Biphasic mesothelioma
is the second most common cellular form of this disease, accounting for
20 to 40 percent of all known cases. As the name implies, biphasic
mesothelioma is a mixture of two mesothelioma cell
types.
Characteristics
Unlike the more common epithelioid type, biphasic mesothelioma cells
lack a specific structure. This type of mesothelioma is a mix of
epithelioid and sarcomatoid cells. Whereas the former has a clearly
visible nucleus and is found in uniform, organized arrangements and tend
to be of a single shape, sarcomatoid cells are more oval or oblong
shaped and have no easily identifiable nucleus. Although both mesothelioma
types are present in a biphasic tumor, they have a tendency to form
in differentiated groups; they are not usually found in the same area of
the tumor.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Mesothelioma
cancer is exceptionally difficult to diagnose, which is why a mesothelioma
diagnosis is usually not made until stage 3
mesothelioma or stage 4
mesothelioma is reached. It is important to confirm a history of asbestos exposure,
as mesothelioma
symptoms are similar to a wide range of respiratory illnesses.
Mesothelioma
doctors usually take an x-ray; if there is cause for concern, the
patient is referred to a radiology lab, where more advanced images are
taken. If abnormal areas are discovered, a tissue sample, or biopsy is
taken to confirm the diagnosis.
A recent test developed by a Japanese biotech company, called
MESOMARK™, may help pathologists in diagnosing mesothelioma at an
earlier stage, when it is most treatable.
Treatment in most cases is limited to palliative ones, since the
disease is usually diagnosed too late for mesothelioma
surgery. Mesothelioma is usually treated with a multi-modal
therapy involving a combination of radiation
and chemotherapy;
surgical techniques may be used to relieve the symptoms, but in the
later stages are usually not effective in treating the disease.
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