What is the Difference Between Lung Cancer and Mesothelioma?

Lung cancer and mesothelioma are two different types of cancer that can affect the lungs. Although they have some similarities, there are key differences between the two:

1. Location: Lung cancer develops inside the lungs, while mesothelioma develops in the lining around the lungs (the pleura).
2. Causes: Both lung cancer and mesothelioma can be caused by asbestos exposure. However, lung cancer is more commonly caused by smoking and environmental exposure, while mesothelioma is almost always caused by asbestos.
3. Symptoms: Both diseases can cause symptoms such as chest pain, coughing, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and weight loss.
4. Diagnosis: Diagnosing mesothelioma and lung cancer requires a doctor to perform a biopsy. A CT or PET scan alone is unreliable for differentiating between the two.
5. Treatment: Lung cancer treatments differ from mesothelioma treatments because the two cancers are not the same. However, both cancers commonly combine individual treatments into one multimodal therapy.
6. Growth Pattern: Lung cancer typically grows in individual masses with defined boundaries, while mesothelioma tends to start as small nodule tumors that are scattered in the mesothelial lining and eventually grow together, forming a sheath-like tumor that surrounds the lungs or other organs.

Accurate diagnosis and proper treatment depend on understanding the differences between lung cancer and mesothelioma. It is crucial to consult with a specialist to determine the correct diagnosis and the best course of treatment for each patient.

Comparative Table: Lung Cancer vs Mesothelioma

Here is a table summarizing the differences between lung cancer and mesothelioma:

It is important to note that lung cancer and mesothelioma share some similarities, such as causing chest pain, coughing, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and weight loss. However, they differ in their formation, causes, types, and treatment approaches.