Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of organs internal to them. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure.

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

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that cover different organs of the body called the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna develops in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once popular in American industries because it is cheap and fire-resistant. It was used in the construction of houses, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can be observed, including fatigue and weight loss.

There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most common form is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, however all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and interferes with their function.

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A sample of the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is found the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, is responsible for just 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma in their family. In addition, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.

The symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues which protect and line internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are chest pain, coughing and breathing problems. 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 signs to show. Often, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the late stages of mesothelioma. At this stage, the doctor will usually 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 or rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical exam the doctor might also suggest imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and determine the kind of mesothelioma that patient has. The biopsy may be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a much better 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 most commonly occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the sole known 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 used for decades in many American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Workers in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

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

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lung. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be misinterpreted as other illnesses so it is crucial to visit your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may request imaging tests to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are forming in your body.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious however, relatives of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher chance of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos lawyer fibers on their clothing hair, skin, and. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when the cells of the body become abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body causing the formation of tumors.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was widely used in construction and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and ingested. Then, they can become stuck in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos, especially those who were responsible for its removal or handling, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members may inhale asbestos settlement fibers when cleaning their clothing.

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 symptoms. The doctor will ask about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos litigation. The doctor will also conduct a chest X ray and a physical examination to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include a 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 might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how far it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can increase the chances of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this condition and the treatment options available. We'll send it to you free of cost, with no obligation. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can ask nurses any questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones receive the amount of compensation they deserve.