Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran workers are at risk the most of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is the liner that protects the organs in the body. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. However, it also can form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. pomona asbestos law firm , mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. Asbestos exposure is the sole known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once popular in American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. It was used to build automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.
The first signs of mesothelioma usually resemble the symptoms of other diseases like lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. The initial symptoms may include difficulty breathing or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like fatigue and weight loss, could develop.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and hinders their function.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 88% of mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with a family history of mesothelioma. In addition, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Signs and 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 chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. Often, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.
Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. At this stage the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos and perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests could include CT scans or MRIs, 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 can be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive process.
During the biopsy, doctors take tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and has shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two primary types and accounts between 30 and 40 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is usually found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) but it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. For a long time, it was used in many American industries due to its affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulating material in ships, buildings cars and many other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of asbestos exposure.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. The fibers can be swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue to grow which can lead to tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lung. This is the most common type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining, causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other ailments. It is essential to see your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will conduct an examination and conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma-related changes are evident in your body.
Although mesothelioma is not contagious, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at greater risk of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes hair, skin and even their 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
Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells in the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing the formation of tumors.
Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor of mesothelioma. 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 fibers can be inhaled and consumed. They can then be encased in the linings 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 it or handling it. However blue-collar workers as well as family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members may breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.
Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's essential to consult a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. 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 may also perform a chest X ray and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma has been diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.
While there is no cure for mesothelioma but the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll ship it to you at no charge, no commitment. You can also reach us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. You can also contact a lawyer for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.