What are mesothelioma cell types ?

Cell Types

When examined under a microscope,mesothelioma cell types fall into three categories: epithelioid, sarcomatoid or fibrous, and mixed/biphasic. The variety refers to the type of tissue where the cancer first developed. For example, epithelial mesothelioma refers to cancer cells that first develped in the epithelium, which is the membrane that lines the lung, abdomen or heart. The specific diagnosis is made based on how the cells look under a microscope.

Epithelioid
The most common form, accounting for approximately 50% to 70% of mesotheliomas. Tumor cells in epitheliod mesothelioma are most often cube-shaped, and uniform. Symptoms may include a persistent cough, difficulty in breathing, wheezing and pneumonia. Some patients may show no symptoms at all for a long period of time.

Sarcomatoid
Sarcomatous mesothelioma begins in the connective tissue of the lungs, stomach or heart and accounts for approximately 10% to 20% of all mesothelioma. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma cells come in different shapes, though many are spindly or elongated.

Mixed/Biphasic
Refers to mesothelioma that arises from two different cell types and many times contains both epithelioid and sarcomatoid cells. Mixed/Biphasic accounts for approximately 20% to 30% of all mesotheliomas.

Treatment Options
Treatment options for epithelioid, sarcomatoid and biphasic cell types are the same.

Source: Connelly & Vogelzang