Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miner shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran workers are at the greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers various organs in the body. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically located in the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries because it was affordable and fire-proof. It was employed in the construction of homes, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other lung cancer. Early symptoms include breathing problems and chest pain as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue, may appear.
There are four kinds of mesothelioma and each type has distinct prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects the lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and the peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined under microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for only 10% of all mesothelioma cases and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. People who work in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. In addition, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.
The symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos at work increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, the most common mesothelioma type. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time cells are damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors can develop. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to appear. Often, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.
Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. At this stage the doctor will generally ask the patient about his or her previous exposure to asbestos and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases.
In addition to a physical exam the doctor might also suggest blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a physician to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive process.
In an examination, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid with the two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two first types and is responsible for between 30% and 40 percent of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lung lining (pleura), though it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. For decades, it was used in a variety of American industries because it was affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, where it was employed to insulate and strengthen buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. Those who worked in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue to build up and can cause tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. The most common type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most prevalent form of mesothelioma, and it can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. tracy asbestos lawyer can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining, causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining and cause unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other diseases, it is important to see your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are forming in your body.
Although mesothelioma does not transmit, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by asbestos fibers. This type 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 expand uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to form.
The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. They can then be encased in the linings of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is most common in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may breathe asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothes.
Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to consult a doctor for any symptoms that could be related to the condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct a physical exam and a chest Xray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed-tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.
The right treatment can improve the chance of survival, even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll deliver it to you at no charge, no commitment. We can also be reached by dialing 1-888-3146906. You can ask a nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.