Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure.

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

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers various organs in the body. Most often, mesothelioma maligna is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. Exposure to asbestos is the sole known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it was inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to construct houses, buildings aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

The initial signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer, which makes it difficult to diagnose. These early symptoms can include breathing problems and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may develop, such as fatigue and weight loss.

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

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. Workers in asbestos and military veterans and those who have mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed during work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but 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, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it shows its first signs. Most of the time, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses.

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

During the biopsy, doctors take small pieces of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a combination of the two first kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung lining (pleura) however it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that resist heat. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof 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 which can cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time irritation causes scar tissue to build up and can cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to consult your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will do an examination and physical exam. They may also order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if there are any changes within your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious but family members of asbestos-related exposure have a higher risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when the cells of the body develop abnormalities and begin to grow uncontrollably. They also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

Exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous used in construction, among other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or consumed. They can then become trapped in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Workers who were exposed to asbestos and were responsible for its removal or handling, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members may inhale asbestos fibers when they wash their clothes.

While mesothelioma can be rare, it's important to seek out a physician to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. This includes chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and whether you tube have ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examinations and a chest Xray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed-tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor your doctor will discuss with you about possible treatment options. These could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the it has advanced will determine which treatments are available.

The right treatment can increase the chances of survival, even if there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this condition and the treatments available. We'll send it to you free of charge, no obligation. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can also ask a nurse any questions. A lawyer can be contacted to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.