Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard, factory, and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium acts as a liner that protects the organs in the body. Most often, mesothelioma maligna develops in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it also can form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct homes, buildings and automobiles. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, including fatigue and weight loss, may develop.
There are four kinds of mesothelioma, and each type has an individual prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Henderson asbestos lawsuits include the peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, however all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and interferes with their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under a microscope. If cancer is found the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. The asbestos-related workers or military environments, veterans of the military and those with a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. In addition, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs in the internal, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed during work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lung.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time cells are damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year to show its first symptoms. Symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or to rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor might also suggest imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the first two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lung's lining (pleura) however it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that are heat-resistant. It was extensively used in a variety of 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 fireproof buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. Construction workers were the most at risk of exposure to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation causes scar tissue to build up, leading to tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence, affecting the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. It is the most prevalent form of mesothelioma, and it 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.
Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other illnesses. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may 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 caused by mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease however, 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 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 starts when cells within the body develop abnormalities and begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to form.
Exposure to asbestos is the primary mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous that was used in construction, as well as other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. Then, they can become lodged in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
People who worked with asbestos particularly those who were responsible for removing or handling it, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers as well as relatives of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members may breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence however, it is essential to see a physician for any symptoms that could be related to the condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests could include a computed-tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been diagnosed. This could include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.
The right treatment can increase the odds of survival even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll send it to you at no cost, without obligation. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. You can also contact an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.