Benign Mesothelioma, Epithelial Mesothelioma

Unlike all other forms of mesothelioma, benign mesothelioma is not cancerous. A tumor forms in the mesothelial layer around the heart, lungs, stomach or elsewhere in the abdomen and grows larger. However, it is not cancerous and does not spread to nearby tissues or other areas of the body.

The symptoms of benign mesothelioma are often similar to those of other types of mesothelioma, and depend, somewhat, on what area's mesothelial lining is affected. Typically, they include:

    * Pressure, tightness, swelling or pain in the affected area
    * For peritoneal (abdomen): nausea, loss of appetite, bowel obstruction
    * For pericardial (heart): heart palpitations, shortness of breath, persistent cough
    * For pleural (lungs): shortness of breath, wheezing, persistent cough

Treatment for benign mesothelioma is usually surgery. The prognosis after surgery is excellent.
Malignant Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma is a general term that encompasses all cancerous types of mesothelioma. To learn more about each of the types of mesothelioma including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and survival, follow these links:

    * Pleural
    * Peritoneal
    * Pericardial

Epithelial Mesothelioma

Epithelial mesothelioma is a malignant form of mesothelioma that specifically affects the epithelial cells. Epithelial cells build the tissue and membranes that line and protect the outside of organs as well as the abdominal cavity (peritoneum). 50% - 70% of all diagnosed cases of malignant mesothelioma are classified as epithelial, or epithelioid, mesothelioma. The symptoms of epithelial mesothelioma depend on the area or organ where the cancer is located such as the lungs, stomach or abdomen, or heart or if it has spread to other areas of the body.
Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma