Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of organs internal to them. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium acts as a liner that protects the organs of the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Every 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. The people who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.
The initial signs of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other diseases like lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as fatigue and weight loss, may develop.
There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is found and the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. People who work in asbestos, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma history are among the groups. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
The symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that protect and line internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma, the most common mesothelioma type. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium, and over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins to begin showing symptoms. It is often mistaken for other illnesses, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.
Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this stage, the doctor will usually ask the patient about his or her past exposure to asbestos and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical exam, the physician may recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor may also order an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine what type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgical procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
When they perform an examination, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. mesothelioma asbestos lawsuit of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic variant is a combination of the two first types and is responsible for between 30 and 40 percent 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 the pericardium. About three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, has heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades in a variety of American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. People who worked in the construction industry were among those most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.
Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue, which can cause tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma type affects the lining in the chest cavity and lung. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. 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 heart's lining, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases, it is important to visit your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will allow doctors to see if any mesothelioma-related changes are forming within your body.
Although mesothelioma is not contagious however, relatives of those exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk of developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, skin and hair. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells within the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors to develop.
The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They can then be encased in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is most common in people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members may inhale these fibers when they clean their clothes.
Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to see a doctor for any symptoms that may be related to the disease. They may include chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examination and a chest Xray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include computed tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor the doctor will speak with you about the treatment options. These could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.
The right treatment can improve the chances of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatments available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you at no cost. We can also be reached by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can also ask nurses any questions. A lawyer can be contacted to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.