Mesothelioma is a form of lung cancer that often develops after exposure to asbestos. Like all afflictions involving cancerous cells, mesothelioma can be benign or malignant.
What is Benign Mesothelioma?
There are several differences between benign and malignant mesothelioma. First, benign mesothelioma originates in a different area than malignant mesothelioma. Most cases of benign mesothelioma form in the tissues under the mesothelial cells that line the pleura. This area is called the submesothelium.
The second major difference between benign and malignant mesothelioma is that, in most cases, benign mesothelioma does not metastasize to other parts of the body. However, it is important to remember that, in a small number of cases, benign mesothelioma can be very aggressive. For this reason, some doctors now refer to benign mesothelioma tumors as “solitary fibrous tumors.”
Third, benign mesothelioma tumors grow slowly, while malignant mesothelioma tumors develop rapidly.
Lastly, benign mesothelioma is not associated with asbestos exposure.
Is Benign Mesothelioma Dangerous?
With the exception of a few cases of benign mesothelioma that can be aggressive, this condition should not cause patients much distress. Benign mesothelioma often does not exhibit any symptoms, and many patients do not even know they have the condition until it is discovered during tests and procedures for other conditions.
Certain patients with benign mesothelioma, however, may develop symptoms similar to the condition’s malignant counterpart. In these situations, patients may decide to undergo a surgical procedure to remove benign tumors and relieve their symptoms.
Malignant mesothelioma, on the other hand, rarely has as positive a prognosis. Patients with malignant mesothelioma often live with debilitating symptoms, and treatments only serve to mitigate these symptoms rather than cure the disease entirely.
If you or someone you love has been exposed to asbestos and now suffers from malignant mesothelioma, our team is here for you. We’re well-versed in mesothelioma litigation, and we can help you seek justice against the negligent parties that caused you harm.
Contact Shrader & Associates L.L.P. today at (713) 787-3733 to schedule a consultation with our team.