- Mesothelioma
- Mesothelioma Facts
- Mesothelioma Symptoms
- Mesothelioma Awareness
- Mesothelioma Lung Cancer
- Mesothelioma Causes
- Mesothelioma Risk Factors
- Mesothelioma Incidence
- Mesothelioma Diagnosis
- Mesothelioma Tests
- Mesothelioma Biopsy
- Mesothelioma Blood Test
- Mesothelioma Pathology
- Mesothelioma Prognosis
- Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
- Mesothelioma Life Span
- Mesothelioma Survival Rate
- Mesothelioma Survivors
- Mesothelioma Death Rate
- Mesothelioma Types
- Pleural Mesothelioma
- Peritoneal Mesothelioma
- Pericardial Mesothelioma
- Well-Differentiated Papillary Mesothelioma
- Malignant Mesothelioma
- Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma
- Biphasic Mesothelioma
- Epithelial Mesothelioma
- Mesothelioma Staging
- Mesothelioma Metastasis
Well-Differentiated Papillary Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare and complex disease that affects thousands of people each year. This deadly form of cancer attacks the lungs, heart, and abdomen. The tumor develops in the lining that covers many of the body's internal organs. Well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma, one of the rarest forms of the disease, occurs in the peritoneum. This health condition affects young women under the age of 40, but it may also occur in middle-aged patients.
Background
Well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma generally develops in the peritoneum. This form of cancer may also affect the lining of the lungs, heart, stomach, and testicles. The disease is characterized by mild malignant lesions and benign tumors. While most forms of asbestos cancer are lethal, papillary mesothelioma can be treated.
This form of cancer has a papillary growth pattern. Malignant cells develop slowly without spreading to other organs. Since this disease tends to be less aggressive, the prognosis is often more favorable. The average survival rate among papillary mesothelioma patients is 74 months.
This cancer is associated with an indolent clinical course and high rates of recurrence. Information about its biological behavior is still limited. Papillary mesothelioma is more common in women of childbearing age.
Papillary Mesothelioma Causes
Like other types of mesothelioma, this rare form of cancer occurs in individuals with a history of asbestos exposure. More than 80 percent of the patients diagnosed with mesothelioma have been exposed to asbestos fibers. This material was heavily used in clay, cigarette filters, rope, construction products, marine panels, paint, fertilizers, textile garments, fake snow, auto parts, and sponge blocks.
Workplace exposure to asbestos is the main cause of well-defined papillary mesothelioma. This form of cancer may also occur through secondary exposure. The time between diagnosis and the time of initial occupational exposure is 20 years or more. Asbestos-related diseases have been diagnosed in asbestos workers, their relatives, and people who live close to asbestos processing plants.
Diagnosis
Well-defined papillary mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose because it has no specific symptoms. Its clinical manifestations are often benign and cause very little or no pain to the patient. Doctors typically perform imaging tests, biopsies, and X-rays to detect abnormal cells and determine the size and location of the tumor. The prognosis is usually favorable.
Treatment
There is no standard treatment for this rare disease. If you have been diagnosed with well-defined papillary mesothelioma, the doctor will remove the tumor through surgery. All forms of asbestos cancer are subject to three potential treatment options: radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery. These medical procedures aim to shrink the tumor, kill cancer cells, and prevent them from dividing. Most doctors recommend surgery along with radiation treatment and chemotherapy.
Like any other form of cancer, well-defined papillary mesothelioma is treatable when diagnosed in early stages. Your doctor can find an appropriate treatment and help you get your life back on track. If you want to know more about papillary mesothelioma and exposure to asbestos, all you have to do is complete the form below.