Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs before it was banned in the year 1970. Miners, construction workers shipyard workers, factory employees and veterans are at the greatest danger of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium acts as a liner that protects the organs in the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries because it was inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.
The first signs of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other illnesses such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to diagnose. The initial symptoms may include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like fatigue and weight loss, may develop.
There are four kinds of mesothelioma, and each type has an individual prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined using a microscopy. If cancer is found patients are diagnosed with epithelioid, or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, is responsible for just 10% of mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. Workers in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those with a history of mesothelioma are among these groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma symptoms
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues 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 at work. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung.
Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it shows its first signs. Most of the time, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's past asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and determine if there are other diseases.
In addition to a physical exam, the physician may recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and determine the kind of mesothelioma the patient has. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive process.
In a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic variant is a combination of the two types and is responsible for between 30% and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. It was used for decades in a variety of American industries because of its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulation material in ships, buildings automobiles and many other products. tampa asbestos law firm who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. The fibers can be inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue to build up and can cause tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent that affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent form of mesothelioma and can trigger symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive problems. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct an examination and order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are present in your body.
Mesothelioma may not be contagious but relatives 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 home asbestos fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure secondhand.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing the formation of tumors.
Asbestos exposure is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous material that was used in construction, as well as other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. They may then get lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.
The asbestos-related workers particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members could inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.
Although mesothelioma is rare, it's essential to see a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this disease. They may include chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire 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 look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. This could include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.
While there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatment options available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you at no cost. We can also be reached by dialing 1-888-3146906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.