{"id":99,"date":"2017-05-08T21:05:07","date_gmt":"2017-05-09T01:05:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/?page_id=99"},"modified":"2025-12-23T15:45:02","modified_gmt":"2025-12-23T20:45:02","slug":"cell-types","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/mesothelioma\/cell-types\/","title":{"rendered":"Mesothelioma Cell Types"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2>What Are the Types of Mesothelioma Cancer Cells?<\/h2>\n<p>Cells in the mesothelium, which is the lining of important body parts like the abdomen, lungs, testicles, or heart, can turn into cancer cells if they are exposed to asbestos. These cancerous cells are known as <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/\">malignant mesothelioma<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Here are the three main mesothelioma cell types:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Epithelioid<\/strong>: The epithelioid cell type makes up more than 50% of mesothelioma cases, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Thankfully, it is also the easiest mesothelioma cell type to treat and has a better prognosis and <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/prognosis\/survival-rate\/\">survival rate<\/a> than the other cell types.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Sarcomatoid:<\/strong> These rare mesothelioma cells are recognized by their large size and spindle shape. Only 10-20% of patients have sarcomatoid tumors. It is the hardest type of mesothelioma cell to treat and has the poorest prognosis<\/li>\n<li><strong>Biphasic:<\/strong> Biphasic tumors contain both the sarcomatoid and epithelioid mesothelioma cell types and account for 20-30% of cases. If a patient has more epithelial cells than sarcomatoid cells, their cancer will normally respond better to treatment.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-29171\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/mesothelioma-cell-types.png\" alt=\"Mesothelioma Cell Types\" width=\"681\" height=\"343\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/mesothelioma-cell-types.png 681w, https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/mesothelioma-cell-types-300x151.png 300w, https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/mesothelioma-cell-types-350x175.png 350w, https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/mesothelioma-cell-types-445x225.png 445w, https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/mesothelioma-cell-types-199x100.png 199w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Doctors diagnose mesothelioma cell types by removing a small tissue sample from the affected area and examining it under a microscope. Each mesothelioma cell type responds differently to specific treatments, so correctly identifying the cell type is key to improving your <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/prognosis\/\">mesothelioma prognosis<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Get our <strong>Free Mesothelioma Guide <\/strong>for valuable information to help you navigate your diagnosis and connect with top specialists.<\/p>\n<div data-vqueid=\"1361\" class=\"widget widget_oscar-vque default image-right has-img\"><style type=\"text\/css\" data-style=\"default\">.widget_oscar-vque.default{margin:60px auto;max-width:315px}.widget_oscar-vque.default:first-child{margin-top:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a{background:#2F293D;display:block;padding:20px;border-radius:10px;color:#fff;text-decoration:none}.widget_oscar-vque.default img{margin:0 auto 20px;max-width:150px;width:100%}.widget_oscar-vque.default .vque-content{font-size:16px;text-align:center}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.subheading{display:block;line-height:1;font-size:14px;margin-bottom:5px}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.heading{font-size:20px;display:block;margin:0 0 25px}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul{font-size:16px;text-align:left;list-style:none;max-width:265px;line-height:1.4;margin:15px auto 25px}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul li{padding-left:28px;margin-bottom:10px}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul li:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul li:before{font-family:\"mesohope\" !important;font-display:swap;speak:none;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;font-variant:normal;text-transform:none;line-height:1;-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased;-moz-osx-font-smoothing:grayscale;content:\"\\e904\";border:none;position:absolute;left:0;top:0;background:#0FAEBF;width:20px;height:20px;border-radius:20px;line-height:20px;text-align:center;font-size:12px}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.button.arrow{width:100%}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.widget_oscar-vque.default{max-width:620px}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a{padding:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a>div{display:block;display:flex;align-items:center;flex-wrap:wrap;flex-direction:row-reverse}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a>div>div{padding:0 25px 0 0;width:41%}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a .vque-content{width:59%;padding:30px;text-align:left}.widget_oscar-vque.default img{max-width:90%;margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.subheading{font-size:16px}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.heading{font-size:24px;margin:0 0 