Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber used in many 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 a liner that protects the organs of the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of houses, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.
The first signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to those of other diseases like lung cancer, which makes it difficult to diagnose. The initial symptoms may include difficulty breathing or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, such as fatigue and weight loss.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, but all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and disrupts their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under a microscope. If cancer is found and the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related family history. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues which line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed at work. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to show. Most of the time, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical exam the doctor might also suggest imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. Imaging tests can include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and determine the type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive process.
During the procedure, doctors take out small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and is more likely to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the two primary kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lining of the lungs (pleura), though it can also form in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that is heat-resistant, has properties. For a long time, it was used in a variety of American industries due to its affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was employed to insulate and strengthen automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk for exposure to asbestos.
Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation leads to scar tissue that can cause tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. The most common type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lung. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other diseases. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and may order imaging tests to check for abnormalities. colorado springs asbestos lawyer include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests help doctors determine if there is any changes within your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.
Although mesothelioma is not contagious however, relatives of those exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells within the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to develop.
The exposure to asbestos is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was utilized in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They can then become lodged within the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, while family members may breathe asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.
Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases It is still important to consult a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform a chest X ray and a physical examination to check for 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 diagnosed. These could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.
Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this condition and the available treatments. We'll ship it to you at no cost, with no obligation. We can also be reached by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We're committed to helping you and your family members receive the amount of compensation you deserve.