Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The primary risk factor is asbestos compensation exposure.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at greatest danger of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is a liner that protects the organs of the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.
The initial signs of mesothelioma typically resemble the symptoms of other diseases such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to determine. The initial symptoms may include difficulty breathing, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue, could develop.
There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and disrupts their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents 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 are more at risk of developing mesothelioma than others. The asbestos-related workers and military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms
Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues which line and protect internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year before it shows its first signs. Most of the time, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma’s final stages. The doctor will inquire about the patient’s prior asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and to rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical exam the doctor might also suggest blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine which type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.
When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a combination of the two primary types and accounts between 30% and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was utilized for a long time in a variety of American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry where it was employed as a fireproofing and insulation material in ships, buildings automobiles and many other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of being exposed 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 be swallowed or inhaled and cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate, leading to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma may affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. This is the most frequent mesothelioma that can cause symptoms like breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect the heart’s lining, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and may conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are present within your body.
Mesothelioma may not be contagious however, family members of asbestos-related patients have a higher risk of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is a result of cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.
Asbestos exposure is the main mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was widely used in construction and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres are ingested and inhaled. They can then become trapped in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos Legal workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members can inhale these fibers when they wash their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is rare however, it is essential to see a physician for any symptoms that could be linked to the condition. They may include chest pain, breathing problems or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They’ll also perform a physical exam and a chest Xray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor, your doctor will talk with you about the treatment options. These could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.
Although there isn’t a cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can improve the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this disease and the available treatments. We’ll ship it to you at no cost, without obligation. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer your questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.
