Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran workers are at risk the most of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, grows in the protective linings that protect various organs within the body called the mesothelium. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs and abdomen. However, it also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. Exposure to asbestos is the sole known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers who handled or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.
It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may emerge, like weight loss and fatigue.
There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and disrupts their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined using a microscopy. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. People who work in asbestos and military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related history are among the groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but include chest pain, coughing and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 year to begin showing symptoms. Most of the time, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this point the doctor will typically ask the patient about his or her previous exposure to asbestos and perform an examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.
carrollton asbestos law firm may also suggest imaging scans and blood tests for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
When they perform an examination, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung's lining (pleura), though it can also develop in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally that is heat-resistant, has properties. For a long time it was utilized in a variety of American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulating material in ships, buildings, cars and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue to grow which can lead to tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. The most common type of mesothelioma affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other illnesses. It is essential to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will conduct an examination and physical exam. They may also order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there is any changes within your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma might not be contagious but family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and even their hair. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells in the body develop abnormalities and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to develop.
The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in the construction industry and other fields before being banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or ingested. They may then get lodged in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members could inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing.
Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases It is still important to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be related to the disease. These include chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform a physical exam and chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
If mesothelioma is diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about possible treatment options. These might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine which treatments are available.
The right treatment can boost the chance of survival, even though there isn't a 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. We can also be reached by dialing 1-888-3146906. You can speak to a nurse any questions. A lawyer can be contacted to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.