Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. The main risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran employees are at risk the most of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers various organs in the body. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was used to construct homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma decades after the exposure.

The first symptoms of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other illnesses, including lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms could emerge, like fatigue and weight loss.

There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most commonly used kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumour that encircles vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under a microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma cases and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos lawsuit is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma in their family. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos at work increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium and over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year to begin showing symptoms. The symptoms are often confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this stage the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her past exposure to asbestos lawyer and then perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

The physician may also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors remove small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the two first types and is responsible for between 30% and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) however it can also form in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. For a long time it was utilized in many American industries because it was affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect automobiles, ships, buildings and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. In time irritation can lead to scar tissue, which can result in tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most common mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most common mesothelioma form and can trigger symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases so it is crucial to see your physician if you notice any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will do an examination and physical exam. They may also request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are evident in your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious, family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, is a result of cells in the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was utilized in construction and other industries prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. They can then become lodged within the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos, especially those who were responsible for removing or handling it and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is uncommon, it's vital to seek out a physician if your symptoms are related to this disease. This includes chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform a chest X ray and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor, your doctor will talk with you about the treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how far it has progressed will determine what treatments are available.

The right treatment can improve the chance of survival, even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the available treatments. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can also ask an experienced nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your family receive the amount of compensation you deserve.