mesothelioma etymology

Etymology

Mesothelioma is derived from three Greek roots:

  • meso-: meaning "middle"
  • theli-: meaning "nipple" or "teat"
  • -oma: meaning "tumor"

Meaning and Origin

Mesothelioma refers to a type of cancer that arises from the cells that line the pleural and peritoneal cavities, which are the protective layers surrounding the lungs and abdominal organs, respectively. The term "meso-" reflects the location of the tumor in the middle layer of these cavities. "Theli-" alludes to the shape of the cells involved, which are often flattened and resemble epithelial cells that line the ducts of mammary glands. Finally, "-oma" indicates the presence of a tumor.

The term "mesothelioma" was first used in the late 1800s by German pathologist Otto Lubarsch. It has since become the standard medical term for this type of cancer.

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