Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in 1970. Miner, construction workers, shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at the greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the protective linings that surround various organs in the body known as the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. Exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.

The initial signs of mesothelioma usually resemble the symptoms of other diseases like lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. The initial signs include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including fatigue and weight loss, could develop.

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

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under microscope. If cancer is detected, patients can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma cases and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of being diagnosed with the disease than other. Workers in asbestos, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma history are among the groups. People who have had radiation therapy related to greenfield asbestos attorney are also at chance of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos at work increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to begin to show. Symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.

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

During the biopsy, doctors remove small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and tends to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic form is a mix of the two types and accounts between 30 and 40 percent of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

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 pericardium. Around 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by Illinois Asbestos Law Firm. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that resist heat. For a long time, it was used in a variety of American industries because it is cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially profitable 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 the most at risk for exposure to tulare asbestos law firm.

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

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

Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other ailments. It is crucial to see your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will conduct an examination and conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are any changes within your body that could be connected to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells in the body develop abnormalities and begin to expand uncontrollably. 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 asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or ingested. Then, they can become trapped in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Workers who were exposed to asbestos and were responsible for removing or handling it and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Family members can breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is rare, it's important to seek out a physician in case your symptoms are linked to this condition. They may include chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and whether you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct a chest X ray and a physical exam to determine if you have 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 the treatment options. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has progressed will determine the type of treatment available.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma, the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll send it to you at no charge, no commitment. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We're committed to helping you and your family members receive the amount of compensation you deserve.