Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.
Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in 1970. Santa Ana asbestos lawyers , miner shipyard, factory and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers various organs of the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.
It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue, may develop.
There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, however all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and disrupts their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for less than 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. Workers in asbestos, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related history are among the groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at chance of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (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 can cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to show. Often, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.
Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and to rule out other illnesses.
The physician may also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the abdomen or chest. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.
In a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid or sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter lives. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lung lining (pleura), though it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally has properties that resist heat. For decades it was employed in a variety of American industries because it is affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. Construction workers were at the highest risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed, and can irritate mesothelium. In time, the irritation leads to scar tissue that can lead to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. The most common mesothelioma type affects the lining in the chest cavity and lung. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases so it is crucial to see your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform physical examinations and may order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there is any changes in your body that may be caused by mesothelioma.
Although mesothelioma is not contagious however, relatives of those exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk for developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is a result of cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.
The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in construction and other industries before being banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or consumed. They may then get lodged in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
The asbestos-related workers particularly those who were responsible for removing or handling it in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Family members can breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.
Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's essential to seek out a physician to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a recurring cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and whether you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examinations and a chest Xray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include computed tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
If mesothelioma is diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about treatment options. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has progressed will determine what treatments are available.
The right treatment can increase the chance of survival, even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and what treatments are available. No obligation, we'll send it to you for free. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer your questions. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.