Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

asbestos lawsuit is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at highest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that surround various organs within the body called the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Every 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 is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to construct homes, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma for years after the exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial signs include chest pain, difficulty breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue may develop.

There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most common form is pleural. It affects lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and hinders their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered patients are diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the contrary, accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related family history. Additionally, people who have received asbestos settlement-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is aesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of all 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. Around 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that resist heat. For a long time it was utilized in many American industries because it was inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Workers in the construction industry were among those most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

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

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common that affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most frequent mesothelioma form, and it can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties 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 linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other diseases. It is essential to see your doctor if any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may request imaging tests to look for abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if there is any changes within your body that could be related to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious the family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk for developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos legal fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when the cells of the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors to develop.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos claim. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was utilized in the construction industry and other fields before being banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and ingested. They can then be encased in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

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

Even though mesothelioma may be uncommon, it's vital to see a doctor if your symptoms are related to this condition. These include chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examination and a chest Xray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests could include computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma but the correct treatment can improve the chances of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this disease and the available treatments. We'll send it to you free of cost, with no commitment. We can also be reached by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can speak to nurses any questions. A lawyer can be reached to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.