16px}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul{max-width:none}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.button.arrow{width:auto}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div{display:block;position:relative;overflow:hidden}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div img{max-width:100%}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div>div{float:left}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div>div:first-child{width:27%;padding:30px}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div>div.vque-content{width:73%;padding-left:0}}<\/style><a href=\"\/mesothelioma-guide\/\" title=\"Get Your Free 2026 Mesothelioma Guide\" class=\"cte\" data-ce-category=\"In-Content Ads\" data-ce-label=\"Get Your Free 2026 Mesothelioma Guide Ad\" data-desktop-image=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical.png\"><div><div><div class=\"image-fade\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"296\" height=\"290\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical.png\" class=\"attachment-Medium size-Medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"Mesothelioma Guide Images\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical.png 296w, https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical-55x55.png 55w, https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical-102x100.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 296px) 100vw, 296px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vque-content\"><strong class=\"heading\">Get Your Free 2026 Mesothelioma Guide<\/strong><ul>\n<li>Symptoms &amp; staging<\/li>\n<li>Average prognosis<\/li>\n<li>Life-extending treatments<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong class=\"button arrow\" title=\"Get Your Free Guide\">Get Your Free Guide<\/strong><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div>\n<h2 id=\"epithelioid\">Epithelioid Cells<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_20749\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20749\" style=\"width: 300px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-20749 size-medium\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/epithelioid-cells-300x175.png\" alt=\"An illustration of microscopic epithelioid mesothelioma cells\" width=\"300\" height=\"179\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-20749\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Illustration of epithelioid cells under a microscope<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Epithelioid cells are the most common mesothelioma cell type. <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/cell-types\/epithelioid\/\">Epithelioid mesothelioma cells<\/a> are characterized by a single nucleus, a rectangular shape, and slow growth. Oncologists (cancer doctors) also refer to this cell type as epithelial mesothelioma.<\/p>\n<p>With epithelioid mesothelioma, the tumor cells tend to grow in a pattern of clusters or nests, which may appear as masses of cells when viewed under a microscope. The<strong> clumping together <\/strong>of cancer cells is a key feature of this cell type.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, there are several subtypes of epithelioid mesothelioma, each with its own characteristics and level of aggressiveness. Knowing these differences helps <a href=\"\/treatment\/doctors\/\">mesothelioma doctors<\/a> tailor the most effective treatment plan for each patient.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>\u201cEach cell type responds differently to treatment, which is why it\u2019s important to know which type of cells have been detected at diagnosis.\u201d<br \/>\n\u2013 Cancer Treatment Centers of America<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<h3>Epithelioid Cell Prognosis<\/h3>\n<p>Patients diagnosed with epithelioid cell type usually have a more favorable mesothelioma prognosis.<\/p>\n<p>The median overall prognosis for epithelioid mesothelioma is<strong> 12 to 26 months<\/strong>, according to a report published in <em>Modern Pathology<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>However, a patient\u2019s mesothelioma prognosis is also affected by other factors like the stage of the cancer when it\u2019s found, their age and overall health, and where the cancer develops in the body. This is why it\u2019s important to see a doctor as soon as possible to get an accurate <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/diagnosis\/\">mesothelioma diagnosis<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Treatments for Epithelioid Mesothelioma<\/h3>\n<p>Epithelioid mesothelioma treatment often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The specific treatment plan depends on factors like the <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/stages\/\">stage of the cancer<\/a>, the patient&#8217;s overall health, and if (and how far) their tumors have spread.<\/p>\n<p>Learn more about common <a href=\"\/treatment\/\">mesothelioma treatments<\/a> for epithelioid cells below.<\/p>\n<h4>Surgery<\/h4>\n<p>Surgery is usually the first treatment option for epithelioid mesothelioma. Because epithelioid cells spread slowly, tumors are often contained to one area of the body. However, patients who are older or who have health issues may not qualify for <a href=\"\/treatment\/surgery\/\">mesothelioma surgery<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h4>Chemotherapy<\/h4>\n<p>During chemotherapy, cancer-fighting medications are administered orally or through an IV. It\u2019s not as effective as tumor-removing surgery but can destroy or shrink epithelioid cells, which helps slow down cancer progression.