Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.
Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations before it was banned in 1970. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran workers are at the greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The exposure to asbestos is the sole known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to build automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.
It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may emerge, like weight loss and fatigue.
There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects the lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined with a microscopy. If cancer is discovered and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues that line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma, the most frequent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to appear. The symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. At this stage the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her past exposure to asbestos, and perform an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.
The physician may also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.
In the procedure, doctors take out small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells could be either epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and has shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two first types and accounts between 30% and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung's lining (pleura) however it can also form in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). About 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally has properties that resist heat. For decades it was employed in a variety of American industries due to its inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry where it was employed as a fireproofing and insulating material in ships, buildings, cars and other items. Construction workers were the most at risk of exposure to asbestos.
Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. The fibers can be inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue, which can cause tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common and affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. This is the most frequent type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive problems. It can also affect the heart's lining and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may request imaging tests to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are forming within your body.
Although mesothelioma isn't contagious the family members of those exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. These individuals could then 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 starts 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.
The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, new bedford asbestos attorney are ingested and inhaled. They may then get trapped in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is most common in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothes.
Although mesothelioma is rare however, it is essential to consult a doctor if you have symptoms that may be related to the condition. Trouble breathing, chest pain, or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and whether you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct a chest X ray and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests could include computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma has been identified. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.
While there is no cure for mesothelioma but the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll deliver it to you free of cost, with no commitment. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.