Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The main risk factor is exposure to
asbestos lawsuits.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at the most risk of being exposed.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, is found in the linings that cover different organs of the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once popular in American industries due to its 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 materials could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.
The first symptoms of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to determine. The initial signs include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can be observed, including fatigue and weight loss.
There are four types of mesothelioma, and each type 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 are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by 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 affected area and examined under the microscope. If cancer is discovered, the patient can be diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a worse prognosis.
Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. Workers in
asbestos lawsuit and military veterans and those with mesothelioma history are among the groups. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lung.
Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to begin to show. Most of the time, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.
The doctor might also recommend imaging scans and blood tests for the abdomen or chest. Imaging tests may include CT scans, 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 that patient has. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive process.
When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be either epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the first two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
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 pericardium. Around 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only known cancer caused by
asbestos lawyers. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs, has heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulation material in buildings, ships automobiles and many other products. Construction workers were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time, the irritation causes scar tissue to build up, leading to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most commonly encountered type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing problems 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 and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases, it is important to visit your physician if you notice any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination and order imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that could be connected to mesothelioma.
Although mesothelioma isn't contagious however, relatives of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a greater chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is referred to 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.
Exposure to asbestos is the primary mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was used in construction and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. They can then become lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members may inhale asbestos fibers when they wash their clothes.
Even though mesothelioma may be uncommon, it's vital to seek out a physician to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a recurring cold are all signs. The doctor will ask about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform a chest X ray and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma is diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.
The right treatment can boost the chances of survival, even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this disease and the available treatments. We'll deliver it to you free of cost, with no obligation. We can also be reached by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. You can also reach a lawyer for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit (
visit the following page). We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the amount of compensation they deserve.