<\/p>\n<p>A combination of medications, including pemetrexed (Alimta<sup>\u00ae<\/sup>) and cisplatin or carboplatin, is the most common <a href=\"\/treatment\/chemotherapy\/\">chemotherapy treatment<\/a> for epithelioid mesothelioma.<\/p>\n<div class=\"did-you-know icon-bell\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.did-you-know{background:#F3F2F0;border-radius:10px;margin:40px 0;padding:20px 20px 20px 80px;position:relative}.did-you-know:before{position:absolute;left:20px;top:20px;width:45px;height:45px;background:#0FAEBF;border-radius:50px;color:#fff;text-align:center;line-height:45px;font-size:27px}.did-you-know .heading{font-size:24px;color:#100134;padding:10px 0;display:block;margin:0 0 5px}.did-you-know h2,.did-you-know .h2,.did-you-know h3,.did-you-know .h3{font-size:24px;line-height:1.14}@media screen and (min-width: 1024px){.did-you-know{padding:25px 25px 25px 90px}.did-you-know:before{left:25px;top:25px}.did-you-know .heading{padding:8px 0}.did-you-know h2,.did-you-know .h2,.did-you-know h3,.did-you-know .h3{font-size:24px;line-height:1.14}}<\/style><strong class=\"heading\">Did You Know?<\/strong><p>According to data from the National Cancer Database (NCDB), 35% of patients with epithelioid <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/pleural\/\">pleural mesothelioma<\/a> were <strong>still alive 2 years later <\/strong>when treated with chemotherapy. Just 8% of patients with the sarcomatoid cell type were alive 2 years after receiving the same treatment.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h4>Radiation<\/h4>\n<p>During <a href=\"\/treatment\/radiation\/\">mesothelioma radiation therapy<\/a>, electrons are aimed at the tumor to prevent epithelial cells from multiplying.<\/p>\n<p>Radiation therapy is usually combined with other treatment methods like chemotherapy and surgery, but it can also be used on its own to reduce pain in patients diagnosed with pleural and <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/peritoneal\/\">peritoneal mesothelioma<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Mesothelioma Hope has relationships with top doctors nationwide who can properly diagnose and treat all three mesothelioma cell types. Get connected with a specialist near you using our <strong>Free Doctor Match<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"25223\" class=\"one-off-25223 widget widget_oscar-vque one-off\" data-vqueid=\"25223\"><style type=\"text\/css\" data-style=\"one-off\">.one-off-25223{margin:60px auto}.one-off-25223 a{box-shadow:0 4px 4px 0 rgba(0,0,0,.25);display:block;background:#e4f4f6;padding:20px 25px 200px;text-decoration:none;color:inherit;position:relative;overflow:hidden;max-width:360px;margin:0 auto}.one-off-25223 a::before{background:#0FAEBF;border-radius:50% 50% 0 0;content:'';position:absolute;bottom:0;height:19%;width:135%;left:-60px;z-index:0}.one-off-25223 .vque-content,.one-off-25223 .image-wrap{z-index:1;position:relative}.one-off-25223 .image-wrap{width:100%;position:absolute;left:-10px;bottom:-15px}.one-off-25223 .image-wrap img{position:absolute;bottom:0;width:100%;max-width:unset;left:0}.one-off-25223 .heading{font-size:27px;line-height:33px;text-align:center;display:block;max-width:340px;margin:5px auto 25px}.one-off-25223 ul{list-style:none;margin:-10px auto 22px;text-align:left;font-size:16px;line-height:26px}.one-off-25223 ul li{margin:0 0 15px;position:relative;padding-left:35px}.one-off-25223 ul li::before{font-family:\"mesohope\"!important;speak:none;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;font-variant:normal;text-transform:none;line-height:1;content:\"\\e904\";background:#0FAEBF;width:21px;height:21px;display:block;position:absolute;left:0;top:4px;border-radius:50%;color:#fff;font-size:11px;text-align:center;line-height:21px}.one-off-25223 p{text-align:center}.one-off-25223 .button{padding:12px 16px;display:block}@media screen and (min-width:768px){.one-off-25223 a{max-width:620px;padding:30px 30px 35px;border-radius:0 0 4px 4px}.one-off-25223 a::before{border-radius:50%;height:155%;width:150%;right:-550px;left:unset;bottom:-295px}.one-off-25223 .heading{text-align:left;margin:2px 0 25px;max-width:unset;font-size:24px}.one-off-25223 ul{margin:-7px 0 30px;max-width:365px;line-height:23px}.one-off-25223 ul li::before{top:1px}.one-off-25223 .image-wrap{max-width:unset;position:absolute;right:-25px;bottom:-35px;margin:0 0 -2px;left:unset;width:380px}.one-off-25223 .image-wrap img{position:relative;bottom:0;left:0;width:380px}.one-off-25223 .button{display:inline-block;padding:14px 25px}.one-off-25223 p{text-align:left}}@media screen and (min-width:1150px){.one-off-25223 a{padding:30px}}<\/style><a href=\"\/get-matched\/\" title=\"Get Matched With a Mesothelioma Doctor\" class=\"cte\" data-ce-category=\"In-Content Ads\" data-ce-label=\"Get Matched With a Mesothelioma Doctor Ad\"><div>\r\n    <div class=\"vque-content\">\r\n        <strong class=\"heading\">Get Matched With a Mesothelioma Doctor<\/strong>\r\n        <ul>\r\n            <li>Find top specialists near you<\/li>\r\n            <li>Seek compensation for travel & care<\/li>\r\n            <li>Get medical guidance<\/li>\r\n        <\/ul>\r\n        <p><strong class=\"button arrow\" title=\"Get Matched Now\">Get Matched Now<\/strong><\/p>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"image-wrap\"><img decoding=\"async\"  src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Doctors-ad.png\" alt=\"Get Matched With a Mesothelioma Doctor\" class=\"lazyload\" ><\/div>\r\n<\/div><\/a><\/div>\n<h2 