Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miner, shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is the liner that protects the organs in the body. Most often, mesothelioma maligna is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The exposure to asbestos is the sole known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was employed in the construction of houses, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos claim when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

The first signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to those of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to determine. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant 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 a different prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumour that encircles vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A sample of the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma, and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, is responsible for just 10% of mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at chance of developing mesothelioma than others. The Asbestos Legal-related workers or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. Additionally, people who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it shows its first signs. It is often mistaken for other illnesses such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to identify because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient is in the late stages of mesothelioma. At this point, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her previous exposure to asbestos and then perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

The physician may also recommend scans for blood and imaging for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests could include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgery or an 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, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic form is a mixture of the first two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that is heat-resistant, has 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 lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof buildings, ships, automobiles and other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of asbestos exposure.

Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. These fibers can easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue that can cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type, and it can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other ailments. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to see if any mesothelioma-related changes are forming within your body.

Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but family members of those exposed to asbestos are more likely to developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing hair, skin and hair. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, begins when cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The exposure to asbestos law is the primary mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral used in construction, among other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres are ingested and inhaled. They can then become lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in people who have worked with 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 could bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.

While mesothelioma can be rare, it's essential to consult a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and whether you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform a chest X ray and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been identified. This could include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about the disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.