Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs prior to its ban in the year 1970. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees and veterans are at highest danger of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers various organs of the body. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. Exposure to asbestos is the sole known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct cars, homes, and buildings. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue, may develop.

There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.

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 a microscope. If cancer is discovered, patients can be diagnosed with epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for less than 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses 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 higher chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had asbestos lawsuit-related radiation treatment are also at risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues which line and protect internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common mesothelioma type. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. Often, the symptoms are confused with 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 generally do not associate mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. At this point, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her previous exposure to asbestos legal - advice here, and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or to rule out other illnesses.

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

During the biopsy, doctors take small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40 percent of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

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

asbestos lawsuit is a mineral that naturally occurs has properties that resist heat. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry where it was employed for fireproofing and as an insulation material in buildings, ships cars, and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily be swallowed or inhaled and irritate the mesothelium. Over time irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma is one that affects the lining in the chest cavity as well as the lung. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms like breathing problems 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 heart's lining which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses, it is important to visit your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform physical examinations and may order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there are changes in your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma might not be contagious but family members of asbestos-related exposure have a higher risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

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

Exposure to asbestos is the primary mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral that was used in construction, as well as other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They can then become stuck in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers as well as family members of asbestos settlement workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members could inhale asbestos lawyer fibers while cleaning the clothes.

While mesothelioma can be uncommon, it's vital to see a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examinations and chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about possible treatment options. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine which treatments are available.

The right treatment can boost the chance of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and what treatments are available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. You can also reach us by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation regarding filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We're committed to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.