id=\"sarcomatoid\">Sarcomatoid Cells<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_20750\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20750\" style=\"width: 300px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-20750 size-medium\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/sarcomatoid-cells-300x175.png\" alt=\"An illustration of microscopic sarcomatoid mesothelioma cells\" width=\"300\" height=\"179\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-20750\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Illustration of sarcomatoid cells under a microscope<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Sarcomatoid cells are much more aggressive than epithelioid cells. Unlike epithelioid cells, <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/cell-types\/sarcomatoid\/\">sarcomatoid cells<\/a> don\u2019t clump into masses. Instead, they create small nodules that can easily break off from the primary tumor and spread through the patient\u2019s lymph nodes and blood vessels.<\/p>\n<p>The sarcomatoid cell type can be challenging to diagnose accurately. This is because these mesothelioma cancer cells can look like other types of spindle-shaped cells found in certain sarcomas (cancers that develop in the bones and soft tissues).<\/p>\n<p>Further, sarcomatoid cells also have different subtypes depending on where the cancer is found in the body. An accurate diagnosis is crucial since your sarcomatoid cell subtype can impact your treatment options and prognosis.<\/p>\n<h3>Sarcomatoid Cell Prognosis<\/h3>\n<p>Because the sarcomatoid cell type is so hard to diagnose and treat, it has the worst prognosis of all three types. Patients with this cell type have a<strong> median survival of 5.5 months,<\/strong> according to a 2019 article published in <em>The Annals of Thoracic Surgery.<\/em><\/p>\n<h3>Treatments for Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma<\/h3>\n<p>There may be treatment options available to increase a patient&#8217;s <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/prognosis\/life-expectancy\/\">mesothelioma life expectancy<\/a> if they\u2019re diagnosed before their sarcomatoid tumors have metastasized (spread) to distant organs.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Treatments for this cell type include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Chemotherapy.<\/strong> A study published in <em>Scientific Reports<\/em> found that malignant pleural mesothelioma patients with this cell type lived for <strong>10.7 months on average<\/strong> when treated with chemotherapy.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Immunotherapy.<\/strong> Some patients with sarcomatoid tumors have shown positive responses to immunotherapy. <a href=\"\/treatment\/immunotherapy\/\">Immunotherapy medications<\/a> like Opdivo<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> (nivolumab) and Yervoy<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> (ipilimumab) block proteins that cancer cells use to sneak past the immune system, allowing immune cells to recognize and attack the cancer cells.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Surgery.<\/strong> Sarcomatoid mesothelioma patients whose cancer is localized to one area and who are in good overall health may be eligible to undergo tumor-removing surgeries.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Since the sarcomatoid cell type is so aggressive and challenging to manage, doctors may also recommend that these patients enroll in <a href=\"\/treatment\/clinical-trials\/\">mesothelioma clinical trials<\/a> testing new or novel treatments.<\/p>\n<div class=\"callout-shortcode\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.callout-shortcode{background:#EDF8F9;border-radius:0 10px 10px 0;padding:20px 20px 20px 24px;margin:40px 0;max-width:860px;position:relative}.callout-shortcode:before{content:\" \";position:absolute;top:0;bottom:0;width:4px;height:100%;left:0;background:linear-gradient(180deg, #0FAEBF 0%, #EDF8F9 100%)}.callout-shortcode .callout-shortcode-heading{color:#100134;font-size:22px;display:block;margin:0 0 15px}.callout-shortcode:first-child{margin-top:0}.callout-shortcode:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.callout-shortcode .img-wrap{margin-bottom:20px}.callout-shortcode.hope>strong{padding-top:17px;padding-bottom:15px;padding-left:74px}.callout-shortcode.hope .img-wrap{left:22px;position:absolute;top:20px;width:59px}.callout-shortcode.hope .img-wrap:before{background:#fff url(\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/mh-icon-65.png);background-position:center;background-repeat:no-repeat;background-size:70%;border-radius:30px;bottom:-10px;content:\"\";display:block;height:30px;position:absolute;right:-10px;width:30px}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.callout-shortcode{padding:25px 25px 25px 34px}.callout-shortcode .callout-shortcode-heading{font-size:24px}.callout-shortcode .img-wrap{margin-bottom:0}.callout-shortcode.has-img{min-height:170px;padding-left:175px}.callout-shortcode.has-img .img-wrap{position:absolute;left:29px;top:25px;width:119px}.callout-shortcode.hope.has-img{padding-left:170px}.callout-shortcode.hope>strong{padding:0}.callout-shortcode.hope .img-wrap{width:109px}.callout-shortcode.hope .img-wrap:before{background-size:66%;bottom:-15px;height:42px;width:42px}}<\/style><strong class=\"callout-shortcode-heading\">Learn More About Clinical Trials &amp; Treatments<\/strong><div class=\"content\"><p><a href=\"\/mesothelioma-guide\/\">Request our Free Mesothelioma Guide today<\/a> and have it shipped to your door overnight.