Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.
Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations before it was banned in 1970. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers, and veterans are at the greatest risk of being exposed.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) 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 annually. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma lawsuit-related cause. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these substances could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.
The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other diseases such as lung cancer, making it difficult to determine. These early symptoms can include breathing difficulties, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as fatigue and weight loss, could develop.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects the lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined with a microscopy. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents 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 risk of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma in their family. Additionally, people who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is found in the tissues which protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, the most prevalent mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma attorneys can vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain, and breathing problems. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year before it shows its first signs. Symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will ask about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases.
The doctor might also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive process.
During the biopsy, doctors take small samples of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma attorney cell can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the first two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung lining (pleura), though it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral has properties that resist heat. It was utilized for a long time in a variety of American industries due to its low price and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry where it was employed as a fireproofing and insulating material in buildings, ships cars and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. These fibers can easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. In time, the irritation causes scar tissue to build up and can cause tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma can affect different parts of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma is one that affects the lining in the chest cavity and lung. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms such as breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your physician if you notice any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there are changes within your body that could be related to mesothelioma.
Although mesothelioma does not transmit, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater risk of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, skin and hair. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that starts when the cells of the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.
The exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was widely used in construction and other industries prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres are ingested and inhaled. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma lawyers.
Workers who were exposed to asbestos particularly those who were responsible for removing or handling it and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers and relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing.
Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence, it is important to see a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be linked to the disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a recurring cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma is diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about the treatment options. This could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The mesothelioma attorneys type and how far it has progressed will determine what treatments are available.
The right treatment can improve the chance 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 send it to you at no cost. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can ask an experienced nurse any questions. You can also contact a lawyer for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.