25 Amazing Facts About Peritoneal Mesothelioma Asbestos: Difference between revisions

mNo edit summary
mNo edit summary
Line 1: Line 1:
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Asbestos Symptoms<br><br>Peritoneal mesothelioma asbestos signs typically affect the digestive system. This is due to asbestos fibers being ingested, and become embedded in a lining of the stomach, known as the peritoneum.<br><br>As time passes, these fibers result in mutations to the healthy peritoneal cell. Tumors that are cancerous develop in the peritoneum as a result.<br><br>The diagnosis of mesothelioma may be a challenge. Early signs can be confused with other symptoms such as hernias or irritable Bowel Syndrome.<br><br>Signs and symptoms<br><br>Asbestos fibers can travel through the body when inhaled. They can then be stuck in the abdominal lining or other organs, creating inflammation and irritation that eventually leads to tumor growth. This process can take a long time to develop, and most sufferers are unaware that they are exposed to asbestos until it is too late.<br><br>Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma occurs when asbestos fibers are trapped in the tissue that lines the abdominal cavity as well as other organs. It is the second most common [https://peatix.com/user/24267654 mesothelioma lawyers]. However, it can be difficult to recognize because the early symptoms are nonspecific and similar to those of digestive disorders. Patients with peritoneal mesothelioma often have stomach pain, fatigue and gastrointestinal issues.<br><br>Mesothelioma patients are usually diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma following having a physical exam, a medical history review and an array of tests in the laboratory. A X-ray as well as a CT scan can assist doctors to identify any lumps or other indications of illness. In some cases, doctors who treat mesothelioma may also request a biopsy to obtain a more precise diagnosis.<br><br>Peritoneal Mesothelioma symptoms usually start in the abdomen. They can cause severe abdominal discomfort, bloating and weight loss. They may also cause nausea and vomiting as well as other digestive issues. Symptoms may also include chest pain, swelling and fatigue. It is crucial for patients to seek a medical diagnosis when they experience these symptoms, as they could be caused by something other than mesothelioma.<br><br>Despite the difficulty in diagnosing patients with peritoneal msothelioma, they can typically receive the appropriate treatment to prolong their lives. In the majority of cases, treatment involves surgery and heated chemo.<br><br>If you or someone you love have been diagnosed with peritoneal cancer, contact our mesothelioma attorneys to learn how we can assist. We can connect you with mesothelioma specialists in your area and assist you in bringing a suit against the asbestos companies responsible for your exposure. We can also help you receive the financial compensation you're entitled to. Complete our online form to begin the process. We partner with the top [https://kingranks.com/author/rabbidouble0-1284501/ mesothelioma lawyers] to assist you in obtaining the most favorable possible outcome.<br><br>Diagnosis<br><br>To determine if you have peritoneal msothelioma it is important to have an extensive medical history. Doctors will ask patients about their asbestos exposure and when it occurred. A physical examination will be performed. Blood tests, X-rays, and CT scans are commonly employed in the initial examination.<br><br>Peritoneal mesothelioma is difficult to recognize due to its lengthy latency period. Patients may be afflicted by symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain, and fever that are similar to those of other conditions. These nonspecific symptoms may confuse doctors. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that can take years to manifest symptoms following exposure to asbestos, is a rare illness.<br><br>Inhaled or ingested asbestos fibers travel into the stomach lining, known as the peritoneum. Asbestos fibers that are sharp can irritate mesothelium when they reach the peritoneum. As time passes the irritation causes inflammation and scar tissue growth. In the end, this causes abnormal cell growth and tumors forming.<br><br>Researchers are working to develop methods to detect mesothelioma early. The stage of mesothelioma is the basis for the treatment options.<br><br>A mesothelioma specialist can perform paracentesis (percutaneous needle biopsy) to take a sample for laboratory testing. These tests can reveal the type of cancer cells (epithelioid or sarcomatoid) within the tumor, and assist doctors to develop a treatment strategy.<br><br>Mesothelioma specialists also evaluate the mesothelioma stage of a patient. The staging process determines which treatments will be the most effective and help [https://www.demilked.com/author/couchserver58/ mesothelioma attorneys] know which asbestos companies to hold liable in [https://www.demilked.com/author/virgobeach54/ mesothelioma lawsuits].