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h2 id=\"biphasic\">Biphasic Cells<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_20748\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20748\" style=\"width: 300px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-20748 size-medium\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/biphasic-cells-300x175.png\" alt=\"An illustration of microscopic biphasic mesothelioma cells\" width=\"300\" height=\"179\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-20748\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Illustration of biphasic cell types under a microscope<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Tumors that contain a combination of sarcomatoid and epithelioid cells are called biphasic tumors, or sometimes mixed mesothelioma tumors.<\/p>\n<p>A common method for identifying <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/cell-types\/biphasic\/\">biphasic mesothelioma tumors<\/a> is called immunohistochemistry. This involves coating cell walls with dye to make the proteins within cells more visible. A mesothelioma doctor can see which cell type is dominant based on these proteins.<\/p>\n<h3>Biphasic Cell Prognosis<\/h3>\n<p><strong>The median survival for biphasic mesothelioma patients is 10 months<\/strong>, but some patients live longer depending on the treatments they receive. Which mesothelioma cells are dominant will affect each individual patient\u2019s prognosis.<\/p>\n<h3>Treatments for Biphasic Mesothelioma<\/h3>\n<p>Which therapies will be used to treat biphasic mesothelioma depends on the ratio of epithelioid to sarcomatoid cells, as well as where the cancer has developed, how far it has spread, and the age and overall health of the patient.<\/p>\n<p>A case study published in the <em>International Journal of Surgery Case Reports<\/em> shows the potential benefits of <strong>combining immunotherapy with surgery and chemotherapy<\/strong> in patients with biphasic mesothelioma.<\/p>\n<p>According to the case study, presented by top mesothelioma specialist Dr. Paul Sugarbaker, a 39-year-old woman with sarcomatoid-dominant peritoneal mesothelioma received the immunotherapy drug Opdivo prior to <a href=\"\/treatment\/surgery\/cytoreduction-hipec\/\">cytoreductive surgery with heated chemotherapy<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"blockquote-w-image \"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Paul-Sugarbaker-MD-img.png\" alt=\"\" \/><blockquote><p>\u201cFive years after her diagnosis and 4 years after her cytoreductive surgery, <strong>the patient remains free of disease,<\/strong> without disability, and eating a regular diet.\u201d<\/p>\n<footer>&ndash;<cite>  Dr. Paul Sugarbaker, mesothelioma specialist and researcher<\/cite><\/footer><\/blockquote><style type=\"text\/css\">.blockquote-w-image{position:relative;margin:40px auto}.blockquote-w-image blockquote{background:none;border-left:none;padding:25px;margin-top:0;padding-bottom:0;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.blockquote-w-image blockquote footer cite{font-size:inherit}.blockquote-w-image blockquote p{margin-bottom:0}.blockquote-w-image img{width:100px;border:none;border-radius:100%;box-shadow:none;position:relative;margin:0 auto}.blockquote-w-image.alternative{margin:60px auto}.blockquote-w-image.alternative blockquote{padding:25px 25px 25px 80px;padding-bottom:25px;background-color:#E4F4F6}.blockquote-w-image.alternative img{position:absolute;left:20px;top:25px;z-index:1;width:50px;border:1px solid #fff;box-shadow:0 0 10px rgba(34,34,34,0.2);border-radius:100%}.blockquote-w-image.with-border{background:none;border-left:4px solid #0FAEBF}.blockquote-w-image.with-border blockquote{background:none;border-radius:0;padding:10px 25px}.blockquote-w-image.with-border blockquote footer cite{font-size:inherit}.blockquote-w-image blockquote:before{display:none}@media screen and (min-width: 769px){.blockquote-w-image img{position:absolute;left:0;top:0}.blockquote-w-image blockquote{padding:0 25px 0 125px;min-height:90px}}@media screen and (min-width: 1024px){.blockquote-w-image.alternative blockquote{padding-left:105px}.blockquote-w-image.alternative blockquote footer cite{font-size:16px}.entry-content .blockquote-w-image.alternative img{width:60px;left:25px}}<\/style><\/div>\n<p>The report is notable as it represents a rare case of long-term survival with the biphasic mesothelioma cell type.<\/p>\n<p>Learn how specialized treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy can improve your prognosis with biphasic mesothelioma. Get our <strong>Free Mesothelioma Guide<\/strong> to explore your options and read about top doctors.