Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.
Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations before it was banned in 1970. Construction workers, miner shipyard, factory, and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, is found in the linings that protect different organs of the body called the mesothelium. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically located in the lungs and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these materials could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial signs include chest pain, trouble breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue, could develop.
There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, but all are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and hinders their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is found, the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma in their family. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most frequent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to appear. Most of the time, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases.
The doctor might also recommend imaging scans and blood tests for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.
During norwalk asbestos lawyer , doctors remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and has shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid kind 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 mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally, has heat-resistant properties. For decades, it was used in a variety of American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry in which it was utilized for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ships, buildings cars and many other products. Workers in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.
Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which could cause tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most common mesothelioma type affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most frequent type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to consult your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that could be connected to mesothelioma.
Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater risk for developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure that is 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 parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral used in construction, among other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or ingested. Then, they can become lodged in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is most common in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members could inhale them when they clean the clothing.
Although mesothelioma is rare however, it is essential to see a doctor for any symptoms that could be related to the condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a recurring cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and whether you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
If mesothelioma has been diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about treatment options. This could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.
The right treatment can increase the odds of survival even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know 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. You can ask a nurse any questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma suit. We are committed to helping you and your family receive the justice you deserve.