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Mesothelioma Cell Types
Malignant mesothelioma can also be classified by different cancer cell types, each of which tends to behave differently. There are three classifications assigned to mesothelioma cell types.
Epithelial Mesothelioma is the most common cell type and accounts for approximately 50-75% percent of all diagnosed cases each year. These cells are uniform in shape, with an elongated pattern that makes them easily distinguishable when viewed under high magnification. These cancers are adenocarcinomas, malignancies which are more commonly associated with pure lung cancers as opposed to cancers of the mesothelium.
Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is a less common cell type, accounting for between 7 and 20% of diagnosed cases each year. These cells grow forth out of supportive structures, such as muscles and bones.
Biphasic mesotheliomas are those with a mix of epithelial and sarcomatoid cell types. Treatment options do not vary greatly between cell types, but often sarcomatoid mesotheliomas are more difficult to treat as a result of the surrounding affected tissues from which they spread.
Thoracoscopy and the use of special stains can be helpful in identifying cellular classifications, though obtaining adequate tissue samples often require more invasive surgeries.
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Reference
National Cancer Institute. Mesothelioma Treatment-Health Professional Information. Cellular Classification http://www.peacehealth.org/kbase/nci/ncicdr0000062895.htm