Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at highest risk of being exposed.
What is
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Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that protect various organs within the body called the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The exposure to asbestos is the sole known
mesothelioma lawyers-related cause. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of structures, homes, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances can lead to mesothelioma decades after the exposure.
It is difficult to identify mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing problems and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like fatigue and weight loss, may develop.
There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and disrupts their function.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under a microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma in all cases and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. Workers in asbestos and military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related history are among the groups. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing
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Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos at work increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung.
Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the cells get damaged. The genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and breathing problems. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins to show its first symptoms. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.
Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until late-stage
mesothelioma attorney. At this stage, the doctor will usually ask the patient about his or her past exposure to asbestos and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or to rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive process.
During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and is more likely to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mixture of the two primary types and accounts between 30% and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that are heat-resistant. It was utilized for a long time in a variety of American industries due to its low price and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry where it was employed for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ship construction, buildings automobiles and many other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. These fibers can easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. In time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which could lead to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma is one that affects the lining in the chest cavity and lung. This is the most frequent mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other illnesses. It is crucial to see your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will perform physical examinations and may request imaging tests to look for abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors determine if
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Mesothelioma may not be contagious but relatives of asbestos-related exposure have a higher risk of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, hair and skin. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when the cells of the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral that was used in construction, as well as other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They can then become lodged within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is more prevalent in people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members may inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes.
Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases however, it is essential to see a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the disease. This includes chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform a physical exam and a chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma has been diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about the treatment options. This could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.
Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma yet, the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the available treatments. We'll ship it to you free of cost, without commitment. You can also contact us by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation about filing a
mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.