Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

asbestos lawsuit was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs prior to its ban in 1970. Miner, construction workers, shipyard, factory and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the protective linings that protect various organs in the body called the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna develops in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was used to construct homes, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances can lead to mesothelioma decades after the exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to other illnesses like lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms can develop, such as weight loss and fatigue.

There are four types of mesothelioma, and each type has an individual prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, however all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and hinders their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma in all cases and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, accounts for less than 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

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

Mesothelioma symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to Asbestos legal in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, the most prevalent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

asbestos legal fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, the cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. 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 symptoms to begin to show. Most of the time, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses.

The doctor may also suggest scans for blood and imaging for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine which type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgical procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors take tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two first types and is responsible for between 30% and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung lining (pleura) however it can also form in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). About 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos litigation. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. For a long time it was employed in a variety of American industries due to its affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulating material in buildings, ships, cars and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health problems. These fibers are easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue, which could cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma can affect various parts of the body. The most common mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. This is the most common type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms like breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as pain, swelling, or digestive problems. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other diseases. It is important to see your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may order imaging tests 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 evident within your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious, family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a greater chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos attorney fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

Asbestos exposure is the most significant mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous material that was used in construction, as well as other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or ingested. They may then get lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

Workers who were exposed to asbestos particularly those who were responsible for removing or handling it in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers, and even the family members of asbestos lawyer workers are at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members may inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is uncommon, it's vital to consult a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will ask about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform a physical exam and chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests could include a computed-tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about the treatment options. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma but the correct treatment can improve the chances of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatments available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. You can also reach a lawyer for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma suit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the compensation they deserve.