Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at most danger of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, grows in the protective linings that protect different organs of the body called the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. Asbestos exposure is the sole known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it was inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of houses, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these substances may result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.
It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. Early symptoms include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including fatigue and weight loss, could develop.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, however all types are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and hinders their function.
If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under a microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at chance of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms
Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes cells are damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. Symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.
waco asbestos attorneys do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's past asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor may also order an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine what kind of mesothelioma that patient has. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
In the procedure, doctors take out mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic variant is a mix of the two primary types and accounts between 30 and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. About 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs has properties that resist heat. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk for exposure to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health problems. These fibers are easily inhaled and swallowed, and can irritate mesothelium. Over time irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate and can cause tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma form and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity which can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other ailments. It is crucial to see your doctor if any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body and may require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma might not be contagious but family members of asbestos-related exposure are more likely to developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells within the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to form.
Exposure to asbestos is the primary risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was utilized in the construction industry and other fields before being banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or consumed. They may then get lodged within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among 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 bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothing. Family members can breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.
While mesothelioma can be uncommon, it's vital to see a doctor if your symptoms are related to this disease. These include chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history, and ask if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examinations and chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma is diagnosed. This could include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.
The right treatment can improve the chances of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this condition and the treatments available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer your questions. A lawyer can be reached to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We're committed to helping you and your family receive the justice you deserve.