Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers, and veterans are at the highest danger of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that surround various organs within the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once popular in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was used to construct homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these substances can lead to mesothelioma decades after the exposure.
The initial signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other diseases such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to diagnose. The initial signs include chest pain, difficulty breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue, could develop.
There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, however all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and disrupts their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is detected patients are diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater chance of developing mesothelioma than others. Workers in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those with a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at chance of developing mesothelioma.
Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed during work. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year before it shows its first signs. Most of the time, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the late stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses.
The doctor might also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the abdomen or chest. Imaging tests can include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine which kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgical procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is typically found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) however it can also form in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. alaska asbestos lawsuit is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs has properties that resist heat. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and fireproof buildings, ships, automobiles and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.
Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. These fibers are easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue that can result in tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma is one that affects the lining in the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like pain, swelling, or digestive problems. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often misinterpreted as other illnesses, it is important to consult your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and may conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be caused by mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma may not be contagious however, family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher chance of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma, like other cancers starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres are ingested and inhaled. They can then be encased within the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.
Workers who were exposed to asbestos particularly those who were responsible for removing or handling it and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence It is still important to see a doctor for any symptoms that may be related to the disease. This includes chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examinations and chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been identified. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.
The right treatment can boost the chance of survival, even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll deliver it to you at no charge, no obligation. You can also reach us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also call an attorney for a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family members receive the compensation you deserve.