Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers, and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that cover various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.
It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to other illnesses like lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as fatigue and weight loss, may develop.
There are four types of mesothelioma, and each type has an individual prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural. montana asbestos lawyer affects lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, however all types are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and disrupts their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsies to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for 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 likely of developing the disease than others. Workers in asbestos and military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related history are among the groups. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues which line and protect internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lung.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. Often, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the kind of mesothelioma the patient is suffering from. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic variant is a mix of the two primary kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, has heat-resistant properties. For many years, it was used in many American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Workers in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue to build up, leading to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma may affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common that affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect the linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often misinterpreted as other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to consult your physician if you notice any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if there are any changes within your body that could be related to mesothelioma.
Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells in the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors to form.
The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in the construction industry and other fields before being banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.
Workers who were exposed to asbestos particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Family members can inhale asbestos fibers when they wash their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is rare It is still important to see a physician if you have symptoms that could be linked to the condition. These include chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma is diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about the treatment options. 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 improve the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this disease and the available treatments. We'll send it to you free of cost, with no commitment. We can also be reached by calling 1-888-3146906. You can ask an experienced nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family get the amount of compensation you deserve.