<br><br>A mesothelioma specialist examines the results of a biopsy they produce an a pathology report which contains details about the type of mesothelioma. The report may also include an assessment system that outlines how the cancer has spread throughout the body. The higher the stage of cancer, the less likely the patient will respond to treatment. A lawyer can explain what this means for the client's case.<br><br>Treatment<br><br>Inhalation or swallowing asbestos fibers get encased in the tissues that line the abdomen and other organs. These fibers irritate the cells and damage DNA. This causes the formation of tumors. The majority of the time, peritoneal cancer develops in the lining of the abdomen. Peritoneal Mesothelioma affects more women than pleural Mesothelioma but it is less common.<br><br>The symptoms of peritoneal cancer are similar to those that are associated with digestive disorders like Crohn's disease and irritable colon disease which makes it difficult for doctors to identify. Initial symptoms may be mistaken for other ailments, and may persist for months or even years before a mesothelioma diagnosis is made.<br><br>In addition to an extensive medical history, a physician will perform imaging and blood tests to rule out other illnesses and conditions that could trigger the same symptoms as mesothelioma. These tests can be used to determine the most effective treatment options.<br><br>Since peritoneal mesothelioma is a cancer that develops the abdominal lining, a doctor will perform biopsy to confirm a diagnosis. A biopsy is the process of removing small samples from the affected area to be examined by pathologists. Biopsies can reveal cancerous cells as well as identify the mesothelioma type.<br><br>Once a peritoneal mesothelioma diagnosis has been confirmed, doctors will discuss treatment options with the patient. The purpose of any treatment plan is usually to reduce the size and quantity of tumors. Surgery is often the first option, however patients can also look into chemotherapy and immunotherapy.<br><br>In contrast to chest-based therapies for pleural mesothelioma that are administered via the lung, peritoneal mesothelioma treatments are administered intravenously or orally. Chemotherapy injections such as heated intraperitoneal therapy (HIPEC) has helped prolong survival for many patients. HIPEC was developed by mesothelioma expert Paul Sugarbaker.<br><br>Patients who have been diagnosed with peritoneal cancer may be eligible to bring an asbestos lawsuit against negligent companies. A knowledgeable mesothelioma attorney can review a patient's case and recommend legal options. Contact us now to begin. It's completely no cost, it's confidential and there is no obligation. We provide nationwide representation.<br><br>Prognosis<br><br>Mesothelioma cancer is rare. The doctors have limited experience with it, and many patients are wrongly diagnosed as having other diseases. A mesothelioma expert can assist patients with the diagnosis and ensure that they receive the proper treatment.<br><br>Asbestos exposure is only the one known cause of peritoneal mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to abdominal tissues as well as cell mutations when consumed or inhaled. Over time, this can cause tumors to form mesothelioma in the peritoneum.<br><br>Manufacturing or construction is often the first location where asbestos exposure begins. These industries may use materials that contain asbestos, for example, insulation and fireproofing. Asbestos can also be found in household products such as flooring and roof tiles. Even the smallest amount of exposure to asbestos can put someone at risk of mesothelioma. Because of the long period of latency patients may be diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma for a long time after their initial exposure.<br><br>Peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms could resemble those of other conditions and can be mistaken for a hernia, digestive issues such as Crohn's disease or colitis, or other types of abdominal cancer. Many patients do not disclose their asbestos exposure, and do not seek medical care. Doctors may suggest a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma lawsuit - [https://securityholes.science/wiki/The_Reasons_Mesothelioma_Lung_Cancer_Lawyers_Is_Everywhere_This_Year https://securityholes.science/],. A biopsy involves the removal of the smallest piece of tissue that is examined. This test will reveal if the mesothelioma is epithelioid (epidermoid) or Sarcomatoid (sarcomatoid) or biphasic.<br><br>If mesothelioma isn't spreading, doctors can remove the tumors. They will also provide a curative treatment. The specialist can also determine whether the cancer has spread to the abdomen. They will then recommend palliative treatment for the patient. For example paracentesis, which is a procedure to drain abdominal fluid.<br><br>The odds of survival are worse when mesothelioma is advanced. This is because the tumors can become resistant to certain treatments, and they may recur. The specialist may recommend the combination of chemotherapy and surgery. Surgical options include cytoreduction surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. This combination is more likely to improve the prognosis of a patient than merely chemotherapy alone.