Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.

Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations prior to its ban in the year 1970. Construction workers, miner shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, is found in the linings that protect various organs in the body called the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos lawyers. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was employed in the construction of houses, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these materials can lead to mesothelioma decades after the exposure.

The first signs of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other diseases such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to diagnose. The initial signs include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may be observed, including fatigue and weight loss.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma, and each type has distinct prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that covers vital organs and hinders their function.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under a microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, accounts for less than 10% of all mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of being diagnosed with the disease than other. Workers in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma attorney, the most frequent mesothelioma type. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors form. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to appear. It is often mistaken for other diseases like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this point, the doctor will usually ask the patient about his or her prior exposure to asbestos and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.

The physician may also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine what kind of mesothelioma that patient is suffering from. The biopsy could be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

In a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and has shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or pericardium. About three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma attorney every year. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. For a long time, it was used in a variety of American industries due to its inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Workers in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. The fibers can be inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time irritation causes scar tissue to build up which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence and affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity which can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses, it is important to consult your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform an examination and physical exam. They may also request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that may be connected to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious the family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at greater risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos lawyers exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when the cells of the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in construction and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members could inhale these fibers when they clean 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 disease. These include chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been identified. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.

The right treatment can increase the chance of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Get your free mesothelioma lawyers Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll deliver it to you at no cost, with no commitment. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is available to answer any questions you may have. You can also call an attorney for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.