Pericardial Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Pericardial mesothelioma is a rare form of mesothelioma that occurs in the lining of the heart (pericardium). This kind of mesothelioma may cause symptoms like fatigue or chest pain that can mimic other conditions.

These symptoms may take years to develop following asbestos exposure which makes a diagnosis difficult. The best method to obtain a correct diagnosis is for patients to share their experiences of asbestos exposure with their doctor.

What is the cause of pericardial mesothelioma?

Pericardial Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the thin membrane lining the heart. This is a rare form of mesothelioma that can be found in 1% to 2 % of all cases. Like all mesothelioma types, pericardial mesothelioma can be linked to asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was extensively used in a variety of commercial and household items. The fibers are easily inhaled, swallowed or trapped in the linings of the chest and abdominal cavities. Mesothelioma forms when the fibrils are irritated, and they form tumors that eventually spread throughout the body.

Doctors have only identified a link between asbestos exposure and pericardial mesothelioma in a small number of cases. Although they aren't sure how asbestos causes this cancer of the pericardium to develop, they do know that approximately a quarter all mesothelioma patients are affected. This is partly due to the fact that it is usually diagnosed decades after a patient's asbestos legal exposure.

In most instances, an individual who is exposed to asbestos may develop pleural mesothelioma. It forms in the lungs and forms a lining of the chest wall. However, they could also develop peritoneal mesothelioma located in the abdomen, or testicular mesothelioma, in the male testes. It can be difficult to identify pericardial mesothelioma when the symptoms are similar to other heart diseases.

The symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma tend to develop gradually and impact breathing. These symptoms include chest pain, breathing difficulties and a fluid accumulation around the heart, referred to as pericardial effusion. A doctor can diagnose this condition by performing an echocardiogram which is an ultrasound scan of the heart, or an pericardial biopsy.

A mesothelioma specialist can determine whether a patient has this rare form of the disease and guide them to the most effective treatment. Other factors, such as genetics, an weakened immune system, and radiation exposure can increase the risk for pericardial msothelioma. Those who have mesothelioma-related family history have an increased risk of developing it as well.

Symptoms

Pericardial mesothelioma also occurs by asbestos fibers affecting the tissue surrounding the heart. This rare type of cancer, which accounts for less than 1% of all malignant cases of mesothelioma is typically found in those who have been exposed to asbestos at work or within close proximity to people who have been affected by asbestos. Pericardial Mesothelioma may present with many symptoms that can be difficult to diagnose.

Pericardial mesothelioma may occur when asbestos particles stick to the pericardial lining and begin to grow into tumors which thicken the membrane. Doctors do not know how pericardial cancer develops, but they believe that asbestos particles are the reason. The majority of doctors believe that the cancer spread from a different part of the body such as the lungs, abdominal cavity (peritoneum) and finally to the lining of the heart.

The lining of the abdomen and chest are known as the mesothelium. This is the primary location for most mesothelioma tumors to develop. The disease may also start in the lining of the peritoneum or in the testicles though this is far less common.

Symptoms of mesothelioma, including pericardial mesothelioma may take years to show up after exposure to asbestos. These symptoms can be similar to those of other diseases that cause chest pain, difficulty in breathing fatigue, fatigue, and weight loss. In some instances the pericardial tumor can cause clubbing, an illness in which the fingers swell up and look rounder than normal.

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 confirm the diagnosis they will also collect a sample of fluid or tissue.

Pericardial Mesothelioma is a rare condition that is not recognized by many doctors, can lead to serious symptoms. Patients should report all symptoms to their doctor in order to be tested for mesothelioma and other ailments. Bringing our Symptom Checklist to your appointment can ensure your doctor is aware of your symptoms and can accurately diagnose you.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of pericardial mesothelioma is difficult. Symptoms often mimic more common heart disorders and may not appear until the disease has progressed significantly. Asbestos exposure can occur years before pericardial msothelioma can be diagnosed which makes it difficult to determine the connection. However, anyone who has a history of asbestos exposure should share their exposure with their doctor and inquire about any asbestos-related symptoms.

The cause of pericardial mesothelioma remains unknown, but doctors believe that it is caused by asbestos fibers that migrate from the lungs to the pericardium and irritate the tissue that is there. Over time the affected tissue transforms into cancerous cells that grow into tumors and expand the pericardium. Because of tumors, fluid accumulates around the organ. This pressure can cause symptoms.

Typically, doctors will first conduct imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans to spot any abnormal fluids or tumors. Then, they conduct tests in the blood to confirm the presence of mesothelioma, and determine the extent to which cancerous cells are expanding.

Mesothelioma patients should also be prepared to discuss their work medical history with a doctor. Asbestos workers are at a higher chance of developing asbestos-related illnesses such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. Patients who have an asbestos-related history may qualify for compensation through mesothelioma litigation.

If you or someone close to you has been exposed to asbestos and has developed pericardial mesothelioma, a lawyer with experience in asbestos case litigation can help you know your legal options. Contact Madeksho Law Firm today for an initial consultation for free. There is no fee unless we collect compensation on your behalf.

Madeksho Law Firm has helped hundreds of veterans with asbestos-related cases. Our lawyers are knowledgeable of the laws that affect asbestos victims and can assist you in obtaining the benefits you are entitled to. Start your claim now by filling out our online form or calling us. We will guide you through the entire process. Our number is 1-888-654 7635. Download our free Veterans Packet for more information about your benefits.

Treatment

To properly identify pericardial mesothelioma doctors must conduct physical examinations and inquire with patients about their asbestos compensation exposure history. They can then use various tests, such as Xrays, CT Scans, echocardiograms and biopsies to identify the signs and determine if there's an accumulation of fluid in the pericardium.

It can take up to 60 years for asbestos fibers to reach the lining of the heart and cause cancerous cells to grow. It is vital that anyone who has mesothelioma-related symptoms see a doctor immediately because of the long latency period. It is also essential to be upfront about their prior exposure to asbestos to ensure they get the best treatment.

Pericardial Mesothelioma (PM), one of the rarest mesothelioma types is responsible for less than 1percent of all mesothelioma cases diagnosed. This is due in part to the difficulty of identifying this condition because it can be a symptom of other heart diseases and signs.

The first step in the diagnosis process is a physical examination conducted by a physician who will listen to the patient's breathing and heartbeat. The doctor can also order an MRI or CT scan of the chest to find any areas of swelling, and also check for tumors. If they find fluid in the pericardium, they will order an echocardiogram. This will be used to evaluate the heart's function and determine whether the lining of the heart has thickened.

After the doctor has determined there is a tumor or a fluid buildup in the pericardium they will perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and determine if it is malignant. During the biopsy, doctors will remove small samples of fluid or tissue and send them to a lab for further testing.

A lot of patients with pericardial sarcoidosis will not be able to recover because the treatments are more limited than for other kinds. However, there are some new treatments being developed which could provide better results for patients. Gene therapy is one such method. It involves introducing or eliminating certain genes from the body of a patient to fight certain diseases. Another option is immunotherapy, which seeks to strengthen a patient's immune system to fight cancer.