Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miner shipyard workers, factory workers, and veteran employees are at risk the most of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that surround different organs of the body called the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be located in the lungs and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once popular in American industries due to its affordable and fire-proof. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may develop, such as weight loss and fatigue.

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

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is found the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma lawsuit cases and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, accounts for just 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma attorneys. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. People who work in asbestos, veterans of the military and those with a history of mesothelioma attorney are among these groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent mesothelioma type. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years to show its first symptoms. Symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to identify because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

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

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

During the biopsy, doctors remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two primary types and accounts between 30% and 40 percent of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs 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 a few thousand people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. For decades it was utilized in a variety of American industries because it was inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction sector, where it was used for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ships, buildings, cars, and other products. Workers in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue that can result in tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent that affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma that can cause symptoms like breathing problems or pain. mesothelioma lawyers can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining and cause unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses, it is important to consult your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can assist doctors determine if there is any changes within your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk for developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes hair, skin, and. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when the cells of the body develop abnormalities and begin to expand uncontrollably. They also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

Exposure to asbestos is the primary mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous material employed in construction, and other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They may then get trapped in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members may inhale them when they clean the clothes.

While mesothelioma can be uncommon, it's vital to see a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examinations and chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed-tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about the treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how it has advanced will determine which treatments are available.

The right treatment can increase the chance of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll send it to you free of cost, without obligation. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can ask an experienced nurse any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit - visit the next page,. We are dedicated to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.