Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations before it was banned in 1970. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at the highest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium acts as a liner that protects the organs of the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. 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 material that was once popular in American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these substances can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include difficulty breathing, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may develop, such as fatigue and weight loss.

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

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A sample of the affected area is examined under microscope. If cancer is detected, patients can be diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 88% of mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos claim is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. The asbestos case-related workers and military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related history are among the groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at chance of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

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

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and develop into tumors. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years to show its first symptoms. The symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans 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 could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine the type of mesothelioma is present. 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 cells can be epithelioid or sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and tends to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic form is a combination of the two types and accounts between 30 and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung's lining (pleura) but it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that are heat-resistant. For a long time it was employed in many American industries because it was affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulating material in ships, buildings automobiles, and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. The fibers can be inhaled and swallowed, and can irritate mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue, which can cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common and affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other illnesses so it is crucial to see your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform an examination and physical exam. They may also require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are present in your body.

Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but relatives of asbestos-related patients are more likely to developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, hair and skin. These individuals could inhale asbestos compensation fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos lawsuit exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when the cells of the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The main risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was widely used in construction and other industries before being banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They can then become stuck in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have worked with asbestos legal (more helpful hints). This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers and family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothes.

Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to see a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a recurring cold are all symptoms. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examinations and chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests can include computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. These might include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma but the correct treatment can improve the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this disease and the available treatments. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you at no cost. You can also reach us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. You can also reach a lawyer for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the compensation they deserve.