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Asbestos Symptoms<br><br>Peritoneal mesothelioma asbestos symptoms often affect the digestive system. This is because asbestos fibers get inhaled and then become a part of the stomach's lining known as the peritoneum.<br><br>Over time, these fibers cause changes in healthy peritoneal cells. Tumors that are cancerous develop in the peritoneum due to.<br><br>The diagnosis of mesothelioma may be a challenge. Early signs can be confused with symptoms of other conditions such as hernias or irritable Bowel Syndrome.<br><br>Signs and symptoms<br><br>When asbestos fibers are inhaled they can enter the lungs and travel throughout the body. The fibers can then get trapped in the linings the abdomen and other organs. This causes irritation and inflammation, which leads to tumor development. This process can take years to develop and many victims are unaware of their asbestos exposure until it's too late.<br><br>Asbestos fibers can get trapped in the tissues that line the abdominal cavity, or other organs, causing malignant peritoneal melanomas. It is the second-most common form of mesothelioma. However it is often difficult for doctors to identify since the first symptoms aren't specific. They can also be similar to gastrointestinal disorders. Patients with peritoneal cancer often experience fatigue, stomach pain and gastrointestinal problems.<br><br>After a physical examination followed by an examination of medical history, and a series of laboratory tests, mesothelioma patients are diagnosed with peritoneal cancer. A CT scan and an X-ray may help doctors identify lumps or any other signs of disease. In some cases, doctors who treat mesothelioma will also require a biopsy to make a more precise diagnosis.<br><br>Peritoneal Mesothelioma symptoms typically begin in the abdomen and can cause severe abdominal discomfort, bloating and weight loss. They can also trigger nausea and vomiting, as well as other digestive issues. Other symptoms include chest pain, swelling and fatigue. It is crucial for patients to seek a medical diagnosis when they have these symptoms as they may be caused by something other than mesothelioma.<br><br>Despite the difficulties in diagnosing patients with peritoneal msothelioma, they can often be treated to prolong their lives. In the majority of cases, treatment is surgery and chemo that is heated.<br><br>If you or someone you love have been diagnosed with peritoneal cancer, contact our mesothelioma attorneys to find out how we can help. We can help you locate a mesothelioma expert near you who can assist you in filing an asbestos lawsuit against the companies responsible for your exposure. We can also help you receive the financial settlement you are entitled to. Complete our online form to start the process. We can assist you to get the best possible outcome by working with top mesothelioma attorneys.<br><br>Diagnosis<br><br>To diagnose peritoneal Msothelioma it is crucial to have a an exhaustive medical history. Doctors will ask the patient about their asbestos exposure and the date it happened. They will also conduct a physical examination. Blood tests, X-rays, and CT scans are commonly employed in the initial examination.<br><br>Due to the long latency period, peritoneal mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize. Patients may be afflicted by symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain and fever that are similar to other illnesses. These symptoms aren't specific and could confuse doctors. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that can take years to show symptoms following exposure to asbestos, is a rare condition.<br><br>Inhaling or ingestion of asbestos fibers move to the stomach lining known as the peritoneum. Asbestos fibers that are sharp can irritate mesothelium after they reach the peritoneum. This irritation leads to scar tissue and inflammation over time. This leads to abnormal cell growth and tumors.<br><br>There are no FDA-approved screenings for peritoneal mesothelioma, but researchers are working on developing ways to identify the disease in its earliest stages. The stage of [http://idea.informer.com/users/lilacheart33/?what=personal mesothelioma lawyer] is the basis for the treatment options.<br><br>A mesothelioma specialist may perform paracentesis (percutaneous needle biopsy) to collect samples for laboratory testing. These tests can identify the kind of cancer cells (epithelioid biphasic, sarcomatoid, or epithelioid) within the tumor and help doctors develop a treatment strategy.<br><br>Mesothelioma specialists can also assess the mesothelioma stage of a patient. The staging process determines which treatments will be most effective and also helps [http://www.1v34.com/space-uid-550965.html Mesothelioma Lawsuit] attorneys know which asbestos-related companies to sue in mesothelioma lawsuits.