Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.

Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations before it was banned in the year 1970. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers, and veterans are at the highest danger of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. Exposure to asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these materials could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

The initial signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue may appear.

There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and the peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is discovered and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis.

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

The symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that protect and line internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed at work. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

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

When they perform an examination, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has shorter lives. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a combination of the two primary kinds and accounts for between 30 and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) however it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma attorney growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs, has heat-resistant properties. It was extensively used in many American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulation material in ships, buildings cars and many other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation causes scar tissue to build up which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma is one that affects the lining in the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases, it is important to consult your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination of your body and may require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are evident in your body.

Mesothelioma might not be contagious however, family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher chance of developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. These individuals could then inhale the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers starts when the cells of 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.

Asbestos exposure is the primary mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous material that was used in construction, as well as other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or eaten. They can then be encased in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. However blue-collar workers as well as relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members may inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes.

While mesothelioma can be uncommon, it's vital to consult a doctor if your symptoms are related to this condition. This includes chest pain, breathing problems 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 perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

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

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Get your free mesothelioma lawsuits guide to know more about this condition and the treatment options available. We'll send it to you free of charge, no obligation. We can also be reached by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. You can also call an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding filing a Mesothelioma lawsuit (baun-owen-2.blogbright.net). We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.