Epithelioid Malignant Mesothelioma

Epithelioid Malignant Mesothelioma

Epithelioid malignant mesothelioma is the most frequent asbestos-related type of cancer diagnosed in individuals who were once repeatedly exposed to asbestos. Cells which have become infected with epithelioid mesothelioma are distorted in shape, appearing tubular under a microscope because of DNA mutations caused by the asbestos fibers embedded in lungs which have disturbed normal cellular processes. Specialists are also able to detect noticeable differences in the cell nuclei of cells sickened by epithelioid malignant mesothelioma.

The only cause of this cancer is from asbestos exposure, a fibrous material created from naturally occurring minerals and used in a variety of building materials and other industrial products. Because these fibers are microscopic, they are easily inhaled and quickly insert themselves into the soft tissues surrounding the lungs. As a result, inflammation irritates the lungs, which generates conditions conducive to the proliferation of malignant cell growth. According to the Cancer Society’s website, the risk of being affected by mesothelioma increases with age, “with three out of four people diagnosed with mesothelioma being over the age of 65”. In addition, this disease appears to men four times more than women, no doubt due to the manufacturing-type jobs men used to have over 30 years ago.

A relatively new technique being experiment with for the treatment of epithelioid malignant mesothelioma is PDT, or photodynamic therapy. This therapy involves a light-activated drug that is injected in the patient’s vein. The drug has a definite tendency to target cancerous cells and collect inside the cells. After waiting a few days, a specialized red light is inserted into the chest, which stimulates the drug and promotes eradication of cancer cells. However, the drug can only be activated by this red light. The Cancer Organization site states that clinical trials are now being implemented to further develop this type of treatment for epithelioid malignant mesothelioma.

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