Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees, and veterans are at highest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the protective linings that cover various organs within the body called the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly located in the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. Exposure to asbestos is the sole known mesothelioma causing factor. 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 cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these substances can lead to mesothelioma decades after exposure.
It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may emerge, like fatigue and weight loss.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.
If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma in all cases and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the contrary, accounts for less than 10% of mesothelioma 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 mesothelioma than others. People who work in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among these groups. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues which line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) and 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. It affects the lining of the lungs.
palatine asbestos law firm cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors develop. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins to show its first symptoms. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.
Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure, and then 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 imaging scans and blood tests for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and determine the type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.
When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or pericardium. About three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that are heat-resistant. It was used for decades in a variety of American industries because of its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect buildings, ships, automobiles and other products. Construction workers were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health problems. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue, which can result in tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence and affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most frequent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity which can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other diseases. It is crucial to see your doctor when any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct a physical examination and may 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 evident within your body.
Mesothelioma might not be contagious but relatives of asbestos-related exposure have a higher chance of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, skin and hair. These individuals could inhale 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 become abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
Asbestos exposure is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was utilized in the construction industry and other fields before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or ingested. Then, they can become lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.
People who worked with 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 family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members can inhale asbestos fibers when 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 condition. These include chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examination and chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor the doctor will speak with you about treatment options. These could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.
Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can increase the chances of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll send it to you free of cost, without commitment. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones get the compensation they deserve.