Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at the most danger of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers various organs in the body. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. However, it also can be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. Exposure to asbestos is the sole known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once popular in American industries due to its affordable and fire-proof. It was used to construct homes, buildings and automobiles. People who worked 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.
It is difficult to identify mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms could be observed, including fatigue and weight loss.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all types are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and hinders their function.
If a doctor suspects mesothelioma lawyers, they will order a biopsies to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under a microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, is responsible for only 10% of all mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with a family history of mesothelioma. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs inside such as the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most frequent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma lawyer vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to show. Often, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to identify because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or to rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. Imaging tests can include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine what type of mesothelioma a patient has. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors remove small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low price and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulating material in ship construction, buildings, cars and many other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. These fibers can easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which could lead to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence and affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms like breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining which can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may request imaging tests 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 present within your body.
Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but relatives of those exposed to asbestos have a higher chance of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells in the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor of mesothelioma. 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 fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They may then get lodged in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
mesothelioma attorney is most common in people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members may inhale asbestos fibers when they wash their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence, it is important to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be related to the disease. This includes chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform a chest X ray and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been diagnosed. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.
The right treatment can increase the odds of survival even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also call an attorney for a no-cost consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.