Well-Differentiated Papillary Mesothelioma
Well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma is an uncommon type of epithelial mesothelioma that affects the small, tube-like cells that exist on the surface of your organs. This condition is most common in young women.
This form of mesothelioma usually develops in the lining of the stomach. There, multiple, grey-white nodules form and spread slowly. Some instead have a single mass, but it may also affect the lungs in middle-aged and elderly patients. Rarely, this disease begins in the heart, testes, ovaries, or tunica vaginalis. Unlike malignant mesothelioma, this form of cancer responds well to treatment and does not spread to other parts of the body. Only 38 cases of well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma have been reported.
What Causes Papillary Mesothelioma?
The main cause of the disease is asbestos exposure. Most patients diagnosed with well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma have had significant exposure.
Papillary Mesothelioma Symptoms
Well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma doesn't progress quickly, so patients usually feel no symptoms. However, some may experience difficulty breathing or fluid buildup in the abdominal area. If patients do experience symptoms, they vary depending on the location of the tumor.
Diagnosis and Treatment
This rare disease is easier to detect and treat compared to other forms of mesothelioma. The most common tests include biopsies, CT scans, MRIs, x-rays, and blood tests. This form of cancer can be confused with certain conditions affecting the heart, abdominal area, or ovary, so you need to tell your doctor about any prolonged exposure to asbestos. That will ensure you get the correct diagnosis.
This form of mesothelioma is treated similarly to the others. The most common treatment options are surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma is so rare that no standard treatment has been established. Still, this disease has the best prognosis.
What Do You Do Now?
If you suffer from well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure, you may want to seek legal help. We can help you do that so you can receive compensation for your losses. All you need to do is fill out the form on this page. Then we'll send you more information about papillary mesothelioma and asbestos exposure.
