mesothelioma lawsuitsMesothelioma is a form of cancer that is found in the organ's lining, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It is usually caused by asbestos exposure. which is a grouping of minerals that is composed of microscopic fibers.
Mesothelioma can develop anywhere between 20 and 60 year after exposure. X-rays and blood tests can help diagnose mesothelioma, as well as reveal how far it has taken over.
Pleural Mesothelioma
Pleural Mesothelioma is a malignant cells grow in the lining of the lung (pleura). Pleura is a two-layer of tissue that surrounds most organs. Msothelioma pleural cancer is most commonly located in the lungs or chest wall. It can trigger symptoms like a breathlessness, chest pain, and breathing difficulties.
Asbestos exposure is the most frequent cause of mesothelioma pleural. When asbestos fibers from the air are inhaled, they could be absorbed by the throat and into the lungs which can cause damage to the lining. This can lead to inflammation and scarring, which could cause changes that result in out of control cell growth.
Some people exposed asbestos may not experience symptoms for decades after exposure. This is because mesothelioma can take several years or more to develop. Males and male-born individuals are more likely to be diagnosed with mesothelioma. Other diagnoses that are common include older adults who worked in industries that employed asbestos in large quantities before it was controlled, or those who served in the Navy.
The symptoms can vary depending on where the tumor is located and are usually caused by elevated pressure or swelling in the affected lung. These symptoms can include coughing, back or chest pain or weight loss that isn't explained, and fatigue. X-rays or CT or MRIs can be used to diagnose to rule out other medical conditions that could be causing similar symptoms. If pleural mesothelioma is identified by doctors, they will determine the stage of the disease in order to determine the best treatment options.
The staging system is established by the International Mesothelioma Interest Group. The first step to determine the stage is taking a biopsy and reviewing the medical history of the patient. X-rays and chest MRI are also used to determine if there are any abnormalities, or tumors that could be indicative of mesothelioma.
There are three distinct types of mesothelioma which can be classified according to the type of cells that form: Epithelioid Mesothelioma: The most commonly encountered kind of malignant mesothelioma (60 percent to 80percent of cases). It is easier to treat when compared to other types. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is the second-most common type of mesothelioma (between 10 15% and 10 percent of cases). It is more difficult than epithelioid.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma
The peritoneum (the inner lining of the abdominal cavity) is affected by peritoneal mesothelioma. It is less frequent than the pleural variant. Like all mesothelioma forms the peritoneal mesothelioma is a result of asbestos exposure. However, unlike pleural mesothelioma, people are more likely to develop this form of mesothelioma by ingesting asbestos fibers rather than inhaling them. This type of mesothelioma generally occurs in older individuals and is more common in women than men.
The early stages of mesothelioma are difficult to identify because of the lack of specificity. Experts in
mesothelioma attorneys are able to recognize the disease. Doctors can diagnose mesothelioma taking detailed patient histories and imaging tests and blood tests.
If mesothelioma has been diagnosed the doctor will determine the stage of the cancer by using the TNM system. This staging system describes how the tumors have spread and influences treatment options. The lower the stage the more treatment options are available.
Because peritoneal mesothelioma is rare, it can be difficult to identify. It can present with symptoms that are similar to other conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract and abdomen, such as abdominal pain, fever, and weight loss. Patients experiencing symptoms that are not explained should consult with a physician.
The doctor will perform an examination of the body and then take basic blood tests. If these tests show the possibility of having a cancer, an oncologist will perform more in-depth diagnostic tests, such as biopsies. This will give a clear image of a person's health and identify any potential mesothelioma symptoms.
Asbestos exposure is the main cause of mesothelioma cases in all forms. The exposure to asbestos is usually in the workplace, but it can also happen at home or in schools. Asbestos exposure can be extremely dangerous when it is for a long period of time. Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that can develop when asbestos particles or dust enter the body, causing irritation or inflammation. Over time the inflammation and irritation can cause cells to mutate into cancerous cells and create tumors. The cancerous tissue that is created can later infiltrate other tissues and cause symptoms like abdominal discomfort as well as weight gain, fever and swelling.
Cardiovascular Mesothelioma
Pericardial mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the heart's lining, or pericardium. This kind of mesothelioma makes up less than 1% of mesothelioma, and is difficult to diagnose due to the similar signs that heart disease sufferers experience. In the end, many people receive a diagnosis of heart disease before doctors confirm that they have pericardial mesothelioma.
Like other types of mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos can cause pericardial cancer. Asbestos fibers are believed to enter the pericardium via the bloodstream. The fibers then travel to other organs like the heart. Pericardial mesothelioma usually occurs in the outer layer of the pericardium, but it can also occur in the inner layer. Pericardial mesothelioma has a worse prognosis than other forms of mesothelioma.
Chest pain, fatigue and breathing difficulties are all symptoms of pericardial Mesothelioma. Because of the rarity of this mesothelioma type, it is especially important for victims to have an extensive medical exam. It is important to inform your doctor if they've had any asbestos exposure in the past.
A CT scan or echocardiogram is usually the first step in diagnosing mesothelioma. These tests can reveal the presence of fluid around the heart, and also any visible pericardial tumors. If these tests reveal the presence of mesothelioma doctors may perform additional procedures to confirm the diagnosis. This could include a biopsy or radiation.
A mesothelioma biopsies is a procedure where a small piece of tissue is taken from the affected area, and then examined under the microscope. This will enable doctors to determine the stage and type of
mesothelioma lawsuit.
Patients suffering from mesothelioma may be treated in cancer centers and special hospitals across the nation. Depending on the type of mesothelioma that is being treated, options for treatment could include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Some patients may be eligible to receive free or low-cost health care through the Department of Veterans Affairs. For victims of mesothelioma, this financial assistance is vital in making treatment more accessible. Contact a VA-approved
mesothelioma attorney (
this content) to learn more about the benefits available to you.
Reproductive Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma may begin in the linings that cover organs in the chest and abdomen. It can also form in the lining surrounding the testicles and heart (pericardium and tunica vaginalis). It is more prevalent in men than women, although the cause isn't fully understood. The exposure to asbestos is the primary risk factor. The signs usually don't appear until years after exposure.
Mesothelioma is more prevalent in people exposed to asbestos during work. In the majority of instances chest pains or persistent cough are the first symptoms. Mesothelioma may be misdiagnosed as these symptoms are similar to other lung conditions. Once diagnosed, the patient may undergo a number of tests to determine how much the cancer has spread and the stage at which it is.
These tests may involve imaging scans like X-rays or CT scans. A biopsy may be performed by the mesothelioma expert to confirm the diagnosis. The biopsy may be done by using a laparoscopic needle or core needle. The biopsy should be carried out by a peritoneal-mesothelioma specialist. General medical oncologists are not qualified to diagnose peritoneal msothelioma and may misdiagnose it.
The results of the mesothelioma test will help doctors decide on the most effective treatment plan for you. Treatment will depend on the severity of the cancer and your general health. Treatments include chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. It is possible to manage symptoms.
Chemotherapy is an effective treatment for the majority of mesothelioma. These drugs can also affect healthy cells. They can damage ovarian tissues, which can affect fertility. This is especially relevant for peritoneal asbestosis which affects the region around the reproductive organs.
The severity and type of mesothelioma, as well as your age and general health will determine how quickly you're treated and also your prognosis. In the UK approximately 2700 people are diagnosed mesothelioma every year. The condition is typically found in the linings around the abdomen and lungs (peritoneum) however, it can also develop around the testicles and the heart.