Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of organs internal to them. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in 1970. Construction workers, miner, shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, develops in the protective linings that protect different organs of the body called the mesothelium. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically located in the lungs and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The exposure to asbestos is the sole known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. The people who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these materials could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other illnesses like lung cancer, which makes it difficult to diagnose. Early symptoms include breathing problems or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue, may appear.
There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects the lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, however all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and interferes with their function.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under a microscope. If cancer is detected the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for only 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
The symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lung.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain, and breathing problems. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. Often, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's prior asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses.
The physician may also recommend imaging scans and blood tests for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. West Jordan asbestos lawsuits is often requested by a doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.
When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low price and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry, where it was used for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ships, buildings, cars, and other products. Workers in the construction industry were the most at risk for exposure to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. These fibers are easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue that can lead to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type, and it can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other ailments. It is essential to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and may conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but family members of asbestos-related exposure have a higher risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when the cells of the body develop abnormalities and begin to grow out of control. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
Asbestos exposure is the main mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was utilized in construction and other industries before being banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or ingested. They can then be encased in the linings of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.
The asbestos-related workers and were responsible for removing or handling it, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members may inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.
Although mesothelioma is rare however, it is essential to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that may be related to the disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will ask you about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform a physical exam and a chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests could include a computed tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been identified. These could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.
The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even if there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. We can also be reached by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can ask nurses any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family get the compensation you deserve.