Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.
Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs before it was banned in 1970. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers, and veterans are at the highest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, develops in the protective linings that cover various organs in the body called the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. 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 in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
It is difficult to identify mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to other lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms could develop, such as fatigue and weight loss.
There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma in their family. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lung.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to show. The symptoms are often confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.
Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor might also suggest blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. The doctor may also order an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and determine the type of mesothelioma a patient has. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.
During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the first two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that are heat-resistant. For decades it was employed in a variety of American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk for exposure to asbestos.
Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue that can cause tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. This is the most frequent mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other illnesses. It is essential to see your doctor when any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are changes within your body that could be connected to mesothelioma.
Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells within the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.
The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous material that was used in construction, as well as other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and consumed. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.
Workers who were exposed to asbestos particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is rare It is still important to consult a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will inquire about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
If mesothelioma is diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about the treatment options. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.
Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma, the correct treatment can improve the chance of survival. carmel asbestos lawsuit to find out more about this condition and the treatments available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you at no cost. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. You can also contact an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.