Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of internal organs. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of jobs prior to its ban in 1970. Miners, construction workers shipyard workers, factory employees and veterans are at the greatest danger of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that surround different organs of the body called the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only known cause of 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 to construct automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

The first symptoms of mesothelioma are usually similar to the symptoms of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue may develop.

There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects the lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, but all are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and hinders their function.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under microscope. If cancer is found and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 88% of mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. Workers in asbestos and military veterans and those with mesothelioma lawyer history are among these groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of mesothelioma attorney.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year before it shows its first signs. It is often mistaken for other diseases, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. At this stage the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her past 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.

The doctor might also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the kind of mesothelioma lawsuits that patient has. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive process.

During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer that has been proven 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 heat-resistant properties. For decades it was utilized in a variety of American industries because it was affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulating material in buildings, ships cars and other items. Construction workers were at the highest risk of exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue, which could lead to tumors.

Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity and lung. It is the most frequent mesothelioma form and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty 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 the heart's lining which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other diseases. It is essential to see your doctor when any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may request imaging tests to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma-related changes are forming within your body.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious however, relatives of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers begins when cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous used in construction, among other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They can then become stuck in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

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

Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to see a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and whether you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor your doctor will discuss with you about the treatment options. These could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.

The right treatment can increase the chance of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll send it to you for free. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can ask nurses any questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma Lawsuit (028bbs.com). We are dedicated to helping you and your family members receive the compensation you deserve.