Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of internal organs. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations before it was banned in 1970. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees, and veterans are at greatest risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the protective linings that protect different organs of the body known as the mesothelium. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos settlement. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. It was used to construct cars, homes, and buildings. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

The first symptoms of mesothelioma usually resemble the symptoms of other diseases like lung cancer, making it difficult to determine. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing, chest pain and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue, may develop.

There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most commonly used kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and disrupts their function.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined under microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for less than 10% of all mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. Workers in asbestos, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma history are among the groups. Additionally, people who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues which line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, the most prevalent mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are chest pain, coughing and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it shows its first signs. Symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to identify because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. At this stage the doctor will typically ask the patient about his or her previous exposure to asbestos, and perform an examination. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

The doctor may also suggest blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and has a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung's lining (pleura) however it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). About three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos Legal exposure.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral has properties that resist heat. It was used for decades in a variety of American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos attorney industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were at the highest risk of asbestos exposure.

Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. These fibers can easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue, which could lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common, affecting the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. It is the most common form of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling, or digestive problems. It can also affect linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be misinterpreted as other illnesses so it is crucial to consult your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform an examination and order imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if there are changes within your body that could be related to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at greater risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, hair and skin. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos case exposure is the term used to describe this type of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells in the body become abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The exposure to asbestos is the primary mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They can then become stuck in the linings of certain 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 it or handling it. Blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.

Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's essential to see a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this condition. These include chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos compensation. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests can include computed tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

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

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can increase the chance of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll send it to you for free. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can also ask an experienced nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.