Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma

What is Sarcomatoid 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.

What Causes Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma?

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:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Persistent coughing
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Abdominal pain (in cases of peritoneal mesothelioma)

Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma Subtypes

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:

• Transitional: This type of mesothelioma has plump, spindle-shaped cells. Transitional mesothelioma accounts for a small percentage of cases and often has a more favorable prognosis compared to other subtypes.
• Lymphohistiocytoid: This rare form of mesothelioma accounts for less than 1% of diagnoses. It typically forms in the pleura, the lining surrounding the lungs, and is composed of a diverse range of cells, including lymphocytes, histiocytes, and mesothelial cells. Due to its rarity, treatment options for this subtype are limited.
• Desmoplastic: Desmoplastic mesothelioma is the most common subtype, accounting for about 5% of all diagnoses. It grows quickly and often has a poor prognosis. Desmoplastic mesothelioma often invades surrounding tissues and organs, making surgical treatment options difficult.

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.

Is Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma Curable?

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.

Can I Seek Legal Compensation if I Have Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma?

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.