Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs before it was banned in 1970. Construction workers, miner shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran workers are at risk the most of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers various organs of the body. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The exposure to asbestos is the sole known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue, may develop.
There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has an individual prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, but all are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and interferes with their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsies to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under microscope. If cancer is found the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a poorer prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. Workers in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma history are among these groups. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs in the internal such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed at work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year to show its first symptoms. It is often mistaken for other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.
Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's past asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases.
The physician may also recommend imaging scans and blood tests for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors take small samples of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter life. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the first two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung's lining (pleura) but it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). About three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades in many American industries because of its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of asbestos exposure.
Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health issues. These fibers can easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. Over time irritation can lead to scar tissue, which can cause tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma may affect various parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent form of mesothelioma and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like pain, swelling, or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other ailments. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Lafayette asbestos lawyers will perform an examination and conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there is any changes within your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease however, family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher chance of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, skin and hair. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of secondhand asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is a result of cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. 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 mineral that is fibrous that was widely used in construction and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres are ingested and inhaled. They may then get lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.
The asbestos-related workers and were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members could inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.
While mesothelioma can be rare, it's important to seek out a physician in case your symptoms are linked to this condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will ask about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor the doctor will speak with you about treatment options. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.
The right treatment can improve the chance of survival, even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll deliver it to you at no cost, with no obligation. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can ask a nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.