Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

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

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, grows in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body known as the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it also can form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only cause that is known 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 affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of houses, buildings aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. Workers who handled the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

The first signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to those of other illnesses such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to determine. These early symptoms can include difficulty breathing, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, such as fatigue and weight loss.

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

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is discovered, patients can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that protect and line internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos attorney in the workplace increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.

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 can differ, but common ones are chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.

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

In an examination, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic form is a combination of the two primary types and accounts between 30 and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lung's lining (pleura), though it can also form 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 cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with heat-resistant properties. For a long time it was utilized in a variety of American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily be swallowed or inhaled and cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue to grow which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma type affects the lining in the chest cavity as well as the lung. This is the most common mesothelioma that can cause symptoms like breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct an examination and request imaging tests to look for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests help doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be connected to mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but relatives of those exposed to asbestos have a higher chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos compensation brought asbestos litigation fibers home on their clothes, hair and skin. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers starts when the cells of the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

Asbestos exposure is the primary mesothelioma risk factor. asbestos litigation legal (Shalomsilver blog post) was a mineral that was fibrous used in construction, among other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos and were responsible for removing or handling it and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos legal workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, and family members may breathe asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.

While mesothelioma can be rare, it's essential to seek out a physician if your symptoms are related to this condition. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform a physical exam and chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about possible treatment options. These might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can improve the chance of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll deliver it to you at no charge, no commitment. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family receive the justice you deserve.