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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of internal organs. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at most danger of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of structures, homes, ships, airplanes and automobiles. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these materials can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. These early symptoms can include difficulty breathing, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may be observed, including weight loss and fatigue.

There are four types of mesothelioma and each type has an individual prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, is responsible for only 10% of all mesothelioma-related 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 at greater chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma in their family. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues which line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. As time passes cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. The symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's past asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and to rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. asbestos lawsuit may also order a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what kind of mesothelioma that patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and accounts between 30 and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lung lining (pleura) but it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Around 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.





Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally that is heat-resistant, has properties. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulation material in buildings, ships, cars and many other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue to build up, leading to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma can affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma is one that affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most common mesothelioma type and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity which can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases, it is important to see your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are evident in your body.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious however, family members of asbestos-related patients are more likely to developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that begins when cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was utilized in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or eaten. Then, they can become trapped in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Workers who were exposed to 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 family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members may breathe asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.

Although mesothelioma is rare, it is important to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be linked to the condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform a physical exam and chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests can include computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor the doctor will speak with you about possible treatment options. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how far it has progressed will determine which treatments are available.

The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about the disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll send it to you at no cost. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to nurses any 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 family get the compensation you deserve.