Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of organs internal to them. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations prior to its ban in the year 1970. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers, and veterans are at the most risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is the liner that protects the organs of the body. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma gets 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 price and fire resistance. It was used to construct homes, buildings aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances can lead to mesothelioma decades after exposure.
The first signs of mesothelioma usually resemble the symptoms of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to determine. These early symptoms can include breathing problems and chest pain as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms could emerge, like weight loss and fatigue.
There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most common kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However, all types are characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined with a microscopy. If cancer is discovered, patients can be diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. troy asbestos attorneys represents only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater chance of developing mesothelioma than others. People who work in asbestos, veterans of the military and those with a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.
Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor might also suggest imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.
When they perform the procedure, doctors take out small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid or sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the former two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was utilized for a long time in a variety of American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was employed to insulate and strengthen buildings, ships, automobiles and other products. Construction workers were the most at risk of exposure to asbestos.
Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. The fibers can be inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue, which can result in tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. The most prevalent type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity and lung. It is the most common mesothelioma form, and it can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases so it is crucial to see your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will do an examination of your body and may require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma related changes are forming in your body.
Although mesothelioma does not transmit, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of secondhand asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells in the body become abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was widely used in construction and other industries before being banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and ingested. Then, they can become lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is most common in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may breathe them when they clean the clothing.
Even though mesothelioma may be uncommon, it's vital to seek out a physician in case your symptoms are linked to this condition. They may include chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been diagnosed. These might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.
While there is no cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can increase the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll send it to you for free. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer your questions. You can also reach an attorney for a no-cost consultation about filing a mesothelioma suit. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.