Find Legal Topics > Mesothelioma Laws > Small Cell Mesothelioma

Small Cell Mesothelioma


What is Small Cell Mesothelioma?

Small cell mesothelioma is a rare form of mesothelioma cancer—the condition accounts for only 15-20% of all mesothelioma cases. The indicators for small cell mesothelioma are similar to deadly lung conditions, such as adenocarcinoma of the lungs. The origin of the small cell mesothelioma is the primary factor to accurately diagnose the condition. 

Small cell mesothelioma is not easily identifiable through a microscopic evaluation of a human’s cells. To determine the form of mesothelioma, doctors must perform thoracoscopys or biopsies. These surgeries allow a medical professional to examine the cells and tissue surrounding or associated with the tumor. A sample of the tumor is needed to affirm an accurate diagnosis. 

Mesothelioma forms in the outer epithelium after an individual maintains habitual exposure to asbestos filaments and microfibers. Asbestos fibers may sit in the epithelium and go unnoticed for up to 40 or 50 years. Small cell mesothelioma forms in the mesothelium, whereas adenocarcinoma of the lungs originates in the inner epithelium of vital organs. 

Although both adenocarcinoma and small cell mesothelioma possess uniform cellular appearances, small cell mesothelioma is uniformly cube shaped and proliferates throughout the body. 

Epithelial mesothelioma is a particular condition that affects the epithelial cells or layer of cells that protect the internal surfaces of the human body. Small cell mesothelioma often occurs or is attached with pleural mesothelioma cases. 

Causes of Small Cell Mesothelioma:

Perpetual contact with asbestos is the primary cause of small cell mesothelioma. The number of patients diagnosed with this disease is growing every day; this surge is widely due to the fact that the disease is slow-forming. 

Treatment Options Associated with Small Cell Mesothelioma:

Treatment options associated with small cell mesothelioma are similar for all other mesothelioma cases and cell types. The differentiation regarding treatment is tied into the stage and location of the affected cells and not the cell type. That being said, small cell respond best to aggressive treatment options. The most common treatment options associated with small cell mesothelioma include: surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. 

Small cell mesothelioma possesses a better prognosis when compared to biphasic and sarcomatoid subtypes. The survival timeframe for those affected patients is approximately one year following diagnosis. 

Related Topics