Almost all mesotheliomas are malignant. In rare cases, however, mesothelioma is benign or non-cancerous. As a matter of fact, only 10% of mesothelioma cases are non-malignant. Benign Mesothelioma, also known as multicystic or fibrous mesothelioma, is described as localized mesothelioma. This is because it does not spread to the surrounding tissues; it is non-invasive by nature. The cause is not known and has nothing to do with asbestos exposure but it commonly develop in the lungs than in the heart and abdomen. Unlike malignant mesothelioma, it can be detected immediately because the patients demonstrate symptoms at an earlier time. Though not life threatening, its symptoms should be considered as warning for the possible development into a malignant one.
Benign mesothelioma is diagnosed in the same manner as malignant mesothelioma. Your doctor will review first your occupational and medical history and conduct a complete physical examination. Men undergo a more thorough examination because they are often diagnosed with the disease compared to women. Thereafter, you will need to undergo chest or abdomen x-ray. A CT scan will likewise be necessary to see the cross-section of your body and an MRI to find the tumors in or around your lungs. These imaging tests allow your doctor to determine with exactness the location of tumor. Biopsy is the last process of the examination. Your doctor will get a tumor tissue sample and examine it to determine whether it is indeed benign or malignant.
Benign mesothelioma is easier to treat. The most recommended and effective treatment is mesothelioma surgery to remove the tumor which is the root of the pain and discomfort. If the tumor is located in your lungs, you have to undergo thoracotomy which involves the removal of a portion of the lungs. There will be no additional treatment like chemotherapy and radiation following the surgery because the tumor is only localized. However, there is a probability to develop complications like pleural effusion. It is a fluid build-up which pressures both lungs and heart. It can be treated by fitting a chest drain after the surgery.
Patients who underwent surgical treatment experience successful recuperation. In fact 90% of them have no report of recurrence of tumors. However, the remaining 10% probability should not be disregarded. Always consider the fact that benign mesothelioma may just be a forerunner of a more complicated malignant type of mesothelioma. Continuous follow-up and regular check-up with your doctor are still advised.
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