The second most common type of mesothelioma is called biphasic mesothelioma. Accounting for roughly 20 to 40 percent of all mesothelioma cases, biphasic mesothelioma tumors are composed of both epithelioid and sarcomatoid cells. Instead of appearing as an even mixture of cells, these cells are usually arranged in groups within a tumor. Because of this factor, several samples are taken from different locations within a tumor during the biopsy, which is done to ensure a correct diagnosis is made.
In most cases, those diagnosed with biphasic mesothelioma are considered to have a bleaker prognosis than patients diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Since biphasic tumors are generally more treatment-resistant, this form of malignant mesothelioma often receives more aggressive treatment than other forms of mesothelioma.
The cells can present themselves in the form of a true mixture whereby Sarcomatoid and Epithelioid cells are intermixed amongst one another; or, the cells can present themselves in the form of an isolated mixture whereby Sarcomatoid and Epithelioid cells are separated from one another throughout different regions of the tumor.
In order to diagnose a case of Biphasic Mesothelioma, a biopsy is required. A type of diagnostic surgery, a biopsy involves the removal of a section of suspect tissue for examination by a Histopathologist.
New mesothelioma and anti-cancer drugs are constantly being researched and developed.
Such drugs are required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to go through extensive clinical trial testing during which their safety and efficacy is monitored.