<br><br>When a mesothelioma expert reviews the results from an examination, he or she creates a pathology report which contains details about the type mesothelioma. The report may also include a staging scale that indicates how far the cancer has spread across the body. The higher the stage is, the less likely it will respond to treatment. A lawyer can explain what this means for a client's case.<br><br>Treatment<br><br>Asbestos fibers can be breathed in or ingested and become embedded in the tissues lining the abdomen and other organs. These fibers irritate the cells and cause DNA damage. This leads to the development of tumors. Typically, peritoneal cancer develops in the lining that surrounds the abdomen. Peritoneal [http://www.bitspower.com/support/user/cloverhome0 mesothelioma lawyer] affects more women than pleural [https://www.metooo.io/u/66ea703bb6d67d6d17853f5c mesothelioma lawyers], however, it is less prevalent.<br><br>The symptoms of peritoneal cancer are similar to those seen with gastrointestinal disorders, such as Crohn's and irritable bowel disease which makes it difficult for doctors to diagnose. Early symptoms can be mistaken for other ailments and can last for a long time, or even years before mesothelioma diagnosis is made.<br><br>A doctor may also perform imaging and blood tests to rule out other conditions or diseases that could trigger mesothelioma-like symptoms. These tests can also be used to determine the best treatment options.<br><br>Because peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the abdominal lining A doctor will conduct a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis. A biopsy involves the removal of small amounts of the affected area for examination by pathologists. Biopsies can reveal cancerous cells and determine the type of mesothelioma.<br><br>After a peritoneal msothelioma is confirmed, doctors will discuss the treatment options with patients. The aim of any treatment plan is usually to reduce the size and number of tumors. Surgery is usually the first option, however patients can also look into chemotherapy and immunotherapy.<br><br>Contrary to chest-based treatment for pleural mesothelioma which is administered via the lungs, peritoneal Mesothelioma treatment is administered either intravenously or orally. Chemotherapy injections, such as heated intraperitoneal therapy (HIPEC), helped extend survival for many patients. HIPEC is a method that was invented by mesothelioma pioneer Paul Sugarbaker.<br><br>Individuals suffering from peritoneal cancer may be able to bring a lawsuit against negligent asbestos companies. A mesothelioma attorney can review the case of a patient and suggest legal options. Contact us today to begin. Contact us now. It's free, private, and there's no obligation. We provide nationwide representation.<br><br>Prognosis<br><br>Mesothelioma cancer is extremely rare. Doctors have limited experience with it, so many patients are mistakenly diagnosed with other illnesses. Fortunately mesothelioma specialists can assist in the diagnostic process and help patients receive the proper treatment.<br><br>Asbestos exposure is only the one known cause of peritoneal cancer. When asbestos fibers are breathed in or ingested, they could cause irritation to the tissues of the abdomen and cause cells to change. This may cause tumors to form mesothelioma in the peritoneum in time.<br><br>The exposure to asbestos usually is a result of jobs in manufacturing or construction. These industries could employ materials that contain asbestos, for example, insulation and fireproofing. Asbestos can also be present in household items like flooring and roof tiles. Even the smallest amount of asbestos exposure could put someone at risk of mesothelioma. Because the disease has a long time to develop patients may be diagnosed with peritoneal cancer decades after the initial exposure.<br><br>Peritoneal Mesothelioma can mimic other conditions. It is often mistaken for hernias, digestive issues such as colitis or Crohn's and other forms of abdominal cancer. Due to this, a lot of patients do not report their exposure to asbestos and they don't seek medical treatment. Specialists may recommend a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma. A biopsy involves the removal of the smallest piece of tissue to be tested. This procedure can reveal the stage of mesothelioma and whether it is epithelioid sarcomatoid or biphasic.<br><br>If mesothelioma has not spread it is possible to remove the tumors. They can also provide an option for curative treatment. The doctor can also determine if the cancer has spread within the abdomen. They will then recommend palliative care for the patient. For instance paracentesis, which is a procedure to drain the abdomen of fluid.<br><br>If a mesothelioma has advanced the chances of survival are less. This is because the cancer are able to become resistant to certain treatments and can develop a recurrence. The doctor may recommend a combination of chemotherapy and surgery. Options for surgery include cytoreduction and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemo. This combination is more likely than chemotherapy alone to improve the prognosis of the patient.