<\/p>\n<div data-vqueid=\"1361\" class=\"widget widget_oscar-vque default image-right has-img\"><style type=\"text\/css\" data-style=\"default\">.widget_oscar-vque.default{margin:60px auto;max-width:315px}.widget_oscar-vque.default:first-child{margin-top:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a{background:#2F293D;display:block;padding:20px;border-radius:10px;color:#fff;text-decoration:none}.widget_oscar-vque.default img{margin:0 auto 20px;max-width:150px;width:100%}.widget_oscar-vque.default .vque-content{font-size:16px;text-align:center}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.subheading{display:block;line-height:1;font-size:14px;margin-bottom:5px}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.heading{font-size:20px;display:block;margin:0 0 25px}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul{font-size:16px;text-align:left;list-style:none;max-width:265px;line-height:1.4;margin:15px auto 25px}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul li{padding-left:28px;margin-bottom:10px}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul li:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul li:before{font-family:\"mesohope\" !important;font-display:swap;speak:none;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;font-variant:normal;text-transform:none;line-height:1;-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased;-moz-osx-font-smoothing:grayscale;content:\"\\e904\";border:none;position:absolute;left:0;top:0;background:#0FAEBF;width:20px;height:20px;border-radius:20px;line-height:20px;text-align:center;font-size:12px}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.button.arrow{width:100%}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.widget_oscar-vque.default{max-width:620px}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a{padding:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a>div{display:block;display:flex;align-items:center;flex-wrap:wrap;flex-direction:row-reverse}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a>div>div{padding:0 25px 0 0;width:41%}.widget_oscar-vque.default>a .vque-content{width:59%;padding:30px;text-align:left}.widget_oscar-vque.default img{max-width:90%;margin-bottom:0}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.subheading{font-size:16px}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.heading{font-size:24px;margin:0 0 16px}.widget_oscar-vque.default ul{max-width:none}.widget_oscar-vque.default strong.button.arrow{width:auto}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div{display:block;position:relative;overflow:hidden}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div img{max-width:100%}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div>div{float:left}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div>div:first-child{width:27%;padding:30px}.widget_oscar-vque.default.image-left>a>div>div.vque-content{width:73%;padding-left:0}}<\/style><a href=\"\/mesothelioma-guide\/\" title=\"Get Your Free 2026 Mesothelioma Guide\" class=\"cte\" data-ce-category=\"In-Content Ads\" data-ce-label=\"Get Your Free 2026 Mesothelioma Guide Ad\" data-desktop-image=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical.png\"><div><div><div class=\"image-fade\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"296\" height=\"290\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical.png\" class=\"attachment-Medium size-Medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"Mesothelioma Guide Images\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical.png 296w, https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical-55x55.png 55w, https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/guide-image-vertical-102x100.png 102w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 296px) 100vw, 296px\" \/><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vque-content\"><strong class=\"heading\">Get Your Free 2026 Mesothelioma Guide<\/strong><ul>\n<li>Symptoms &amp; staging<\/li>\n<li>Average prognosis<\/li>\n<li>Life-extending treatments<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong class=\"button arrow\" title=\"Get Your Free Guide\">Get Your Free Guide<\/strong><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div>\n<h2>How Is Cell Type Determined?<\/h2>\n<p>The broad term for studying any type of tissue is called histology. <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/diagnosis\/histology\/\">Histology<\/a> is used in every type of cancer diagnosis, including mesothelioma.<\/p>\n<p>Mesothelioma histology is very important when diagnosing and treating this cancer. By determining which mesothelioma cell types are present, doctors can create specialized treatment plans that give patients the best chance of becoming long-term survivors.<\/p>\n<p>Testing for mesothelioma usually begins with a physical exam along with X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans of the chest or abdomen. If those tests show areas of potential concern, the doctor will order a biopsy. <strong>A <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/diagnosis\/biopsy\/\">mesothelioma biopsy<\/a> is the only way to confirm a diagnosis.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>During a biopsy, a sample of tissue or fluid is taken and sent to a pathology lab, where it\u2019s examined under a microscope. A pathologist can then determine if there are mesothelioma cells, and if so, which type of cells are present.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"diagnosis\">We Can Help Patients With All Mesothelioma Cell Types<\/h2>\n<p>No matter which cell type you or a loved one is diagnosed with, Mesothelioma Hope can help.<\/p>\n<p>Since mesothelioma cells can be misdiagnosed as other cancers, it\u2019s critical to find a doctor who specializes in this type of cancer. A mesothelioma doctor is best equipped to provide an accurate diagnosis and tailor treatment to your cell type.<\/p>\n<p>Call us at <a href=\"tel:+18666088933\" title=\"Click to call (866) 608-8933\" class=\"in-content-tel-link\" data-ce-category=\"Click to Call\" data-ce-label=\"(866) 608-8933\">(866) 608-8933<\/a> or request our <a href=\"\/mesothelioma-guide\/\">Free Mesothelioma Guide<\/a> to get help confirming your diagnosis and finding the right treatment for your cell type.