Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.
Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in the year 1970. Construction workers, miner shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran workers are at the greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the protective linings that protect various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once popular in American industries because it is inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these chemicals could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.
The initial signs of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other diseases like lung cancer, which makes it difficult to identify. The initial symptoms may include difficulty breathing or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like fatigue and weight loss, may appear.
There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has a different prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and interferes with their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined with a microscopy. If cancer is found and the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the contrary, accounts for less than 10% of all mesothelioma cases and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
springdale asbestos attorneys who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at chance of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, the most common mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to begin to show. It is often mistaken for other illnesses, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
The doctor may also suggest imaging scans and blood tests for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter lives. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lining of the lungs (pleura), though it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that is heat-resistant, has properties. For decades it was utilized in a variety of American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. These fibers are easily inhaled and swallowed, and can irritate mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue that can lead to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common and affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. It is the most prevalent form of mesothelioma and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other illnesses. It is crucial to see your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct an examination and physical exam. They may also require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there is any changes in your body that could be connected to mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma may not be contagious but relatives of those exposed to asbestos are more likely to developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and even their hair. These individuals could then inhale the asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.
Exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in construction and other industries prior to its ban in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They can then become lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.
The asbestos-related workers, especially those who were responsible for removing or handling it and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, blue-collar workers and even family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.
Although mesothelioma is rare, it's important to seek out a physician to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform a chest X ray and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor your doctor will discuss with you about possible treatment options. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.
While there is no cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can improve the chances of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll send it to you at no cost, with no commitment. We can also be reached by calling 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 dedicated to helping you and your family members receive the compensation you deserve.