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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of organs internal to them. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure.

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

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers various organs in the body. Most often, mesothelioma maligna forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos litigation when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.

The first symptoms of mesothelioma typically resemble the symptoms of other diseases such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to determine. The initial signs include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue may develop.

There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all types are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and hinders their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered patients are diagnosed with either epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos law is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma in their family. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos at work increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but include coughing, chest pain, and breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. Often, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient is in the late stages of mesothelioma. At this stage, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her past exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.

The doctor might also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests can include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During an examination, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatments and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix 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's lining (pleura) however it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that are heat-resistant. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect automobiles, ships, buildings and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled, and can irritate mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue to grow and can cause tumors.

Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. The most prevalent type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity as well as the lung. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity which can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases, it is important to see your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform an examination and order imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma related changes are evident within your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious however, relatives of those exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk for developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes hair, skin, and. The asbestos lawyer fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was used in construction and other industries before being banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or eaten. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos and were responsible for removing or handling it in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers as well as relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members could inhale asbestos law fibers when cleaning their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is uncommon, it's vital to consult a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this disease. These include chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform a chest X ray and a physical examination to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how far it has progressed will determine the type of treatment available.

The right treatment can boost the chance of survival, even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll ship it to you free of cost, with no obligation. We can also be reached by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can speak to a nurse any questions. You can also contact a lawyer for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family members receive the amount of compensation you deserve.