Pericardial Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Pericardial mesothelioma can be a rare type of mesothelioma, which is found in the lining of the heart (pericardium). This type of mesothelioma can cause symptoms like chest pain or fatigue that may be similar to other conditions.

It can take years for symptoms to manifest after exposure to asbestos. This makes it difficult to determine the cause. The best way to get an accurate diagnosis is for patients to share their experiences of exposure to asbestos with their physician.

What is the cause of mesothelioma of the pericardium?

Pericardial mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in thin membrane that surrounds the heart, also known as the pericardium. This is a rare form of mesothelioma which accounts for 1% to 2 percent of all cases. Like all types of mesothelioma, the pericardial type is also linked to asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a type of naturally occurring mineral that was utilized in a wide range of commercial and household items for many years. Its fibers can be easily swallowed, inhaled or trapped in the linings of the abdominal and chest cavities. Mesothelioma forms when the fibrils are irritated, and they form tumors that then spread throughout the body.

Doctors have only discovered a link between exposure to asbestos and pericardial mesothelioma only in a handful of cases. Although they aren't sure what causes asbestos-related cancer of the pericardium, they do know that around 25% of mesothelioma sufferers are affected. This is partly due to the fact that it usually occurs years after exposure to asbestos.

In most instances, a person exposed to asbestos can develop pleural mesothelioma, which forms in the lungs and lining of the chest wall. There is also the possibility of developing testicular or peritoneal msothelioma in male testes. If they are also diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma, it is difficult to identify because symptoms can be similar to the symptoms of other heart diseases.

The symptoms of pericardial asbestosis usually progress slowly and may affect the ability to breathe. The symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing and a fluid buildup around the heart called pericardial effusion. The condition can be diagnosed by a doctor using an echocardiogram (an ultrasound of the heart) or biopsy.

A mesothelioma specialist can help determine if a patient has the rare form of the disease and find the best treatment. In addition to asbestos exposure other factors that could increase the risk of developing pericardial cancer include genetics as well as an impaired immune system and radiation exposure. A family history of the disease increases the risk.

Symptoms

As with other mesothelioma types, pericardial mesothelioma occurs when asbestos fibers enter the tissue that surrounds the heart. This rare type of cancer, which accounts for less than 1% of all malignant cases of mesothelioma is found most often in people exposed to asbestos in their work environment or within close proximity to those who have been affected by asbestos case. Pericardial mesothelioma symptoms can vary and mimic other conditions and make it difficult to determine the cause.

Pericardial mesothelioma may occur when asbestos particles cling to the pericardial lining and begin to develop tumors that thicken the membrane. It is thought that this is the reason for mesothelioma of the pericardium, but doctors aren't sure how it develops. Most doctors think that the cancer grew from an area of the body, such as the abdominal cavity or lungs (the peritoneum) and then it spread to the lining of the heart.

The chest and abdomen are called the mesothelium, which is the main site for the majority of mesothelioma tumors develop. The disease may also start in the peritoneal lining and testicles. However it is not as common.

The symptoms of mesothelioma, such as mesothelioma pericardial, can take decades to manifest after exposure to asbestos. These symptoms are typically similar to other diseases and can include chest pain, difficulties breathing and fatigue, weight loss and a constant cough. In a few cases, pericardial mesothelioma can cause a swollen finger, a condition in which the fingers expand and appear larger than usual.

Doctors determine if pericardial mesothelioma is a cancer the patient's medical history and symptoms. They will ask the patient about any asbestos exposure, and then perform imaging tests like x rays, CT scans, and an echocardiogram to examine the pericardium. To make sure they are able to determine the cause they will also collect an x-ray or a sample of tissue.

Pericardial mesothelioma is a rare condition, and many doctors are unable to recognize the symptoms. It is crucial for patients to report all of their symptoms to their doctor so that they can be tested for mesothelioma and other ailments. Bring our Symptom Checklist with you to your appointment will ensure that your doctor is aware of all symptoms you are experiencing and will be able to properly determine if you are suffering from mesothelioma or another condition.

Diagnosis

Pericardial mesothelioma is a difficult cancer to diagnose. Symptoms often mimic more common heart disorders and may not appear until the condition has advanced in a significant way. Asbestos exposure can happen years before pericardial malignancies are diagnosed, making it difficult to identify the connection. Anyone with a history of asbestos should be able to share their asbestos attorney exposure history with their doctors and inquire about any asbestos-related symptoms.

The exact cause of mesothelioma of the pericardial region is not known however, doctors believe that it occurs when asbestos fibers migrate from the lungs to the pericardium and irritate the tissue that is there. As time passes the tissues that are irritated transform into cancerous cells that develop into tumors. Due to tumors, fluid accumulates around the organ. This pressure can cause symptoms.

X-rays or CT scans are usually done by doctors first to detect any tumors or excessive fluids. Then, they conduct blood tests to confirm the presence of mesothelioma and determine the extent of any spread of cancerous cells.

Patients suffering from mesothelioma should be ready to discuss their history of work with their doctor. Asbestos workers are at a higher risk of developing asbestos lawsuit-related diseases which include lung cancer and mesothelioma. Patients with a past of exposure to asbestos could be eligible for compensation in a mesothelioma lawsuit.

If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos and has developed pericardial mesothelioma, a lawyer who is experienced in asbestos litigation (duksungelec.com website) can help understand your legal options. Contact Madeksho Law Firm today for an initial consultation for free. There is no charge unless we can get compensation for you.

The pericardial mesothelioma lawyers of Madeksho Law Firm have helped hundreds of veterans and their families in asbestos-related cases. Our lawyers are well-versed in the laws affecting asbestos victims and can help you receive the benefits you deserve. Get started on your claim now by filling out our online form or calling us. We will help you through the entire process. Our number is 1-888-654-7635. Or, download our free Veterans Packet to learn about the benefits you can enjoy.

Treatment

Doctors should conduct physical exams and ask patients questions regarding their asbestos exposure to identify pericardial a mesothelioma. They can then employ various tests like X-rays CT Scans, Echocardiograms and Biopsies to locate the symptoms.

Asbestos fibers can require up to 60 years to reach the lining of the heart, causing cancerous cells. Due to this long time period of latency, it's important for anyone experiencing mesothelioma-related symptoms to consult an expert doctor right away. They must also be honest about their past exposure to asbestos litigation to ensure they get the best treatment.

Pericardial Mesothelioma, which is among the rarest types of mesothelioma, accounts for less than 1percent of all cases of mesothelioma diagnosed. This is due in part to the difficulty of diagnosing this disease since it may be similar to other heart conditions and signs.

A physician will first examine the patient and observe their heartbeat and breathing. The doctor may also request an MRI or CT scan of the chest in order to detect any areas of swelling and check for tumors. If they spot fluid buildup in the pericardium, they will likely require an echocardiogram in order to determine how the heart is working and to determine whether there is any lining that is thickening.

Once the doctor has concluded that there is fluid buildup or a tumor in the pericardium they will conduct a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and determine if the tumor is malignant. When they perform a biopsy, doctors will remove small samples of tissue or fluid and send them to a lab to be tested further.

A lot of patients with pericardial sarcoidosis are not able to survive due to the fact that the treatments are more limited than for other types. However, there are some new treatment methods being explored that may provide better outcomes for patients. One such method involves gene therapy, which is the process of the addition or removal of genes from a body in order to fight certain diseases. Immunotherapy is another option which aims to build an individual's immunity to fight cancer.