Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers, and veterans are at the most risk of being exposed.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that protect various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. However, it also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only known cause of 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 used to construct cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these chemicals could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.
The initial signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. The initial signs include chest pain, trouble breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue, may appear.
There are four types of mesothelioma and each type has an individual prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, however all types are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and hinders their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined using a microscopy. If cancer is found, patients can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a poorer prognosis.
Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma symptoms
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time cells are damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins to show its first symptoms. Most of the time, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.
Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. At this stage the doctor will generally inquire about the patient’s or her previous exposure to asbestos compensation and then perform an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine what type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic form is a combination of the two first types and accounts between 30 and 40 percent of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos attorney. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. For a long time it was employed in many American industries because it was inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos settlement industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were at the highest risk of being exposed to asbestos litigation.
Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. These fibers are easily inhaled and swallowed, and can irritate mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue, which can cause tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. The most prevalent type of mesothelioma affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lung. It is the most frequent mesothelioma form and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often misinterpreted as other illnesses, it is important to visit your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct a physical examination and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma might not be contagious but family members of asbestos-related patients have a higher chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when the cells of the body become abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.
The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral that was used in construction, as well as other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. They can then be encased in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
People who worked with asbestos particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes, and family members may breathe asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.
Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it’s essential to see a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. These include chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. They’ll also conduct physical examination and chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma has been identified. These may include chemo, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has progressed will determine what treatments are available.
Although there isn’t a cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we’ll send it to you for free. You can also contact us by calling 1-888-3146906. You can also ask a nurse any questions. You can also contact a lawyer for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.