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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees, and veterans are at most risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the protective linings that cover various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be located in the lungs and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. It was used to construct cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other diseases, including lung cancer, which makes it difficult to identify. san mateo asbestos attorney may include breathing problems or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue, may develop.

There are four types of mesothelioma, and each type has distinct prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, however all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and hinders their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under the microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the contrary, accounts for only 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. The asbestos-related workers or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related history are among the groups. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs such as the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes 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 breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to show. Most of the time, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to identify because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient is in the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this point the doctor will generally ask the patient about his or her past exposure to asbestos, and perform an examination. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what kind of mesothelioma that patient has. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive process.

During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung lining (pleura), though it can also form in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally that is heat-resistant, has properties. It was extensively used in many American industries because of its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector in which it was utilized for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ships, buildings automobiles and many other products. 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 issues. These fibers can be easily be swallowed or inhaled and irritate the mesothelium. In time, the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate, leading to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma may affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence and affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most common mesothelioma form, and it can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other diseases. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are forming within your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at a greater chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing hair, skin and hair. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when the cells of the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was utilized in construction and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or ingested. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothes.

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence It is still important to see a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be related to the condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will ask you about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests could include a computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about possible treatment options. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can increase the chance of survival. Get 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 commitment. You can also reach us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. A lawyer can be contacted to arrange a no-cost consultation on filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family get the amount of compensation you deserve.