Types of mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare cancerous (malignant) tumour. It starts in the mesothelium and can grow into and destroy nearby tissue. It can also spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.
Mesothelioma has different names depending on where it is in the body.
Pleural mesothelioma
Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma. It starts in the
pleura. The pleura is a
More men than women are diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma. We need more research and can’t say at this time what the incidence is for transgender, non-binary and gender-diverse people.
Peritoneal mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second most common type of mesothelioma. It starts in the peritoneum. The peritoneum is the membrane that lines the inside of the abdomen and pelvis, and it surrounds many of the organs in these parts of the body.
Men and women are equally affected by peritoneal mesothelioma. We need more research and can’t say at this time what the incidence is for transgender, non-binary and gender-diverse people.
Very rare types of mesotheliomas
The following cancerous tumours of the mesothelium are very rare.
Pericardial mesothelioma starts in the membrane that surrounds the heart (called the pericardium). Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
Mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis starts in the membrane that surrounds each testicle. Treatment is surgery to remove the testicle and the scrotum, as well as the lymph nodes in the area. Radiation therapy may be offered after surgery.
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