Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.

Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs before it was banned in the year 1970. Construction workers, miner shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, is found in the linings that cover various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma gets 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 inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble the symptoms of other diseases such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to diagnose. Early symptoms include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms could be observed, including weight loss and fatigue.

There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, however all types are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and hinders their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under the microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, is responsible for just 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. The asbestos-related workers or military environments, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma history are among the groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed during work. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain, and breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years to begin showing symptoms. Symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.

The doctor may also suggest imaging scans and blood tests for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine the kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. 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 treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

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

Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs, has heat-resistant properties. For decades it was employed in a variety of American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulation material in buildings, ships automobiles and other items. Construction workers were the most at risk of asbestos exposure.

Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health problems. These fibers are easily swallowed and inhaled, and can irritate mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue that can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma can affect different areas of the body. The most common mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity which can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other illnesses, it is important to consult your physician if you notice any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination of your body and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that may be caused by mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma does not transmit the family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at greater risk for developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. The asbestos legal-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of secondhand asbestos compensation exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is a result of cells in the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors to form.

Asbestos exposure is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous employed in construction, and other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

The asbestos-related workers and were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers and family members of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members can inhale these fibers when they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is rare, it is important to see a physician for any symptoms that could be related to the disease. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examinations and a chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

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

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the correct treatment can improve the chance of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll send it to you for free. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. A lawyer can be reached to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.