Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs before it was banned in the year 1970. Construction workers, miner, shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers various organs of the body. Most often, mesothelioma maligna develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. Exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. It was used to build cars, homes, and buildings. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

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

There are four kinds of mesothelioma and each type has distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, however all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and hinders their function.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under a microscope. If cancer is detected the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of being diagnosed with the disease than other. The asbestos-related workers, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma lawyer.

The symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most frequent mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and can include coughing chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins to show its first symptoms. Most of the time, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient is in the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this point the doctor will typically ask the patient about his or her prior exposure to asbestos and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests could 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 mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove small pieces of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic form is a mix of the two first types and accounts between 30 and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with heat-resistant properties. For a long time, it was used in many American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulating material in ships, buildings, cars and many other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of being exposed to asbestos attorney.

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

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most common type of mesothelioma attorney affects the lining of the chest cavity and lung. This is the most common mesothelioma that can cause symptoms like breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other illnesses so it is crucial to consult your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests help doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious however, relatives of those exposed to asbestos are at a higher chance of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that begins when cells in the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to form.

The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous material used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or ingested. They can then become lodged within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is uncommon, it's vital to consult a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will inquire about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about the treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.

The right treatment can boost the chance of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this condition and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll send it to you at no cost. You can also reach us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can ask an experienced nurse any questions. You can also reach a lawyer for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit (Read Full Report). We are committed to helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.