Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. The main risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, is found in the 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 may also grow in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The exposure to asbestos is the sole known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries due to its affordable and fire-proof. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.

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

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

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under a microscope. If cancer is found, patients can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma attorneys, and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, is responsible for less than 10% of all mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma in their family. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect internal organs including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed at work. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but include coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year to show its first symptoms. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's past asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Doctors can use imaging scans to help diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.

The doctor may also suggest scans for blood and imaging for the abdomen or chest. Imaging tests can include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine what kind of mesothelioma the patient is suffering from. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The mesothelioma cells could be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that resist heat. For decades it was employed in many American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction sector where it was employed for fireproofing and as an insulation material in buildings, ships automobiles, and other products. People who worked in the construction industry were most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health issues. These fibers can easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. Over time irritation causes scar tissue to build up which can lead to tumors.

Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence, affecting the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most common mesothelioma type, and it can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity which can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

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

Mesothelioma may not be contagious however, family members of those exposed to asbestos have 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. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells within the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing the formation of tumors.

The exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was widely used in construction and other industries prior to its ban in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or ingested. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

Workers who were exposed to asbestos and were responsible for its removal or handling and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers and relatives of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members may breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence however, it is essential to see a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the disease. These include chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history, and ask if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examination and a chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. These could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma lawsuit and how far it has advanced.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma but the correct treatment can improve the chance of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll ship it to you at no cost, with no commitment. We can also be reached by calling 1-888-3146906. You can also ask nurses any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.