest cavity, the abdominal cavity, and covering the surface of most of the organs. The mesothelium is made up of mesothelial cells that produce a special lubricating fluid; this fluid helps organs such as the lungs and heart move more smoothly.

Mesothelioma Tumors

Tumors of any part of the mesothelium can be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous). A major source of confusion is that malignant mesothelioma is sometimes called simply mesothelioma. However, many benign forms of tumors have traditionally also been called mesothelioma. Fortunately, doctors are now working together to make these terms less confusing.

A benign tumor that forms in the pleura (mesothelium of the chest) has been called benign fibrous mesothelioma. It is now known that this tumor begins in the tissue underneath the mesothelium layer and thus is not true mesothelioma. Doctors now refer to this type of tumor as a solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura. While most of these tumors are benign, they can be cancerous, so the older name was highly inaccurate.

Similar tumors can start in the peritoneum (mesothelium of the abdomen). These are now called a solitary fibrous tumor of the peritoneum. According the American Cancer Society, solitary fibrous tumors of the pleura or the peritoneum can be removed by surgery and generally do not require further treatment.

Other Tumors of the Mesothelium

The mesothelium of both the female and male reproductive tracts can also develop various forms of tumors. A benign tumor called an adenomatoid tumor affects both men and women. Men may develop an adenomatoid tumor in the epididymis (the ducts that transport sperm cells from the testicle). Women may develop an adenomatoid tumor in the fallopian tubes (the tubes that transport the eggs from the ovaries the uterus). Another form of tumor that can develop near the female reproductive organs is still referred to as a benign cystic mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Causes

Researchers are uncertain what causes solitary fibrous tumors, adenomatoid tumors, and benign cystic mesothelioma. It is likely that these tumors of the mesothelium are not linked to asbestos exposure. Solitary fibrous tumors seldom produce symptoms and are generally detected during tests for other conditions.

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