Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at the highest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers the various organs in the body. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be located in the lungs and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries because it was affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos lawyer as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.

The first signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to diagnose. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, including fatigue and weight loss, may develop.

There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However they all are identified with an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under a microscope. If cancer is detected and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma, and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

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

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium and over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that 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 is also difficult to diagnose, as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. At this stage, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her previous exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses.

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

When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a combination of the two primary kinds and accounts for between 30 and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

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 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that resist heat. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was employed to insulate and strengthen vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health issues. These fibers can easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time irritation can lead to scar tissue that can lead to tumors.

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

Since mesothelioma is often misinterpreted as other illnesses, it is important to visit your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may request imaging tests to look for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are forming within your body.

Although mesothelioma does not transmit however, relatives of those exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk for developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes hair, skin and even their hair. The asbestos case fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells in the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was widely used in the construction industry and other fields before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or ingested. They may then get trapped in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos and were responsible for removing or handling it and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers as well as relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may breathe asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing.

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence, it is important to see a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. This could include chemotherapy, 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, the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this condition and the treatments available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer your questions. You can also contact an attorney for a no-cost consultation on filing a mesothelioma suit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.