Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. The main risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations before it was banned in 1970. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran workers are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that protect various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings and automobiles. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue may develop.

There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most prevalent kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumour that encircles vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under a microscope. If cancer is detected and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma lawsuits on the other hand, is responsible for just 10% of mesothelioma lawyer-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. However, certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. The asbestos-related workers and military veterans and those with mesothelioma history are among these groups. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of mesothelioma lawyer.

Signs and symptoms of mesothelioma attorneys

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed at work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to begin to show. Symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. At this stage, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos and then perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases.

In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor might also request a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and determine the type of mesothelioma a patient has. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells can be either epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the former two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and tends to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic form is a mix of the two primary types and accounts between 30 and 40 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung lining (pleura), though it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, has heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades in a variety of American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was employed to insulate and strengthen vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Workers in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health issues. The fibers can be inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. In time irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate and can cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma can affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. It is the most prevalent form of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other illnesses so it is crucial to visit your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform an examination and physical exam. They may also request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are forming in your body.

Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease however, family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known 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 primary risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was widely used in the construction industry and other fields before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They can then be encased within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is rare, it's essential to seek out a physician in case your symptoms are linked to this disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will ask about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor, your doctor will talk with you about the treatment options. These might include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll send it to you free of cost, without commitment. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. You can also call an attorney for a no-cost consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit (My Page). We are dedicated to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.