Question

Is small cell lung cancer a form of mesothelioma?

Answer

There are different types of lung cancer: small cell lung cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and mesothelioma. People often confuse mesothelioma with true lung cancer, especially because the cause of mesothelioma, asbestos exposure, can cause both diseases. In fact, mesothelioma is a cancer of the lung, heart, or abdominal lining.

Layers of specialized cells called mesothelial cells line the chest cavity, abdominal cavity, and the cavity around the heart. These cells also cover the outer surface of most internal organs. The tissue formed by these cells is called mesothelium.

The mesothelium helps protect the organs by producing a special lubricating fluid that allows organs to move around. For example, this fluid makes it easier for the lungs to move inside the chest during breathing.

The mesothelium of the chest is called the pleura and the mesothelium of the abdomen is known as the peritoneum. The mesothelium of the pericardial cavity (the "sac-like" space around the heart) is called the pericardium.

Tumors of the mesothelium can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). A malignant tumor of the mesothelium is called a malignant mesothelioma. Because most mesothelial tumors are cancerous, malignant mesothelioma is often simply called mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma of the lung is caused by exposure to asbestos, also called asbestos cancer. Asbestos diseases are said to follow the trail of exposure. That means that wherever people have received asbestos exposure, regardless of their trade, age, sex or race, they are at risk of cancer and other diseases.

The links below may be helpful to you in learning more about mesothelioma and other lung cancers.

Links

• Mesothelioma and other lung cancers
• Lung Cancer Types
• Lung Cancer