Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

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

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, is found in the linings that protect various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly located in the lungs and abdomen. However, it can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to other lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms can emerge, like weight loss and fatigue.

There are four types of mesothelioma, and each type has distinct prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumour that surrounds the vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of being diagnosed with the disease than other. Workers in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma history are among these groups. In addition, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

The symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues which line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium and over time, the cells get damaged. The genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea 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 begins before it shows its first signs. Often, the symptoms are 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 other diseases.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. At this point the doctor will generally inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.

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

In the procedure, doctors take out mesothelium in small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type 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 lining (pleura) but it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos law.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. For a long time, it was used in many American industries because it is inexpensive 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 ship construction, buildings, cars and other items. Construction workers were at the highest risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which can result in tumors.

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

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other diseases. It is essential to see your doctor when any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious however, family members of asbestos-related exposure have a higher risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos attorney brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers starts when the cells of the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing the formation of tumors.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. asbestos legal (More hints) was a mineral that was fibrous that was used in construction, as well as other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They can then be encased in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members may inhale asbestos fibers when they wash their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is rare It is still important to see a physician when you experience symptoms that could be related to the disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will ask about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform a physical exam and chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about treatment options. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how far it has progressed will determine the type of treatment available.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you at no cost. We can also be reached by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. A lawyer can be contacted to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the compensation they deserve.