Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The main risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in 1970. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers, and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the protective linings that protect various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances may result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue could develop.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all types are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and interferes with their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the contrary, accounts for less than 10% of all mesothelioma cases and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma in their family. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that protect and line internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and develop into tumors. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins to begin showing symptoms. Most of the time, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

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

In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the kind of mesothelioma the patient has. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive process.

In a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid or sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the former two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. About three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral has properties that resist heat. For many years it was employed in many American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry where it was employed for fireproofing and as an insulation material in buildings, ships automobiles and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were the most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. These fibers can easily be swallowed or inhaled and irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the irritation causes scar tissue to build up, leading to tumors.

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

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other diseases. It is essential to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are evident in your body.

Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but relatives of frankfort asbestos attorney-related patients have a higher chance of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells within the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to form.

The main risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous that was used in construction, as well as other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or eaten. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.

The asbestos-related workers and were responsible for removing or handling it in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers and family members of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members may inhale victoria asbestos law firm fibers when they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is rare however, it is essential to see a physician for any symptoms that may be related to the disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests could include a computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor, your doctor will talk with you about treatment options. These could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can improve the chance of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about the disease and the treatment options available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you at no cost. You can also contact us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be contacted to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.