Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cell type of mesothelioma, accounting for 10-15% of pleural cases. Characterized by the presence of sarcomatoid cells, this type of mesothelioma is known for its aggressive behavior, which can make treatment challenging. As the least common of the three main cell types, sarcomatoid mesothelioma stands out from the more frequently diagnosed epithelioid and biphasic mesothelioma.
When facing a sarcomatoid mesothelioma diagnosis, it is natural to feel blindsided and unsure of what comes next. However, gaining a clear understanding of this rare condition can help you to navigate your treatment journey with confidence.
Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is particularly aggressive and dangerous due to its rapid growth and tendency to spread quickly to other areas of the body. According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year survival rate for sarcomatoid mesothelioma is around 2%-8%. Although this disease can progress rapidly, there are still options available to help you manage your symptoms and slow disease progression. Additionally, emerging treatments and innovative clinical trials that target specific cancer cells offer promising opportunities to slow disease progression and improve outcomes.
This guide will explore what causes sarcomatoid mesothelioma, its different subtypes, available treatments, and legal aspects to consider for compensation. With this knowledge, you can navigate your sarcomatoid mesothelioma journey with the confidence to make informed decisions.
Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of sarcomatoid mesothelioma. When inhaled or ingested, asbestos fibers can damage the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart sac, leading to genetic mutations and the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. Over time, these abnormal cells can develop into cancerous mesothelioma cells, which can invade and damage surrounding tissues and organs.
Mesothelioma has a notoriously long latency period, typically taking between 10 to 50 years to develop after initial asbestos exposure. This means that you may not experience symptoms until decades after you were first exposed to asbestos. Early detection is critical for effective treatment and improved survival rates. If you have a known history of asbestos exposure, you should be aware of several key mesothelioma symptoms, including:
Sarcomatoid mesothelioma has several subtypes, each with slightly different characteristics and behaviors. Determining the subtype of mesothelioma is important in developing effective treatment strategies. These recognized subtypes include:
Sarcomatoid mesothelioma cell subtypes are determined through a combination of tests. A tissue sample is collected from the affected area, typically through a surgical procedure or needle biopsy. Then, doctors examine the sample under a microscope to identify the cell type and tumor structure. In many cases, a specialized stain is applied to the tissue to detect specific proteins and antigens, helping to classify the cells.
Sarcomatoid mesothelioma can be treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy to reduce symptoms and shrink tumors. However, malignant sarcomatoid cells are often difficult to control due to their resistance to certain treatment options. Additionally, sarcomatoid tumors can have unclear borders, which allows them to invade surrounding tissues and organs, making treatment more challenging. Doctors may use a combination of therapies, targeted treatments, and other treatment approaches to ensure the best possible outcome.
Treatment options are available, but for many people with sarcomatoid mesothelioma, a cure is not possible. Treatments are designed to improve your quality of life and relieve symptoms such as pain and breathing difficulties rather than curing the cancer.
If you have sarcomatoid mesothelioma, you can seek legal compensation. Asbestos and mesothelioma compensation typically covers medical expenses related to diagnosis, treatment, and care for the disease, lost wages, physical and emotional pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and more.
You can file a mesothelioma lawsuit if you can provide documentation that proves you were exposed to asbestos and have received a diagnosis of mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease. Documentation can include employment records, coworker testimony, and medical records from the medical center where you received your diagnosis. A lawyer specializing in asbestos lawsuits can help you collect the necessary documentation and guide you throughout the entire process.
The average mesothelioma settlement payouts range from $1 million to $1.4 million, while mesothelioma lawsuits can average higher verdicts. Asbestos trust fund payouts vary, but high-paying trusts award $125,00 or more. Individuals can seek compensation from more than one trust.
If you or a loved one is struggling with sarcomatoid mesothelioma, we are here to support you in seeking compensation for your suffering. Our team will guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us today to take the first step towards justice by phone at 833-997-1947 or fill out a free case evaluation form.
Rachel Ernst is a content writer at Mesothelioma Hub. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she majored in communication and minored in sociology. She hopes to create public awareness about cancer through her writing. In her free time, Rachel likes to be outdoors, watch movies, and spend time with her animals.
Mehta, K., et al. (2023). Challenging diagnosis of sarcomatoid hepatic mesothelioma: a case report with review of literature. Retrieved on June 3, 2024, from https://journals.lww.com/annals-of-medicine-and-surgery/fulltext/2023/10000/challenging_diagnosis_of_sarcomatoid_hepatic.72.aspx
Sugarbaker, P.H. (2023). Response to Nivolumab followed by complete cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC resulting in long-term survival in a patient with sarcomatoid-predominant biphasic peritoneal mesothelioma: A case report. Retrieved on June 3, 2024, from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2210261223004881
Sejben, A. et al. (2023). Highlighting the immunohistochemical differences of malignant mesothelioma subtypes via case presentations. Retrieved on June 3, 2024, from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1759-7714.14827
Brcic, L. et al. (2020). Clinical significance of histologic subtyping of malignant pleural mesothelioma. Retrieved on June 3, 2024, from https://tlcr.amegroups.org/article/view/38662/html
Harris, E.J.A. et al. (2019). Diagnosis of asbestos-related lung diseases. Retrieved on June 3, 2024, from https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17476348.2019.1568875