SARCOMATOID MESOTHELIOMA

Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is the least common of the four types of malignant mesothelioma cells

July 16, 2009 - There are four different types of malignant mesothelioma cells that develop as a result of occupational asbestos exposure: epithelial, sarcomatoid, biphasic (mixed), and desmoplastic (considered a variant of sarcomatoid).

Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is the least common of the four cellular mesothelioma types. This form of mesothelioma accounts for approximately 7 to 20 percent of cases.

The cause of mesothelioma is occupational asbestos exposure.

Treatment and prognosis

Each type of mesothelioma is treated the same way, as mesothelioma treatment is based on the location and stage of the cancer, rather than the types of cells involved.

In general, patients with sarcomatoid mesothelioma have a poorer prognosis than patients with epithelioid mesothelioma, as sarcomatoid cancers are more aggressive and more resistant to treatment.

Unfortunately, the general prognosis for all types of malignant mesothelioma is poor, and the difference in life expectancy between sarcomatoid, epithelioid, biphasic and desmoplastic cancers may amount to as little as a few months.

Who's at risk?

People who are at risk for developing sarcomatoid mesothelioma include employees who work with asbestos-containing materials. For decades, asbestos was used generously in many industries for its fire retardant properties.

Construction workers and military veterans are particularly at risk, as the building industry and the armed forces used abundant amounts of asbestos throughout the 20th century. Other industries present similar risks, including the shipyard, railroad, and automobile industries.

Law firm for asbestos-injured workers

Government sources estimate that in the next decade more than 35,000 people nationwide will be diagnosed with mesothelioma.

This disease is most often the result of industrial workplace exposure to asbestos – and usually contracted through employers’ choice for profits over the expense of maintaining the health and safety of workers.

That’s why people diagnosed with sarcomatoid mesothelioma and their surviving family members often have a strong case in court.

Weitz & Luxenberg has protected the legal rights of workers for 25 years. And in that time the firm's mesothelioma lawyers have won several billion dollars in verdicts and settlements for clients injured by occupational asbestos exposure.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and seek a free legal case review, please notify Weitz & Luxenberg through the communication form on this page. We will pursue your claim with vigilance to help compensate you and your family for medical bills, lost wages and damages.

Please know, there is no cost to you until we win a settlement or a verdict in your favor.