<\/p>\n<div class=\"faq-wrap\"><h2 class=\"faq-wrap-heading\">Mesothelioma Cell Types FAQs<\/h2><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"1\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">What are the cells of mesothelioma?<\/h3><div><p>There are three main types of mesothelioma cells, called histological cell types:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Epithelioid (most common, easier to treat)<\/li>\n<li>Sarcomatoid (rare, more aggressive)<\/li>\n<li>Biphasic (a mix of epithelioid and sarcomatoid)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Each mesothelioma cell type behaves differently and responds in its own way to treatment.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"2\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">What are the different types of mesothelial cells?<\/h3><div><p>Mesothelioma is classified into three main histological types based on the appearance of the cancer cells under a microscope.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The three cell types are:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Epithelioid (cells grow in sheets or tubules)<\/li>\n<li>Sarcomatoid (cells are spindle-shaped)<\/li>\n<li>Biphasic (combination of epithelioid and sarcomatoid cells)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"3\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">What is the least aggressive mesothelioma cell type?<\/h3><div><p>The <strong>epithelioid cell type<\/strong> is generally considered to be the least aggressive mesothelioma cell type.<\/p>\n<p>This subtype tends to grow more slowly and respond better to treatment compared to the other subtypes, which are sarcomatoid and biphasic. Because of this, the prognosis for epithelioid mesothelioma is typically better, with higher survival rates.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"4\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">What are the rare mesothelial cells?<\/h3><div><p>The <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/cell-types\/rare-cell-subtypes\/\">rare cell types of mesothelioma<\/a> are:<\/p>\n<\/p>\n<ul class='columns-2'>\n<li>Adenomatoid<\/li>\n<li>Cystic<\/li>\n<li>Deciduoid<\/li>\n<li>Desmoplastic<\/li>\n<li>Lymphohistiocytoid<\/li>\n<li>Papillary<\/li>\n<li>Signet ring<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\n<p>Identifying these rare subtypes is important because they can affect treatment and prognosis. Some rare mesothelioma subtypes may grow more slowly or respond better to certain therapies.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"5\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">What cells does malignant mesothelioma affect?<\/h3><div><p>Malignant mesothelioma affects healthy <a href=\"\/mesothelioma\/mesothelial-cells\/\">mesothelial cells<\/a> that line the inside of the chest, abdomen, and the space around the heart.<\/p>\n<p>Mesothelioma cancer develops when these cells mutate and start to grow and divide uncontrollably.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"6\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">Is mesothelioma small cell or non-small cell?<\/h3><div><p>Mesothelioma is not <a href=\"\/cancer\/lung-cancer\/\">lung cancer<\/a>. Small cell and non-small cell are categories used only for lung cancer. Mesothelioma is a different type of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, or testes. It has its own unique characteristics, treatments, and average prognosis.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"faq\" data-faq=\"7\"><h3 class=\"faq-heading\">What is the cell of origin of mesothelioma?<\/h3><div><p>Mesothelioma originates from special cells called mesothelial cells that line organs like the lungs and abdomen. When these cells get damaged from asbestos exposure, they can turn into cancer.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"\/asbestos\/\">Asbestos<\/a> is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in various industries for its fire-resistant properties.<\/p>\n<p>Unknowingly inhaling or ingesting asbestos can cause inflammation and DNA damage to the cells over time, eventually leading to mesothelioma.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"What are the cells of mesothelioma?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;There are three main types of mesothelioma cells, called histological cell types:&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;ul&gt;\n&lt;li&gt;Epithelioid (most common, easier to treat)&lt;\/li&gt;\n&lt;li&gt;Sarcomatoid (rare, more aggressive)&lt;\/li&gt;\n&lt;li&gt;Biphasic (a mix of epithelioid and sarcomatoid)&lt;\/li&gt;\n&lt;\/ul&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;Each mesothelioma cell type behaves differently and responds in its own way to treatment.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}},{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"What are the different types of mesothelial cells?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;Mesothelioma is classified into three main histological types based on the appearance of the cancer cells under a microscope.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;The three cell types are:&lt;\/strong&gt;&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;ul&gt;\n&lt;li&gt;Epithelioid (cells grow in sheets or tubules)&lt;\/li&gt;\n&lt;li&gt;Sarcomatoid (cells are spindle-shaped)&lt;\/li&gt;\n&lt;li&gt;Biphasic (combination of epithelioid and sarcomatoid cells)&lt;\/li&gt;\n&lt;\/ul&gt;\n\"}},{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"What is the least aggressive mesothelioma cell type?