Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard, factory, and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body called the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. 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 build homes, buildings and automobiles. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. Early symptoms include breathing problems or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms can develop, such as weight loss and fatigue.

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

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is detected the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis.

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

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos compensation in the workplace increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. Symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with 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 prior exposure to asbestos and then perform an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and determine if there are other diseases.

The physician may also recommend scans for blood and imaging for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the type of mesothelioma a patient has. The biopsy could be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors remove small pieces of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic variant is a combination of the two first types and accounts between 30 and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos attorney exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. For decades it was employed in many American industries because it was affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which can cause tumors.

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

Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other illnesses. It is important to see your doctor when any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may request imaging tests to look for abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are evident in your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. The asbestos lawsuit fibers could then be breathed in by asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, is a result of cells in the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was widely used in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and consumed. They may then get lodged within the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

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

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence It is still important to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be linked to the condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about possible treatment options. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.

The right treatment can improve the chance of survival, even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this disease and the treatment options available. We'll ship it to you at no cost, without obligation. You can also reach us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can also ask nurses any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We're committed to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.