Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of 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?

The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers the various organs in the body. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos settlement. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries because it was affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of automobiles, homes, and structures. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.

The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble the symptoms of other diseases such as lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. Early symptoms include breathing problems and chest pain as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can be observed, including fatigue and weight loss.

There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial) 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.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under the microscope. If cancer is detected patients are diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma, and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, is responsible for less than 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups have a greater chance of being diagnosed with the disease than other. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with a family history of mesothelioma. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos lawsuit at work increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most frequent mesothelioma type. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos 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 develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain, and breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. Most of the time, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma's final stages. At this point the doctor will generally inquire about the patient's or her past exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.

The doctor might also recommend scans for blood and imaging for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests can include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgical procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors remove small pieces of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma cell. The mesothelioma cell can be either epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung lining (pleura) but it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that are heat-resistant. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos attorney industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Those who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation leads to scar tissue that can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma can affect various parts of the body. The most common mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lung. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other ailments. It is crucial to see your doctor when any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct 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 will help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are forming within your body.

Although mesothelioma does not transmit, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos claim often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes hair, skin and even their hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, 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, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was utilized in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They may then get lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos and were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers and family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members may breathe asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence, it is important to see a physician when you experience symptoms that may be related to the disease. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a recurring cold are all signs. The doctor will ask about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos legal. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. This could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.

The right treatment can increase the odds of survival even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can speak to a nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We're committed to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.