Mesothelioma Information

Malignant mesothelioma is a relatively rare type of  cancer that is caused by asbestos and affects the serous membrane that lines the body's largest cavities.  The serous membrane lining the body's larger cavities is commonly called the mesothelium.  The mesothelium is made up of mesothelial cells.

There are four types of malignant mesothelioma, each of which affects a different section of mesothelial tissue:

Pleura:  The pleura is the section of mesothelial tissue that lines the lungs and chest cavity.  Mesothelioma of the pleura (pleural mesothelioma) is the most common type of this uncommon asbestos cancer accounting for approximately 75% of all mesothelioma cases.

Peritoneum:  The peritoneum is the section of mesothelial tissue that lines the stomach and abdominal cavity.  Mesothelioma of the peritoneum is the second most common type of the mesothelioma cancer and is commonly called peritoneal mesothelioma.

Pericardium:  Thepericardium is the section of mesothelial tissue that lines the heart also called the heart sac.  Mesothelioma of the pericardium is the least common type of the rare asbestos cancer and is commonly called pericardial mesothelioma.

Tunica Vaginalis:  This tissue surrounds the testicals.  The cancer is often referred to as tunica vaginalis testis.  It is very rare.  See this web page for images of the tunica vaginalis.

Mesothelioma affects these parts of the body during the primary course of the asbestos disease.   Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer type that often metastasizes and spreads to various parts of the body, fostering the growth of secondary malignancies.  Therefore, mesothelioma can technically affect almost any part of the body if its cancerous cells are able to metastasize via the blood stream or lymphatic system.

Legal Questions

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) and think it may be caused by toxic exposure to organic solvents like benzene, and you have legal questions or require legal assistance, contact Paul & Hanley LLP.

Our firm has an outstanding track record of success in toxic tort litigation cases across the country, and our lawyers are known for their honesty, integrity and compassion.  We've built our reputation on toxic tort litigation representing individuals diagnosed with NHL, mesothelioma and other serious diseases with dignity and respect.

We handle a select number of cases at a time and represent workers and families with the extra special attention required for the best possible outcome in each case. We understand your case is unique, so we take the time to get to know you and your family. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation. We'll discuss your specific case and give you honest answers to your important questions. Our toll free telephone number is 800 933-2244. We look forward to helping you.