Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.

Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations prior to its ban in the year 1970. Construction workers, miner, shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at the greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers the various organs in the body. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be located in the lungs and abdomen. However, it also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the 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 is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries because it was affordable and fire-proof. It was used to construct houses, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these materials can lead to mesothelioma decades after the exposure.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to other lung cancer. Early symptoms include breathing problems or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may emerge, like weight loss and fatigue.

There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined using a microscopy. If cancer is found the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have a family history of mesothelioma. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing 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 year before it shows its first signs. Often, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's past asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests can include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the first two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

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

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos legal (linked website) industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Those 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 could cause serious health problems. The fibers can be swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue, which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence, affecting the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma form and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious but relatives of asbestos-related patients are more likely to developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing hair, skin and hair. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos compensation exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos claim exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells within the body develop abnormalities and begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous employed in construction, and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They may then get stuck in the linings of certain organs and cause 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 as well as family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing.

Although mesothelioma is uncommon, it's vital to consult a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this disease. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will ask you about your medical history, and ask if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been diagnosed. This could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.

The right treatment can increase the chances of survival, even if there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this disease and the treatments available. We'll ship it to you at no cost, with no commitment. You can also reach us by calling 1-888-3146906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also reach a lawyer for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones get the amount of compensation they deserve.