Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers shipyard workers, factory employees and veterans are at the greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the protective linings that protect various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries because it is cheap and fire-resistant. It was used to build automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms can emerge, like fatigue and weight loss.

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

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

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for 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 who have mesothelioma in their family. In addition, those who have received asbestos claim-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, the cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain, and breathing problems. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it shows its first signs. Most of the time, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the late stages of mesothelioma. At this point, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos and then perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.

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

During a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and has shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mixture of the two types and is responsible for between 30% and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung's lining (pleura) however it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades in a variety of American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

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

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

Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases, it is important to see your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination and conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are present within your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos - look at this site, are at greater risk for developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing hair, skin, and. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells in the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was widely used in construction and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and ingested. They can then be encased in the linings of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos, especially those who were responsible for its removal or handling and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers and relatives of those who worked with asbestos compensation are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence, it is important to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be related to the condition. These include chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct a physical exam and chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests could 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 discuss with you about the treatment options. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine which treatments are available.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can increase the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and what treatments are available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. You can also reach us by calling 1-888-3146906. You can speak to nurses any questions. A lawyer can be reached to arrange a no-cost consultation on filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.