Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at greatest risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is found in the linings that cover various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these chemicals could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include breathing difficulties and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may be observed, including fatigue and weight loss.

There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma lawyers types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, but all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that covers vital organs and disrupts their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request 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 microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 88% of mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma in their family. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs in the internal such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The risk of developing mesothelioma lawsuits increases when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most frequent mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years to begin showing symptoms. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this point the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her previous exposure to asbestos, and perform an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or to rule out other illnesses.

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

During the biopsy, doctors take tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma lawyer cells can be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the first two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and tends to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two first types and is responsible for between 30 and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally, has heat-resistant properties. 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 asbestos exposure.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health problems. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate which can lead to tumors.

Different mesothelioma lawyers types affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common and affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like 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 illnesses. It is essential to see your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will conduct an examination and order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if there is any changes within your body that could be connected to mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma might not be contagious however, family members of asbestos-related patients have a higher chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers begins when cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

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

Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers and relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, while family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing.

Although mesothelioma is uncommon, it's vital to consult a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this disease. This includes chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and whether you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform physical examinations and a chest Xray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma lawsuits has been diagnosed. These might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.

The right treatment can boost the chance of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about the disease and the available treatments. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also contact us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. You can also call an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones get the amount of compensation they deserve.