Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations before it was banned in 1970. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at most risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the protective linings that protect various organs within the body called the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos lawsuit. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct homes, buildings and automobiles. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

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

There are four kinds of mesothelioma and each type has a different prognosis. The most prevalent kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and disrupts their function.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under a microscope. If cancer is detected, the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma in their family. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

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

asbestos law fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but include chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. It is often misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is rare, 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 typically ask the patient about his or her previous exposure to asbestos and then perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and to rule out other illnesses.

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

In a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be 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 is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the two primary types and accounts between 30 and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral has properties that resist heat. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries due to its low price and resistance to fire. The asbestos claim industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen automobiles, ships, buildings and other products. Workers in the construction industry were the most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. These fibers can easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time irritation causes scar tissue to build up which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. The most commonly encountered type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity as well as the lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma that can cause symptoms like breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in 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.

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other illnesses. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may request imaging tests to look for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are forming in your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a greater chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells in the body develop abnormalities and begin to grow out of control. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos litigation. Asbestos was a fibrous material used in construction, among other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They may then get stuck in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers as well as family members of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers could carry Asbestos legal fibers in their clothing, while family members could inhale them when they clean the clothes.

Even though mesothelioma may be uncommon, it's vital to see a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this disease. They may include chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and whether you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor, your doctor will talk with you about the treatment options. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll deliver it to you free of charge, no obligation. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can ask an experienced nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family get the amount of compensation you deserve.