Cystic Mesothelioma

Cystic mesothelioma is a rare form of mesothelioma that develops in mesothelial epithelial cells. Fewer than 200 people have been diagnosed with this cell type. Surgery is the predominant treatment for cystic mesothelioma.

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About Cystic Mesothelioma

Cystic mesothelioma usually starts as a non-life-threatening illness, but it will develop into aggressive, life-threatening cancer for some people (on rare occasions). 

Cystic mesothelioma is mainly considered a benign disease, however. When caught, patients have treatment options that let them continue on with their lives.

Most occurrences of cystic mesothelioma develop in either lining of the abdomen or in the lower pelvic area. They may grow in the rectum, uterus, or bladder in some cases. Rarely, but in some instances, they develop in the liver.

The cystic subtype of mesothelioma differs from most others as it primarily affects females, whereas most other forms of mesothelioma affect more males. It can affect young women as well as middle-aged women. However, the average age of diagnosis is around 37-38 years.

Unlike most other mesothelioma cell types, the cystic variety doesn’t come from asbestos exposure. Since it mostly occurs in females, experts suggest a prior case of endometriosis may contribute to the development of cystic mesothelioma.

Other studies suggest that female hormones, prior surgery, or chronic irritation may affect the disease’s development.

Characteristics of Cystic Cell Types

Cystic mesothelioma cells are characterized by smooth, thin-walled cysts held together by fibrovascular tissue. The individual cells are flat or cube-shaped.

The cysts fill up with mucinous or gelatinous fluid and can grow as large as 20 cm in diameter. On imaging scans, doctors may be able to see separate “chambers” in the cystic tumor. Once removed from the body, the tumors may appear pale yellow.

Unlike many types of cancer, cystic mesothelioma does not metastasize. It is considered a localized tumor.

Cystic Mesothelioma Diagnosis

While there usually aren’t many symptoms of cystic mesothelioma, people may experience:

• Weight loss
• Lower stomach pain
• Pelvic pain

During diagnosis, doctors will notice calcified plaques after using immunohistochemical staining, which can help them differentiate cystic cells from other types of cells.

Cystic Mesothelioma Treatment

Surgery is generally recommended as a favorable treatment for cystic mesothelioma. Some patients, however, may use chemotherapy only as treatment.

Since there are so few cases of cystic mesothelioma, it’s hard to determine the outlook of chemotherapy. Still, surgery has been effective for the patients who opted for it in the past.

Patients who undergo surgery will more than likely have to go back for follow-up treatment, as these types of cysts tend to come back. It’s important to keep follow-up treatment appointments because, as mentioned earlier, in some cases, cystic mesothelioma can turn into malignant mesothelioma.

Cystic Mesothelioma Prognosis

Since cystic mesothelioma develops slowly and doesn’t move to other parts of the body, and does not metastasize, most patients have a favorable prognosis.

If you have received a rare diagnosis of cystic mesothelioma, you have treatment options. Talk to your medical team about which ones are best for you.

Additional Resources for Mesothelioma Patients

Remember to fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on experienced asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area. Keep in mind that if you have mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for considerable compensation. For additional assistance, contact us at 800-793-4540.