Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at the greatest danger of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers various organs of the body. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be located in the lungs and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma lawyer annually. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct homes, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue may appear.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma and each type has distinct prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However they all are identified with an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma attorney, they will request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under a microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues which protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most frequent mesothelioma lawyer type. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years to begin showing symptoms. It is often mistaken for other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. At this point the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her past exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine which type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.

During an examination, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be either epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more responsive 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 mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every 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 naturally occurring mineral with heat-resistant properties. It was extensively used in many American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulating material in ship construction, buildings automobiles and many other products. Workers in the construction industry were the most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed, and can irritate mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue, which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. This is the most frequent type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other diseases. It is essential to see your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct an examination and physical exam. They may also require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma-related changes are present in your body.

mesothelioma attorneys might not be contagious but relatives of asbestos-related exposure are more likely to developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers begins when cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to develop.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma lawyer is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was utilized in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They may then get lodged in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Workers who were exposed to asbestos particularly those who were responsible for removing or handling it, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers as well as relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members could inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases It is still important to see a doctor if you have symptoms that may be related to the condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will ask about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct a physical exam and a chest Xray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been diagnosed. This could include chemotherapy, 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 improve the chance of survival, even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can ask a nurse any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a no-cost consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit (discover here). We are dedicated to helping you and your family members receive the compensation you deserve.