Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard, factory, and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the protective linings that cover various organs in the body known as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs and abdomen. However, it can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of structures, homes aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos litigation as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.

The first symptoms of mesothelioma usually resemble the symptoms of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue may develop.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most common kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and disrupts their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma than others. Workers in asbestos, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed at work. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but include coughing, chest pain and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year before it shows its first signs. Most of the time, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos law exposure until the patient is in the late stages of mesothelioma. At this stage the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her previous exposure to asbestos and then perform a physical examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and determine if there are other diseases.

The doctor may also suggest imaging scans and blood tests for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests could include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what kind of mesothelioma that patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors take small samples of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung lining (pleura) however it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that resist heat. For decades, it was used in many American industries because it is inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos settlement industry was especially profitable for the construction industry in which it was utilized for fireproofing and as an insulation material in buildings, ships cars and other items. Construction workers were at the highest risk of Asbestos Legal exposure.

Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. These fibers can easily be swallowed or inhaled and cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common and affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most common type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining, causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.

Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases so it is crucial to visit your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform an examination of your body and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if there are any changes within your body that could be related to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious the family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher chance of developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos legal fibers on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. These individuals could then inhale the asbestos lawsuit fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells within the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous material used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in people 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 bring asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.

While mesothelioma can be uncommon, it's vital to consult a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this 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. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include 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 identified. These could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. You can also call a lawyer for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma suit. We're committed to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.