Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at most risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, develops in the protective linings that surround different organs of the body known as the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. Asbestos exposure is the sole known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was employed in the construction of homes, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.

The initial signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other diseases like lung cancer, which makes it difficult to identify. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as fatigue and weight loss, could develop.

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

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under the microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma attorney on the other hand, is responsible for only 10% of all mesothelioma cases and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma in their family. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.

The symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues which protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The risk of developing mesothelioma lawsuits increases when asbestos is exposed at work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. Often, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor might also request an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.

When they perform the procedure, doctors take out mesothelium in small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the former two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic form is a mix of the two primary types and is responsible for between 30% and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. It was extensively used in many American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect buildings, ships, automobiles and other products. People who worked in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. These fibers can easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate, leading to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence that affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most common form of mesothelioma and can trigger symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other diseases. It is essential to see your doctor if any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will conduct an examination and order imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are changes within your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma does not transmit, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at a higher chance of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is a result of cells in the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors to develop.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous that was used in construction, as well as other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. However blue-collar workers as well as family members of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, and family members may breathe asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing.

Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to see a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this disease. They may include chest pain, difficulty breathing 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 chest scan and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

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

The right treatment can boost the chance of survival, even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the treatment options available. We'll send it to you at no charge, no commitment. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can also ask an experienced nurse any questions. You can also contact a lawyer for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit (read more). We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the amount of compensation they deserve.