Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

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

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the protective linings that surround various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The exposure to asbestos settlement is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to build cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these chemicals could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial signs include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can be observed, including fatigue and weight loss.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma and each type has a different prognosis. The most prevalent kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include 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.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined under microscope. If cancer is found the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the contrary, accounts for just 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

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

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues which protect and line internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed at work. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and breathing problems. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to begin to show. It is often mistaken for other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient is in the end-stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses.

The doctor may also suggest scans for blood and imaging for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine what type of mesothelioma a patient has. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.

During the procedure, doctors take out small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mixture of the two primary types and accounts between 30 and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung's lining (pleura) however it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). About 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos law. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. For many years it was employed in many American industries because it is affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Workers in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed, and can irritate mesothelium. Over time irritation can lead to scar tissue, which can result in tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma may affect different areas of the body. The most prevalent type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity and lung. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other ailments. It is important to see your doctor when any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that may be connected to mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious but family members of asbestos-related exposure are more likely to developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos settlement fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary Asbestos Legal exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

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

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They can then become lodged within the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members may inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases however, it is essential to see a physician if you have symptoms that could be related to the disease. This includes chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform a chest X ray and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma is diagnosed. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma yet, the correct treatment can improve the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll send it to you for free. You can also contact us by calling 1-888-3146906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma suit. We're committed to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.