Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

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

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is found in the linings that cover different organs of the body known as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries because it is inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to construct houses, buildings aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. People who worked 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 exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to other lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as fatigue and weight loss, may appear.

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

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered, the patient can be diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis.

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

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to begin to show. It is often misinterpreted as other illnesses such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this point the doctor will typically ask the patient about his or her past exposure to asbestos and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses.

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

When they perform the procedure, doctors take out small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mixture of the two first types and accounts between 30% and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung's lining (pleura) however it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. 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 mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries because of its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health issues. The fibers can be inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the irritation causes scar tissue to grow, leading to tumors.

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

Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other ailments. It is crucial to see your doctor when any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if there is any changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk for developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos law frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by asbestos lawyer fibers. This type 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 grow in uncontrolled ways. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in construction and other industries prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and ingested. Then, they can become trapped in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

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

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases however, it is essential to see a physician if you have symptoms that may be related to the condition. They may include chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests can include computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor your doctor will discuss with you about treatment options. These might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll deliver it to you free of charge, no obligation. You can also reach us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family receive the justice you deserve.