Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miner shipyard, factory and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is found in the linings that surround various organs in the body called the mesothelium. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. It was employed in the construction of structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. These early symptoms can include difficulty breathing and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue could develop.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumour that is located around vital organs.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma lawyers, they will request a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under the microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% of mesothelioma in all cases and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the contrary, accounts for less than 10% of mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma in their family. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at risk of developing mesothelioma lawsuit.
The symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues which line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, the most prevalent mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium and over time, the cells get damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and can include coughing chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. Symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. At this stage the doctor will generally ask the patient about his or her past exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.
In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine what mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two primary types and is responsible for between 30 and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.
Causes of mesothelioma attorneys
Mesothelioma is typically found in the lining of the lungs (pleura), though it can also develop in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with heat-resistant properties. For a long time it was utilized in many American industries because it was affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction sector, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulation material in ships, buildings, cars, and other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health problems. The fibers are easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue, which can result in tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma may affect various parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence and affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma form, and it can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other ailments. It is important to see your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will perform an examination and conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there is any changes within your body that could be related to mesothelioma.
Although mesothelioma isn't contagious however, relatives of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk of developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home 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 referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when the cells of the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to develop.
The exposure to asbestos is the primary mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They may then get lodged in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, while family members may inhale them when they clean the clothing.
Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to seek out a physician to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and whether you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct a chest X ray and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma lawsuits. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma is diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about treatment options. These could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how far it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.
Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma yet, the correct treatment can improve the chance of survival. Get your free mesothelioma lawyers Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll deliver it to you free of charge, no commitment. We can also be reached by dialing 1-888-3146906. You can speak to nurses any questions. You can also call a lawyer for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family members receive the amount of compensation you deserve.