Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations before it was banned in the year 1970. Miners, construction workers shipyard workers, factory employees and veterans are at most risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the protective linings that cover various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically located in the lungs and abdomen. However, it can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. 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 was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of 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 these chemicals could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

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

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

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is found the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of being diagnosed with the disease than other. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have a family history of mesothelioma. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues which protect and line internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed during work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time cells are damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain, and breathing problems. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to appear. The symptoms are often confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this stage, the doctor will usually ask the patient about his or her past exposure to asbestos and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests could include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. The doctor may also order an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and determine the type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgical procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.

In an examination, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lung's lining (pleura), though it can also develop in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. For decades, it was used in a variety of American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. The rochester asbestos lawsuit industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. These fibers can easily be swallowed or inhaled and cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue, which could cause tumors.

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

Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses, it is important to see your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct an examination and conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are any 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 a greater risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body, causing the formation of tumors.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They can then become lodged in the linings of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers and relatives of bowie asbestos attorney-related workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, while family members could inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.

Although mesothelioma is rare, it is important to see a doctor when you experience symptoms that may be related to the disease. These include chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examinations and a chest Xray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests could include a computed-tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been identified. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has progressed will determine which treatments are available.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can improve the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll send it to you at no charge, no commitment. We can also be reached by calling 1-888-3146906. You can ask a nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.