Cystic Mesothelioma

Cystic mesothelioma is a rare form of peritoneal mesothelioma characterized by cysts that develop in the lining around the abdomen. Unlike other mesothelioma types, cystic mesothelioma primarily affects young women. While the cause of cystic mesothelioma is unknown, most cystic mesothelioma patients have previously had a pelvic operation, endometriosis, and/or pelvic inflammatory disease.

Even though cystic mesothelioma can be painful, it is benign, meaning the disease does not invade surrounding tissue or spread to other body parts. Because it is benign, cystic mesothelioma is not considered life-threatening. In fact, cystic mesothelioma often does not require any treatment. On the other hand, medical treatments may be necessary to relieve cystic mesothelioma symptoms.

Cystic Mesothelioma Symptoms and Diagnosis

The most common cystic mesothelioma symptoms are pelvic pain and lower abdominal pain. Doctors usually recommend that these symptoms be treated with surgery to remove the cysts. Typically, cystic mesothelioma can be completely eradicated with surgery; however, the cysts tend to recur, or grow back.

Before cystic mesothelioma symptoms can be successfully treated, a correct diagnosis must be obtained. Unfortunately, cystic mesothelioma can be hard to diagnose due to the complicated procedures that must be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Specifically, tissue samples must be stained with antibodies and examined under a microscope in procedures called immunohistochemical studies and electron microscopy.

Cystic Mesothelioma Support

Because cystic mesothelioma is extremely rare, finding an experienced cystic mesothelioma treatment center may require traveling a long distance. As a result, cystic mesothelioma patients may face hefty transportation expenses. These expenses can be overwhelming, especially if they are not covered by medical insurance. To help alleviate these financial burdens, some non-profit organizations provide cystic mesothelioma patients with free transportation to medical treatment facilities. For example:

  • Corporate Angel Network provides cancer patients with free airplane transportation to treatment facilities (corporateangelnetwork.org).
  • Angel Flight Inc. provides free private airplane transportation to medical facilities and blood, organ, and tissue banks for medical patients who cannot afford it (angelflight.com).

Diagnosed with mesothelioma? Click here to learn more about whether you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.



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