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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. The main risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations prior to its ban in the year 1970. Miner, construction workers, shipyard, factory and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that protect different organs of the body called the mesothelium. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically located in the lungs and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The only reason that has been identified for 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 build cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these chemicals could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. asbestos and mesothelioma may include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue may appear.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma and each type has a different prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However they all are identified with an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.





When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, is responsible for only 10% of all mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. Workers in asbestos, veterans of the military and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among these groups. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues which line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years to show its first symptoms. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

The doctor may also suggest imaging scans and blood tests for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what type of mesothelioma a patient has. The biopsy can be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.

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

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time irritation can lead to scar tissue that can result in tumors.

Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common and affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most frequent form of mesothelioma and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other diseases. It is essential to see your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests help doctors determine if there is any changes in your body that may be caused by mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious however, relatives of those who were exposed to asbestos are at greater risk of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, hair and skin. 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

Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when the cells of the body become abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to develop.

Exposure to asbestos is the primary mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral that was used in construction, as well as other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or consumed. Then, they can become lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

The asbestos-related workers particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members could inhale them when they clean the clothing.

Although mesothelioma is uncommon, it's vital to seek out a physician if your symptoms are related to this disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a recurring cold are all signs. The doctor will ask you about your medical history, and ask if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma is diagnosed. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can increase the chance of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this disease and the available treatments. We'll deliver it to you at no cost, without obligation. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma suit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.