Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at the most risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is the liner that protects the organs of the body. Most often, mesothelioma maligna develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in approximately 3,000 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 cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

The initial signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. The initial symptoms may include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can emerge, like weight loss and fatigue.

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

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is found the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, is responsible for less than 10% of mesothelioma diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with a family history of mesothelioma. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues which line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to begin to show. It is often misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. At this point, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her past exposure to asbestos and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses.

The doctor might also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine the mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.

In a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and has shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the first two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

mesothelioma lawsuits is typically found in the lung's lining (pleura) however it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs that is heat-resistant, has properties. For many years, it was used in a variety of American industries because it is cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector where it was employed for fireproofing and as an insulation material in buildings, ships cars and many other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health issues. The fibers can be inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue that can result in tumors.

Different mesothelioma lawsuits types affect different areas of the body. The most prevalent type of mesothelioma affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most common mesothelioma form and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases so it is crucial to visit your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may request imaging tests to look for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be caused by mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at a higher chance of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, is a result of cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to form.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was utilized in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or eaten. They can then become trapped in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. However blue-collar workers and family members of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothing. Family members can breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases however, it is essential to see a doctor if you have symptoms that could be related to the disease. They may include chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma lawyer type and the far it has advanced will determine which treatments are available.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll ship it to you at no cost, with no commitment. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. You can also contact a lawyer for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.