What are the types and prognosis of mesotheliomas?
There are three types. Mesothelioma is a tumor of the mesothelial cells which make up the lining that surrounds and protects the heart (pericardium), lungs (pleural) and abdomen (peritoneal). Pleural mesothelioma is the most common and affects the lungs. Pleural mesotheliomas can be benign or malignant,with the cancerous type being most common. Prognosis is poor with approximately a 17-month survival from symptom onset. Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the abdomen and is the second most common of the mesotheliomas. Prognosis for peritoneal mesothelioma is worse at 10 months from symptom onset. There is a rare and benign form of peritoneal mesothelioma, seen mostly in young females. Pericardial mesothelioma affects the heart, this is the rarest of the three and prognosis is the poorest.