Types of Mesothelioma

The Pennsylvania and New Jersey mesothelioma attorneys of Howard, Brenner & Nass, P.C. explain about the three different types of mesothelioma cancers: Pleural, peritoneal and pericardial mesothelioma, along with their symptoms and diagnoses.

Pleural Mesothelioma:

This is the most common type of mesothelioma. This mesothelioma develops in the lining around the lungs known as pleura. Pleural mesothelioma begins in either the left pleura or the right pleura. The first symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are usally pain on the side of the chest and shortness of breath. CAT scans and PET scans are used to detect the location of the tumor, and any fluid caused by the tumor in the lining. A biopsy of the tumor and/or fluid is used to actually confirm that the type of cancer is mesothelioma.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma:

This type of mesothelioma develops in the lining around the abdomen, known as the peritoneum. When a mesothelioma tumor progresses in the peritoneal lining, and causes fluid in the lining, individuals will experience severe abdominal pain and swelling. Like pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma is diagnosed through the use of scanning and biopsies.

Pericardial Mesothelioma:

Of the three types of mesothelioma cancer, pericardial mesothelioma is the least common form. It develops in the pericardial lining around the heart, and as it progresses, it causes chest pain and eventually heart and lung failure. Pericardial mesothelioma is also diagnosed through the use of scanning and biopsies.

If you have been diagnosed with any one of these three forms of mesothelioma, in all likelihood your mesothelioma was caused by the exposure to asbestos and you have certain legal rights which should be pursued and protected by an experienced law firm. Please contact the Pennsylvania and New Jersey mesothelioma attorneys of Howard, Brenner & Nass, P.C. at 215-546-8200, or submit our quick contact web form.