Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations before it was banned in 1970. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at the greatest risk of being exposed.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers various organs in the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. Asbestos exposure is the sole known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to construct homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers who handled the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these chemicals could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
The first symptoms of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other illnesses like lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. The initial symptoms may include breathing difficulties and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may emerge, like fatigue and weight loss.
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 types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumour that surrounds the vital organs.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under microscope. If cancer is found, the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have a family history of mesothelioma. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at risk of developing mesothelioma.
The symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed at work. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to begin to show. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.
Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the late stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure, and then perform a physical exam. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.
The physician may also recommend imaging scans and blood tests for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the kind of mesothelioma the patient is suffering from. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
In a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and has shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic variant is a mix of the two types and accounts between 30 and 40 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that resist heat. For many years, it was used in many American industries because it was affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health problems. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. Over time irritation can lead to scar tissue, which could result in tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma form and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases so it is crucial to visit your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform an examination and physical exam. They may also request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are forming in your body.
Mesothelioma may not be contagious but relatives of those exposed to asbestos have a higher chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells in the body become abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
Asbestos exposure is the primary mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was utilized in the construction industry and other fields before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They can then become lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.
passaic asbestos law firm is most common in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar workers and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, and family members may breathe them when they clean the clothing.
Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to consult a doctor if your symptoms are related to this disease. This includes chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your health history and if you 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 a computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma is diagnosed. This could include chemo, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.
The right treatment can improve the odds of survival even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll deliver it to you free of charge, no obligation. We can also be reached by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer your questions. You can also call an attorney for a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.