Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at highest danger of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that protect various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be located in the lungs and abdomen. However, it also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was used to build automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma decades after the exposure.

The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble the symptoms of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. Early symptoms include breathing difficulties, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms could develop, such as fatigue and weight loss.

There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has a different prognosis. The most common kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and the peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and disrupts their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined using a microscopy. If cancer is discovered patients are diagnosed with epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for only 10% of all mesothelioma cases 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 being diagnosed with the disease than other. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related family history. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and grow into tumors. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. 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 confused with other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. At this point, the doctor will usually ask the patient about his or her previous exposure to asbestos and then perform a physical examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.

The doctor may also suggest imaging scans and blood tests for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine the kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors take small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lung lining (pleura) however it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. For decades it was employed in many American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Those who worked in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue to grow and can cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma may affect different areas of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lung. This is the most frequent mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining and cause symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination of your body and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are present in your body.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater chance of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes 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

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that begins when cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to develop.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in the construction industry and other fields before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and ingested. They may then get lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos law and were responsible for its removal or handling and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of those who worked with asbestos lawyer are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes, and family members could inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be linked to the disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a recurring cold are all signs. The doctor will ask about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examinations and a chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor the doctor will speak with you about treatment options. These may include chemo, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.

The right treatment can increase the chances of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about the disease 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. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a no-cost consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your family members receive the amount of compensation you deserve.