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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at highest risk of being exposed.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers the various organs in the body. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. Exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries because it was inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these substances could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.
It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may emerge, like weight loss and fatigue.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and hinders their function.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under the microscope. If cancer is found the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma in all cases and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater chance of developing mesothelioma than others. Workers in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma lawsuit history are among the groups. Additionally, people 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 in the workplace increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent mesothelioma type. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to begin to show. Often, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.
Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma lawsuit to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. At this stage the doctor will generally ask the patient about his or her past exposure to asbestos and perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine which type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic form is a mix of the two first types and accounts between 30% and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma lawyer.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Around 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs, has heat-resistant properties. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries due to its low price and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Workers in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos.
Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which can lead to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common that affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often misinterpreted as other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct an examination and physical exam. They may also request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be connected to mesothelioma.
Although mesothelioma is not contagious, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at greater risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. These individuals could then inhale the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of secondhand asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells in the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body causing the formation of tumors.
The exposure to asbestos is the primary risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was widely used in construction and other industries prior to its ban in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or consumed. Then, they can become lodged in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is rare however, it is essential to see a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the disease. These include chest pain, breathing problems or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been diagnosed. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how it has advanced will determine which treatments are available.
Although 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 the disease and the treatments available. We'll ship it to you at no cost, with no commitment. You can also contact us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. You can also reach an attorney for a no-cost consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones get the amount of compensation they deserve.