Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs prior to its ban in the year 1970. Construction workers, miner shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at the greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that cover different organs of the body known as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant allentown mesothelioma lawsuit (Youtube published an article) is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these materials could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

The initial signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to the symptoms of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue, could develop.

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

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order 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, patients can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is 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 more at risk of developing the disease than others. People who work in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related history are among the groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs inside, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung.

asbestos attorney fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 year to show its first symptoms. The symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will inquire about the patient's past asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and to rule out other illnesses.

The doctor may also suggest blood tests and imaging scans for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.

In a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic variant is a mixture of the two primary types and accounts between 30% and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs, has heat-resistant properties. For many years it was utilized in a variety of American industries because it is cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulating material in ship construction, buildings automobiles and many other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which could cause tumors.

Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lung. This is the most frequent type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms like 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 linings of the heart causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other diseases, it is important to see your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do an examination of your body and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are forming in your body.

Although mesothelioma does not transmit, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater risk of developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and even their hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers starts when the cells of the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body causing the formation of tumors.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was utilized in construction and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They can then become trapped in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers and relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members may inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is rare, it is important to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be related to the disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been diagnosed. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.

The right treatment can increase the chance of survival, even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can ask an experienced nurse any questions. You can also contact a lawyer for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma suit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family get the amount of compensation you deserve.