Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

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

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers various organs of the body. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically located in the lungs and abdomen. However, it can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the 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 material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. It was employed in the construction of structures, homes aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma decades after the exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to those of other lung cancer. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like fatigue and weight loss, may develop.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma, and each type has an individual prognosis. The most prevalent kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and the peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under the microscope. If cancer is found the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis.

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

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year to show its first symptoms. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the late stages of mesothelioma. At this stage the doctor will typically ask the patient about his or her prior exposure to asbestos settlement, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine what kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgical procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.

In the procedure, doctors take out mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the first two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos litigation exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. For decades it was utilized in a variety of American industries because it is cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was employed to insulate and strengthen buildings, ships, automobiles and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

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

Different types of mesothelioma affect various parts of the body. The most common type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most common mesothelioma form and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive problems. It can also affect the heart's lining, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other diseases. It is important to see your doctor when any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will perform physical examinations and may order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are changes within your body that could be connected to mesothelioma.

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

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, begins when cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to form.

The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was utilized in the construction industry and other fields before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or ingested. They may then get lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

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

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence however, it is essential to see a physician when you experience symptoms that could be linked to the disease. These include chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray of the chest and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about treatment options. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can improve the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this condition and the available treatments. No obligation, we'll send it to you for free. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We're committed to helping you and your family get the amount of compensation you deserve.