Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. The main risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations before it was banned in the year 1970. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at the most risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the protective linings that protect various organs within the body called the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. However, it also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to other lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include difficulty breathing, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like fatigue and weight loss, could develop.

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

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma in all cases and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher chance of developing mesothelioma than others. Workers in asbestos and military veterans and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs in the internal including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma attorneys. This affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but include coughing, chest pain, and breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it shows its first signs. It is often mistaken for other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Doctors can use imaging scans to help diagnose mesothelioma lawsuit and rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical examination the doctor might also suggest imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. Imaging tests could include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine which type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and is more likely to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of mesothelioma lawsuits

Mesothelioma is typically found in the lining of the lungs (pleura), though it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that is heat-resistant, has properties. For decades it was utilized in many American industries because it was affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma may affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence and affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma attorneys form and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining which can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination of your body and may require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are forming within your body.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious however, relatives of those exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin, and. They could then breathe in the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when the cells of the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body causing the formation of tumors.

The main risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and ingested. Then, they can become lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar workers, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members can inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to consult a doctor for any symptoms that may be related to the condition. They may include chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform a physical exam and chest X-ray to look for signs of 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 diagnosed. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how far it has progressed will determine the type of treatment available.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can improve the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and what treatments are available. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit (Check This Out). We are committed to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.