0:53
The Three Types of Mesothelioma: Epithelioid, Sarcomatoid, and Mixed
A mesothelioma specialist explains the three main cell types — epithelioid, sarcomatoid, and biphasic (mixed) — and why about 40% of tumors contain multiple cell types, which can affect treatment decisions and lead to misdiagnosis.
Need to talk to someone? 1-800-400-1805
Key Points From This Video
- There are three main cell-type families of mesothelioma: epithelioid, sarcomatoid, and biphasic (mixed).
- Epithelioid is the most common type and typically responds best to treatment.
- Sarcomatoid is more aggressive and harder to treat.
- About 40% of epithelioid tumors actually contain other cell types, which can affect treatment response and lead to misdiagnosis if not detected.
Important Note
This video presents medical information from a mesothelioma specialist for educational purposes. It is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Every patient's situation is unique — please consult a qualified mesothelioma physician about your specific diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis.
Video Transcript
There are many different types of cells in mesothelioma. There are three predominant families, as we call them: the epithelioid type, the sarcomatoid type, and one in the middle which we call mixed — sometimes biphasic — with two types of cells.
Interestingly enough, when we analyze our epithelioid-type mesotheliomas, about 40% of them have other types of cells within their tumor as well, leading to either mistreatment, early recurrence, or misdiagnosis.
More Videos
Watch more from our educational video library.
What Is Mesothelioma? A Physician Explains
A mesothelioma physician explains what mesothelioma is, why it is different from lung cancer, how asbestos exposure causes it in the pleura (the thin lining around the lungs), and how patients typically first present with fluid buildup and shortness of breath.
How Mesothelioma Treatment Has Evolved
A mesothelioma surgeon describes the evolution of mesothelioma care — from weekly multimodality tumor boards to combining immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgery, and why treatment approaches must evolve with each patient.
Understanding Your Mesothelioma Diagnosis: How It Is Made
A mesothelioma physician explains how the diagnosis is made through specific cell markers (WT1 and others) and next-generation sequencing testing, why there is a 30-40 year latency between asbestos exposure and diagnosis, and why most patients come in only after multiple drainings.
Client Testimonial: A Family's Mesothelioma Case Experience
A family shares their experience working with our mesothelioma attorneys after an asbestos exposure diagnosis. Hear how the legal team at Danziger & De Llano helped them navigate the process from first consultation through compensation recovery.
Have Questions About Your Mesothelioma Case?
Our experienced mesothelioma attorneys can help you understand your legal rights, document your asbestos exposure history, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Or call us: 1-800-400-1805
Related Resources
Continue learning about mesothelioma, diagnosis, treatment, and your options.
What Is Mesothelioma?
Comprehensive overview of the disease — types, symptoms, stages, and treatment options.
Diagnosis & Treatment Guide
Full guide to diagnosis, staging, treatment protocols, and finding a specialist.
Compensation Guide
Understand your legal rights and the types of compensation available to mesothelioma patients.
Compensation Estimator
Get a personalized estimate of potential mesothelioma compensation based on your situation.
Trust Fund Checker
Find which of the 60+ active asbestos trust funds may apply to your case.
Patient & Family Resources
Support resources, caregiving guides, and emotional support for families.