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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at the greatest danger of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the protective linings that protect various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances can cause mesothelioma for years after the exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may 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 lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumour that surrounds the vital organs.

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to check for cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma in their family. People who have had asbestos law-related radiation treatment are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed at work. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to appear. It is often misinterpreted as other illnesses, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient is in the end-stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses.

The doctor might also recommend scans for blood and imaging for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor might also request a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and determine the kind of mesothelioma the patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.

When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid with the first two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. For a long time it was employed in a variety of American industries because it was inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was employed to insulate and strengthen buildings, ships, automobiles and other products. People who worked in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time irritation causes scar tissue to build up and can cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma may affect different parts of the body. The most common mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and 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 linings of the heart causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases, it is important to see your physician if you notice any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct an examination and order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma related changes are present within your body.

Although mesothelioma does not transmit however, relatives of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher chance of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells in the body develop abnormalities and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors to form.

Exposure to asbestos is the primary mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was used in the construction industry and other fields before being banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or ingested. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos lawsuit legal (click here to read) workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members may breathe asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing.

Although mesothelioma is rare, it's important to consult a doctor if your symptoms are related to this disease. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform a chest X ray and a physical examination to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about treatment options. These might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer any questions you may have. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.