Papillary Mesothelioma
Papillary Mesothelioma is a subtype of epithelial mesothelioma—a condition where the membranes within the body are invaded by cube-like cancer cells. These cancer cells may form into a tumor or tumors, referred to as well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma (this mesothelioma is commonly referred to as “WDPM”).
Symptoms of papillary mesothelioma may include pain and excessive fluid buildup in the membranes or body cavities of patients. However, in most cases, patients will be asymptomatic. Papillary mesothelioma is also very slow-moving. The cells multiply at a very low rate, do not often infect other tissues, and in some cases, are totally inactive. Experts may refer to these tumors as “low grade” (as opposed to high grade). WDPM in one location has generally been linked to a slower, non-malignant growth, but if it appears in several places throughout the body, it is likely to indicate a more aggressive and dangerous form of cancer.
This type of tumor may be very hard to diagnose; the danger of WDPM is that it is often confused with other types of disease that present the same symptoms. It is important to see a specialist, because aggressive malignant mesothelioma tumors may feature areas of papillary cell growth creating the propensity for diagnostic mishaps and difficulties. The only way to determine a definitive diagnosis with any certainty is through a biopsy where comprehensive tissue samples are collected for lab analysis.
Treatment options for WDPM typically include the same kinds of treatments used for malignant mesothelioma, such as chemotherapy, surgery, and other forms of radiation therapy. Treatment options vary depending on the location of the papillary mesothelioma tumor. Patients who present with WDPM on the peritoneum are often times treated with cytoreductive surgery in combination with hypothermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).
The prognosis for patients with WDPM is somewhat better than other types of mesothelioma. As contrasted with other malignant mesothelioma where only 5-10% of patients survive five years after diagnosis, several patients diagnosed with WDPM have in some cases survived for decades. Although a low grade tumor is cancerous, it is less aggressive, and the person’s immune system may hold up better.
The link between asbestos exposure and papillary mesothelioma is still being debated, and as a result you may assume that your options for recovering compensation are limited. Your case may have been rejected by another law firm. Please do not assume that you are out of options until you have had the opportunity to consult with The Meso Law Firm. The experienced attorneys at Meirowitz & Wasserberg have been very successful with WDPM cases, and we can help you obtain compensation which can help with treatment, and help provide for your family. Call us today for a free, confidential consultation so that we can explore all of your options.