What Are the Different Types of Mesothelioma?

Described By Our Mesothelioma Attorneys

There are two major types of malignant mesothelioma—pleural and peritoneal — which are both caused by asbestos exposure.

What is Pleural Mesothelioma?

Pleural mesothelioma is the type of mesothelioma that is commonly associated with lung cancer. It is actually a type of cancer that infects the cells of the pleura, which is the lining that surrounds the lungs forming a thin barrier between them and chest cavity wall. This type of mesothelioma accounts for about 75 percent of all types of the disease.

What is Peritoneal Mesothelioma?

Peritoneal mesothelioma is similar to the pleural form of the disease in that it is located in the barrier of cells that separate abdominal organs from the abdominal cavity wall. This thin layer of cells is called the peritoneum. This type of cancer most commonly leads to cancers of the stomach, throat, intestines, and other types of abdominal cancer. This peritoneal form of the disease accounts for an additional 10-20 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses.

There also exists a type of the disease known as pericardial mesothelioma. This type is much less likely to occur in a given patient, although about 5-15 percent of mesothelioma sufferers may have this form of the disease. The pericardium is the lining around the heart that acts in much the same way as that around other organs. Although it is much less likely, this type of mesothelioma is equally dangerous to the patient and should be treated by a specialist as soon as possible.

How Can I File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?

Because mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure, our law firm has filed many lawsuits on behalf of these victims. As mesothelioma lawyers, we have had experience with all types of mesothelioma and we would be happy to discuss your case and potential mesothelioma compensation with you. If you need to speak with a attorney, contact our asbestos exposure law firm today.