Benign mesothelioma is a distinct condition that shares little with malignant mesothelioma. In fact, doctors have recently started referring to this condition by another name to reduce patient confusion. However, some of those who have heard this phrase may understand it to mean that there is a form of mesothelioma that is not deadly, and this is not the case. It is important to understand the distinction between benign mesothelioma and mesothelioma in general.

Solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura; aka benign mesothelioma
The correct term that refers to the condition commonly called benign mesothelioma is “solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura.” The pleura is the lining of the lungs and the place where mesothelioma is most often found in patients. In some patients, the tumors that are first thought to be cancerous turn out to be benign, which means that they are not malignant and will not spread throughout the body. Interestingly, these fibrous tumors can be found in other locations as well. Doctors have found tumors of this nature in the abdomen of some patients.

Treatments for benign mesothelioma
As the tumors that characterize this condition are not cancerous and will not spread with the speed and damage of cancerous tumors, the treatment for benign mesothelioma is different than the treatment for mesothelioma in general. Patients who have these tumors can choose to undergo surgery if the tumors are large enough to cause symptoms or discomfort but they will not need radiation or chemotherapy afterwards.

Long-term implications of benign mesothelioma
Once the tumors have been removed, there are no specific long-term conditions or concerns that are linked to benign mesothelioma. However, the presence of these growths can be an indication of the potential for future problems in the lungs including the potential for malignant tumors. Although doctors do not understand why some patients develop malignant tumors and others develop tumors that are not cancerous, the prevailing belief is that both types of tumors are a result of asbestos exposure. As such, patients who have been diagnosed with these tumors should continue to monitor their lungs and get regular check-ups to ensure that any later issues are diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

Benign mesothelioma may be a misnomer, but mesothelioma is a serious concern. If you believe that you may have this cancer or are suffering in another way as a result of asbestos exposure, it is important to seek both medical and legal assistance in a timely manner.