Heterologous Mesothelioma

Heterologous mesothelioma is a rare subtype of mesothelioma. Information is limited, with just a few cases ever recorded. The heterologous type of mesothelioma is characterized by cells from other areas of the body in the tumors.

If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you might be entitled to substantial compensation. We invite you to fill out our form today for a free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information about experienced mesothelioma lawyers in your area, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file an asbestos trust fund claim, and much more. 

About Heterologous Mesothelioma

Heterologous mesothelioma closely resembles any other type of mesothelioma. Its only difference is that the cancerous cells’ structures inside the tumor do not resemble other cell structures.

Tumors of the heterologous type have tissues that contain different cells and tissue. For instance, the tumors may have bone or muscle cells. Physicians are still unsure of how this happens, which makes treatment difficult.

Heterologous Mesothelioma Causes

As with other types of mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos seems to be the primary cause of heterologous mesothelioma. Yet, it’s still unclear how the subtype’s histological aspects affect people.

As mentioned earlier, scientists and physicians are still researching, but so far, research indicates that cellular differentiation is also an important factor when determining the cause of heterologous mesothelioma.

Cellular differentiation occurs when specialized cells become less specialized than others. Once this process happens, the cells cannot work as they should.

Cancerous cells that differentiate are less developed than the surrounding cells and indicate a grim prognosis. Tumors with this adverse differentiation tend to spread and grow fast.

Cell differentiation, along with the genetic changes that occur with mesothelioma cancer, is one theory on how heterologous mesothelioma occurs.

Heterologous Mesothelioma Prognosis and Treatment Options

The prognosis for heterologous mesothelioma is currently grim. According to the few studies conducted on this subtype, the average survival rate of heterologous mesothelioma patients is around six to nine months. Yet, since there is so little data and research, the average survival rate is still uncertain.

In addition, as with every case of mesothelioma, survival rates are not set in stone. One patient diagnosed with heterologous mesothelioma lived for more than five years after treatment.

Treatment is still not clearly defined for this unusual subtype of mesothelioma. In recent studies, physicians indicated that bone morphogenetic protein 2, or BMP-2, may help heterologous mesothelioma patients extend their survival rates.

Traditional treatments are also offered for patients with heterologous mesothelioma, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of two or more treatments (multimodal).

Furthermore, as with all types of mesothelioma, your lifestyle will play a role in your survival rate. Consider the following that could potentially help in extending the survival rate:

• Maintain a strong support group, whether it be family, friends, in-person mesothelioma support meetings, or online support groups.
• Always consume a diet that consists of green, leafy vegetables, fruits, and lean meat, or other forms of protein. Your physician can help you work out a diet plan for your needs.
• Get as much exercise as possible, but be certain to stop if you feel ill or too winded. Again, your physician can help you develop a good exercise plan as well.
• Try to keep your stress levels as low as possible. Stress contributes to numerous illnesses.

Any diagnosis of mesothelioma is difficult, but the heterologous type can be especially confusing. Talk to your doctor about treatment options and contact an experienced lawyer to learn what you can do about past asbestos exposure.

Additional Help for Mesothelioma Victims

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 pain, suffering, medical expenses, and more. For additional assistance, contact us toll-free at 800-793-4540.