Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The main risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

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

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers various organs of the body. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these substances may result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to those of other lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing problems and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms could emerge, like fatigue and weight loss.

There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has an individual prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma attorneys, which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and the peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, however all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that covers vital organs and disrupts their function.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under microscope. If cancer is detected patients are diagnosed with epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 88% of mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma attorney in their family. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs inside, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent mesothelioma type. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to show. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests can include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.

When they perform an examination, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma lawsuit diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral has properties that resist heat. For many years it was utilized in many American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Workers in the construction industry were most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health problems. These fibers can easily be swallowed or inhaled and irritate the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue, which can result in tumors.

Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. The most common mesothelioma is one that affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lung. It is the most prevalent form of mesothelioma and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling, or digestive problems. It can also affect the heart's lining, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma lawyers can be mistaken for other illnesses, it is important to visit your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may order imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma related changes are forming within your body.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious but relatives of asbestos-related patients are more likely to developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

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

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous employed in construction, and other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or ingested. They may then get lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos and were responsible for its removal or handling and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma attorney. However blue-collar workers as well as relatives of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, while family members could inhale them when they clean the clothes.

Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to consult a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examinations and a chest Xray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about treatment options. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has progressed will determine which treatments are available.

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about the disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. You can also call a lawyer for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.