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;The &lt;strong&gt;epithelioid cell type&lt;\/strong&gt; is generally considered to be the least aggressive mesothelioma cell type.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;This subtype tends to grow more slowly and respond better to treatment compared to the other subtypes, which are sarcomatoid and biphasic. Because of this, the prognosis for epithelioid mesothelioma is typically better, with higher survival rates.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}},{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"What are the rare mesothelial cells?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;The rare cell types of mesothelioma are:&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;ul class='columns-2'&gt;\n&lt;li&gt;Adenomatoid&lt;\/li&gt;\n&lt;li&gt;Cystic&lt;\/li&gt;\n&lt;li&gt;Deciduoid&lt;\/li&gt;\n&lt;li&gt;Desmoplastic&lt;\/li&gt;\n&lt;li&gt;Lymphohistiocytoid&lt;\/li&gt;\n&lt;li&gt;Papillary&lt;\/li&gt;\n&lt;li&gt;Signet ring&lt;\/li&gt;\n&lt;\/ul&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;Identifying these rare subtypes is important because they can affect treatment and prognosis. Some rare mesothelioma subtypes may grow more slowly or respond better to certain therapies.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}},{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"What cells does malignant mesothelioma affect?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;Malignant mesothelioma affects healthy mesothelial cells that line the inside of the chest, abdomen, and the space around the heart.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;Mesothelioma cancer develops when these cells mutate and start to grow and divide uncontrollably.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}},{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"Is mesothelioma small cell or non-small cell?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;Mesothelioma is not lung cancer. Small cell and non-small cell are categories used only for lung cancer. Mesothelioma is a different type of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, or testes. It has its own unique characteristics, treatments, and average prognosis.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}},{\"@type\": \"Question\",\"name\": \"What is the cell of origin of mesothelioma?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\": \"Answer\",\"text\": \"&lt;p&gt;Mesothelioma originates from special cells called mesothelial cells that line organs like the lungs and abdomen. When these cells get damaged from asbestos exposure, they can turn into cancer.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in various industries for its fire-resistant properties.&lt;\/p&gt;\n&lt;p&gt;Unknowingly inhaling or ingesting asbestos can cause inflammation and DNA damage to the cells over time, eventually leading to mesothelioma.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\"}}]}<\/script><style type=\"text\/css\">.faq-wrap{background:#E4F4F6;padding:20px 15px;margin:40px -15px}.faq-wrap:first-child{margin-top:0}.faq-wrap:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.faq-wrap .faq{background:#fff;padding:15px;border-radius:10px;box-shadow:0px 20px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.03);margin:15px 0 0 0}.faq-wrap .faq:first-child{margin-top:0}.faq-wrap .faq .faq-heading{color:#100134;font-size:21px;margin-bottom:15px}.faq-wrap .faq p{margin-bottom:20px;line-height:1.5}.faq-wrap .faq p:last-child{margin-bottom:0}.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more{color:#248AFF;display:block;padding-right:17px;text-align:right;position:relative;line-height:1}.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more:visited{color:#248AFF}.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more:visited:hover,.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more:hover{color:#34d}.faq-wrap .faq .learn-more:after{font-family:\"mesohope\" !important;speak:none;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;font-variant:normal;text-transform:none;line-height:1;-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased;-moz-osx-font-smoothing:grayscale;content:\"\\e905\";position:absolute;right:0;top:3px}h2.faq-wrap-heading{margin-bottom:25px}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.faq-wrap{padding:25px 15px}}@media screen and (min-width: 1024px){.faq-wrap{border-radius:10px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;padding:25px}.faq-wrap .faq{padding:25px}.faq-heading{font-size:24px}}<\/style><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What Are the Types of Mesothelioma Cancer Cells? Cells in the mesothelium, which is the lining of important body parts like the abdomen, lungs, testicles, or heart, can turn into cancer cells if they are exposed to asbestos. These cancerous cells are known as malignant mesothelioma. Here are the three main mesothelioma cell types: Epithelioid:&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":49,"featured_media":18789,"parent":17,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-99","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/99","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/49"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=99"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/99\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/17"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/18789"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=99"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}