Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees, and veterans are at greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the protective linings that cover various organs in the body called the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to build automobiles, homes, and structures. The people who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.
The initial signs of mesothelioma usually resemble the symptoms of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. These early symptoms can include breathing problems and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms can emerge, like fatigue and weight loss.
There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most prevalent kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under the microscope. If cancer is found, patients can be diagnosed with epithelioid or mesothelioma that is 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 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. People who work in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma history are among the groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years to begin showing symptoms. The symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. At this point the doctor will generally ask the patient about his or her prior exposure to asbestos and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases.
In addition to a physical exam the doctor might also suggest imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. lakewood asbestos law firm might also request a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine what type of mesothelioma a patient has. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgery or a minimally invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors take small samples of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic form is a combination of the two primary kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral has properties that resist heat. It was used for decades in a variety of American industries due to its low price and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Construction workers were at the highest 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. These fibers can easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation causes scar tissue to build up, leading to tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence that affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most frequent mesothelioma type, and it can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. 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.
Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination and conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are evident in your body.
Although mesothelioma does not transmit, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater risk for developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when the cells of the body become abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They may then get lodged within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Workers who were exposed to asbestos particularly those who were responsible for removing or handling it, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers as well as relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members may breathe them when they clean the clothes.
Although mesothelioma is rare however, it is essential to see a physician when you experience symptoms that could be related to the disease. These include chest pain, breathing problems or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform a physical exam and a chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma is diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about the treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.
Although there is no cure for mesothelioma but the correct treatment can improve the chance of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this disease and the treatment options available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be contacted to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones get the compensation they deserve.