Revision as of 08:02, 24 December 2024

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Asbestos Symptoms

Peritoneal mesothelioma asbestos symptoms often affect the digestive system. This is because asbestos fibers get inhaled and then become a part of the stomach's lining known as the peritoneum.

Over time, these fibers cause changes in healthy peritoneal cells. Tumors that are cancerous develop in the peritoneum due to.

The diagnosis of mesothelioma may be a challenge. Early signs can be confused with symptoms of other conditions such as hernias or irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Signs and symptoms

When asbestos fibers are inhaled they can enter the lungs and travel throughout the body. The fibers can then get trapped in the linings the abdomen and other organs. This causes irritation and inflammation, which leads to tumor development. This process can take years to develop and many victims are unaware of their asbestos exposure until it's too late.

Asbestos fibers can get trapped in the tissues that line the abdominal cavity, or other organs, causing malignant peritoneal melanomas. It is the second-most common form of mesothelioma. However it is often difficult for doctors to identify since the first symptoms aren't specific. They can also be similar to gastrointestinal disorders. Patients with peritoneal cancer often experience fatigue, stomach pain and gastrointestinal problems.

After a physical examination followed by an examination of medical history, and a series of laboratory tests, mesothelioma patients are diagnosed with peritoneal cancer. A CT scan and an X-ray may help doctors identify lumps or any other signs of disease. In some cases, doctors who treat mesothelioma will also require a biopsy to make a more precise diagnosis.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma symptoms typically begin in the abdomen and can cause severe abdominal discomfort, bloating and weight loss. They can also trigger nausea and vomiting, as well as other digestive issues. Other symptoms include chest pain, swelling and fatigue. It is crucial for patients to seek a medical diagnosis when they have these symptoms as they may be caused by something other than mesothelioma.

Despite the difficulties in diagnosing patients with peritoneal msothelioma, they can often be treated to prolong their lives. In the majority of cases, treatment is surgery and chemo that is heated.

If you or someone you love have been diagnosed with peritoneal cancer, contact our mesothelioma attorneys to find out how we can help. We can help you locate a mesothelioma expert near you who can assist you in filing an asbestos lawsuit against the companies responsible for your exposure. We can also help you receive the financial settlement you are entitled to. Complete our online form to start the process. We can assist you to get the best possible outcome by working with top mesothelioma attorneys.

Diagnosis

To diagnose peritoneal Msothelioma it is crucial to have a an exhaustive medical history. Doctors will ask the patient about their asbestos exposure and the date it happened. They will also conduct a physical examination. Blood tests, X-rays, and CT scans are commonly employed in the initial examination.

Due to the long latency period, peritoneal mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize. Patients may be afflicted by symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain and fever that are similar to other illnesses. These symptoms aren't specific and could confuse doctors. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that can take years to show symptoms following exposure to asbestos, is a rare condition.

Inhaling or ingestion of asbestos fibers move to the stomach lining known as the peritoneum. Asbestos fibers that are sharp can irritate mesothelium after they reach the peritoneum. This irritation leads to scar tissue and inflammation over time. This leads to abnormal cell growth and tumors.

There are no FDA-approved screenings for peritoneal mesothelioma, but researchers are working on developing ways to identify the disease in its earliest stages. The stage of mesothelioma lawyer is the basis for the treatment options.

A mesothelioma specialist may perform paracentesis (percutaneous needle biopsy) to collect samples for laboratory testing. These tests can identify the kind of cancer cells (epithelioid biphasic, sarcomatoid, or epithelioid) within the tumor and help doctors develop a treatment strategy.

