Types of Mesothelioma
Pleural mesothelioma - See also Symptoms, Surgery
Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of malignant mesothelioma. It accounts for about 75% of all types of malignant mesothelioma.
Pleural Mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the lungs, called the "pleura". The "pleura" are fibrous sheets that help to protect the lungs. They produce a lubricating fluid that allow the lungs to move smoothly as we breathe. Because pleural mesothelioma is uncommon, some doctors misdiagnose the disease as lung cancer. Lung cancer, however, is different from pleural mesothelioma because lung cancer is a malignant tumor that originates in the lungs, whereas pleural mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the lungs.
Peritoneal mesothelioma - See also Symptoms, Surgery
Peritoneal mesothelioma is much less common than pleural mesothelioma. It accounts for about 10 to 20% of mesotheliomas.
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a cancer in the lining that surrounds the stomach or abdomin, called the peritoneum. The peritoneum are cells that produce a lubricating fluid that protect the stomach. They allow the stomach to move freely when, for instance, you are digesting food.
Pericardial mesothelioma - See also Symptoms, Surgery
Pericardial mesothelioma is the least common form of malignant mesothelioma. It only accounts for 5 to 15% of all mesotheliomas.
Pericardial mesothelioma is a cancer in the lining that surrounds the heart, called the pericardium. The pericardium are cells that produce a lubricating fluid that protect the heart. They allow the heart to move freely when, for instance, it is pumping blood to other parts of your body.