Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

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

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium acts as a liner that protects the organs of the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma develops in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to build cars, homes, and buildings. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these materials can cause mesothelioma for years after the exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to other lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as fatigue and weight loss, could develop.

There are four types of mesothelioma and each type has an individual prognosis. The most prevalent kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each has distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumour that encircles vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined under microscope. If cancer is detected, patients can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at chance of developing mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

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

asbestos lawsuit fibers irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the cells get damaged. The genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year before it shows its first signs. The symptoms are often confused with other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. At this stage, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos and then perform an examination. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and determine the kind of mesothelioma the patient has. The biopsy may be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

In a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. 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 may also be present in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with heat-resistant properties. For many years it was utilized in a variety of American industries because it is affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health problems. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation causes scar tissue to grow and can cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect various parts of the body. The most common type of mesothelioma affects the lining of the chest cavity and lung. This is the most frequent mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive problems. It can also affect the heart's lining, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be misinterpreted as other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to see your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform physical examinations and may order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma-related changes are present within your body.

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

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that starts when the cells of the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous material that was used in construction, as well as other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or eaten. They may then get trapped in the lining of specific organs and cause 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. Blue-collar employees, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos attorney fibers home on their clothing, and family members may breathe asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases however, it is essential to see a physician for any symptoms that could be linked to the condition. This includes chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma has been identified. These may include chemo, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how it has advanced will determine which treatments are available.

The right treatment can improve the odds of survival even if there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are available. No obligation, we'll send it to you at no cost. You can also reach us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. You can also contact an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit (visit the up coming post). We are committed to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.