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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of organs internal to them. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miner shipyard workers, factory workers, and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure.





What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the protective linings that cover various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma develops in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. Exposure to asbestos is the sole known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these substances could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.

The initial signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to the symptoms of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to determine. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue may develop.

There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumour that is located around vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under microscope. If cancer is detected patients are diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related family history. Additionally, people who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs inside such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years to begin showing symptoms. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma's final stages. At this point the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her previous exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.

The physician may also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests could include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and determine the kind of mesothelioma the patient is suffering from. The biopsy could be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

In a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter lives. Vimeo is more responsive to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. For decades it was utilized in many American industries because it is affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and fireproof automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the irritation causes scar tissue to build up, leading to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma can 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 common form of mesothelioma, and it can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can 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.

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other illnesses. It is crucial to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will perform an examination and request imaging tests to look for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are any changes within your body that could be related to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma does not transmit however, relatives of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers is a result of cells in the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. They can then become lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. However blue-collar workers and relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members may breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be linked to the condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform physical examination and chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been diagnosed. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the it has advanced will determine which treatments are available.

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, the correct treatment can improve the chance of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll send it to you free of cost, with no obligation. You can also reach us by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer your questions. You can also reach an attorney for a no-cost consultation on filing a mesothelioma suit. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.