Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in the year 1970. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at greatest danger of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium acts as a liner that protects the organs of the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. roswell asbestos attorney is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was employed in the construction of structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these materials can cause mesothelioma for years after the exposure.
The first signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer, which makes it difficult to determine. Initial symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue, may appear.
There are four kinds of mesothelioma, and each type has an individual prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural. It affects lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and the peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and disrupts their function.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is found and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for 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 who have mesothelioma in their family. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at chance of developing mesothelioma.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, the most frequent mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain, and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years to show its first symptoms. Often, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine the kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors take tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lining of the lungs (pleura), though it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs, has heat-resistant properties. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries due to its low price and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of asbestos exposure.
Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health issues. The fibers can be swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate which can lead to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma may affect different areas of the body. The most common type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining which can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other diseases, it is important to visit your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct an examination and physical exam. They may also order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there is any changes within your body that could be related to mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma may not be contagious but family members of asbestos-related patients have a higher risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. 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
Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.
The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in construction and other industries before being banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or consumed. They can then become lodged in the linings of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members may inhale these fibers when they wash their clothes.
While mesothelioma can be uncommon, it's vital to seek out a physician if your symptoms are related to this disease. These include chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and whether you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform a chest X ray and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma has been diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about treatment options. These might include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.
Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can increase the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the treatment options available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you at no cost. You can also reach us by dialing 1-888-3146906. You can also ask nurses any questions. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family receive the justice you deserve.