Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees, and veterans are at the most danger of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body called the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. However, it can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to build cars, homes, and buildings. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
The initial signs of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other illnesses like lung cancer, which makes it difficult to diagnose. tampa asbestos lawsuit include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue may develop.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, however all types are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and hinders their function.
If 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 with a microscopy. If cancer is found, the patient can be diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. The asbestos-related workers and military veterans and those with mesothelioma history are among the groups. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. Symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. At this stage, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor might also suggest blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine the kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors take small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma cells could be either epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and tends to have shorter lives. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic variant is a mix of the two first kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung's lining (pleura) but it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs that is heat-resistant, has properties. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low price and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and fireproof buildings, ships, automobiles and other products. People who worked in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time, the irritation leads to scar tissue that can cause tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma may affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence and affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. This is the most common type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms like breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other illnesses, it is important to see your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do 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 help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are evident in your body.
Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but family members of asbestos-related exposure are more likely to developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, skin and hair. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells in the body become abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body, causing the formation of tumors.
Exposure to asbestos is the primary risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or ingested. They can then be encased within the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.
People who worked with asbestos and were responsible for its removal or handling and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers and relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes, and family members may inhale them when they clean the clothing.
Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's essential to seek out a physician to determine if your symptoms are connected to this disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will ask about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct a physical exam and a chest Xray to determine if you have 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 treatment options with you in case mesothelioma is diagnosed. This could include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.
The right treatment can improve the chances of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the treatment options available. We'll deliver it to you at no cost, without commitment. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to nurses any questions. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation regarding filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We're committed to helping you and your family receive the justice you deserve.