Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations prior to its ban in 1970. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at the highest risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, is found in the linings that surround various organs in the body called the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once popular in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to construct homes, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include breathing difficulties, chest pain and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms could be observed, including weight loss and fatigue.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma, and each type has distinct prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is found the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, is responsible for just 10% of mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These include those who work in the asbestos case industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. Additionally, people who have had asbestos legal-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos lawsuit is exposed at work. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years to show its first symptoms. It is often mistaken for other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

The doctor might also recommend imaging scans and blood tests for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive process.

During the biopsy, doctors take small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic form is a combination of the two kinds and accounts for between 30 and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lining of the lungs (pleura), though it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). About 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

asbestos attorney is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. It was used for decades in many American industries because of its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulation material in buildings, ships cars and many other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of exposure to asbestos.

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

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent, affecting the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most common mesothelioma type, and it can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive problems. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases so it is crucial to visit your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are present within your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The main risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos law. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous used in construction, among other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

The asbestos-related workers particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members may inhale these fibers when they wash their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence, it is important to see a physician if you have symptoms that may be related to the condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma. Other tests could include a computed-tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma has been identified. These might include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and what treatments are available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can also ask a nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your family receive the amount of compensation you deserve.