Epithelioid Mesothelioma
Epithelioid mesothelioma is the most common mesothelioma cell type, accounting for more than half of cases. It is also the most treatable cell type.
Written by Jenna Campagna, RN
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Important Facts About Epithelioid Mesothelioma
- Epithelioid mesothelioma is a frequent cell type for this cancer. It’s diagnosed in 70% of cases.
- All treatment options are available for epithelioid mesothelioma.
- Patients with this cell type have promising survival rates following surgery.
What Is Epithelioid Mesothelioma?

Epithelioid Cell Type
Epithelioid mesothelioma is the result of healthy epithelial cells mutating into cancerous cells. Epithelial cells can be irritated and genetically altered by asbestos.
Upon entering the body, asbestos fibers can lodge into cells along the mesothelium, which lines the lungs, abdomen and heart. The mesothelium is made up of epithelial cells.
Patients with epithelioid mesothelioma often have a better prognosis and more treatment options than people with sarcomatoid or biphasic mesothelioma.
Characteristics of Epithelioid Mesothelioma Cells
Last Edited: February 26, 2021.