Mesothelioma specialists can also assess the mesothelioma stage of a patient. The staging process determines which treatments will be most effective and also helps Mesothelioma Lawsuit attorneys know which asbestos-related companies to sue in mesothelioma lawsuits.

When a mesothelioma expert reviews the results from an examination, he or she creates a pathology report which contains details about the type mesothelioma. The report may also include a staging scale that indicates how far the cancer has spread across the body. The higher the stage is, the less likely it will respond to treatment. A lawyer can explain what this means for a client's case.

Treatment

Asbestos fibers can be breathed in or ingested and become embedded in the tissues lining the abdomen and other organs. These fibers irritate the cells and cause DNA damage. This leads to the development of tumors. Typically, peritoneal cancer develops in the lining that surrounds the abdomen. Peritoneal mesothelioma lawyer affects more women than pleural mesothelioma lawyers, however, it is less prevalent.

The symptoms of peritoneal cancer are similar to those seen with gastrointestinal disorders, such as Crohn's and irritable bowel disease which makes it difficult for doctors to diagnose. Early symptoms can be mistaken for other ailments and can last for a long time, or even years before mesothelioma diagnosis is made.

A doctor may also perform imaging and blood tests to rule out other conditions or diseases that could trigger mesothelioma-like symptoms. These tests can also be used to determine the best treatment options.

Because peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the abdominal lining A doctor will conduct a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis. A biopsy involves the removal of small amounts of the affected area for examination by pathologists. Biopsies can reveal cancerous cells and determine the type of mesothelioma.

After a peritoneal msothelioma is confirmed, doctors will discuss the treatment options with patients. The aim of any treatment plan is usually to reduce the size and number of tumors. Surgery is usually the first option, however patients can also look into chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

Contrary to chest-based treatment for pleural mesothelioma which is administered via the lungs, peritoneal Mesothelioma treatment is administered either intravenously or orally. Chemotherapy injections, such as heated intraperitoneal therapy (HIPEC), helped extend survival for many patients. HIPEC is a method that was invented by mesothelioma pioneer Paul Sugarbaker.

Individuals suffering from peritoneal cancer may be able to bring a lawsuit against negligent asbestos companies. A mesothelioma attorney can review the case of a patient and suggest legal options. Contact us today to begin. Contact us now. It's free, private, and there's no obligation. We provide nationwide representation.

Prognosis

Mesothelioma cancer is extremely rare. Doctors have limited experience with it, so many patients are mistakenly diagnosed with other illnesses. Fortunately mesothelioma specialists can assist in the diagnostic process and help patients receive the proper treatment.

Asbestos exposure is only the one known cause of peritoneal cancer. When asbestos fibers are breathed in or ingested, they could cause irritation to the tissues of the abdomen and cause cells to change. This may cause tumors to form mesothelioma in the peritoneum in time.

The exposure to asbestos usually is a result of jobs in manufacturing or construction. These industries could employ materials that contain asbestos, for example, insulation and fireproofing. Asbestos can also be present in household items like flooring and roof tiles. Even the smallest amount of asbestos exposure could put someone at risk of mesothelioma. Because the disease has a long time to develop patients may be diagnosed with peritoneal cancer decades after the initial exposure.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma can mimic other conditions. It is often mistaken for hernias, digestive issues such as colitis or Crohn's and other forms of abdominal cancer. Due to this, a lot of patients do not report their exposure to asbestos and they don't seek medical treatment. Specialists may recommend a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma. A biopsy involves the removal of the smallest piece of tissue to be tested. This procedure can reveal the stage of mesothelioma and whether it is epithelioid sarcomatoid or biphasic.

If mesothelioma has not spread it is possible to remove the tumors. They can also provide an option for curative treatment. The doctor can also determine if the cancer has spread within the abdomen. They will then recommend palliative care for the patient. For instance paracentesis, which is a procedure to drain the abdomen of fluid.

If a mesothelioma has advanced the chances of survival are less. This is because the cancer are able to become resistant to certain treatments and can develop a recurrence. The doctor may recommend a combination of chemotherapy and surgery. Options for surgery include cytoreduction and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemo. This combination is more likely than chemotherapy alone to improve the prognosis of the patient.