Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

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

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to construct structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. People who worked 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.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like fatigue and weight loss, may develop.

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

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is found, the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos compensation is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related family history. Additionally, people who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, the most prevalent mesothelioma type. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium, and over time, the cells get damaged. The genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year before it shows its first signs. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the late stages of mesothelioma. At this point the doctor will typically ask the patient about his or her previous exposure to asbestos and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.

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

During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the two first kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries due to its low price and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. The fibers are easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue, which could result in tumors.

Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. The most common mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. This is the most frequent type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling, or digestive problems. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Since mesothelioma is often misinterpreted as other illnesses so it is crucial to see your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do an examination and physical exam. They may also require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma-related changes are present within your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos attorney exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells in the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos lawyer. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was widely used in construction and other industries prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They may then get stuck in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers and family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.

While mesothelioma can be uncommon, it's vital to seek out a physician if your symptoms are related to this disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will ask about your medical history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma is diagnosed. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatment options available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. We can also be reached by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. You can also contact a lawyer for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma suit. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones get the compensation they deserve.