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 exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations before it was banned in 1970. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at the highest risk of being exposed.
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Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that cover different organs of the body called the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna 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 each year. 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 cheap and fire-resistant. It was used to construct homes, buildings aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
The first symptoms of mesothelioma are usually similar to those of other illnesses such as lung cancer, making it difficult to determine. The initial signs 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 distinct types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, however all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and hinders their function.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is discovered, the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma, and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher chance of developing mesothelioma than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
The symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, the most frequent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain, and breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years to begin showing symptoms. Symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.
Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the late stages of mesothelioma. At this stage, the doctor will usually ask the patient about his or her previous exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
The doctor may also suggest blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine which kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.
When they perform an examination, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the former two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung's lining (pleura) but it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally that is heat-resistant, has properties. It was utilized for a long time in a variety of American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. Those who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily be swallowed or inhaled and cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue to grow and can cause tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma may affect different parts of the body. The most common mesothelioma type affects the lining in the chest cavity as well as the lung. This is the most frequent type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining which can 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.
Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other diseases. It is essential to see your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will conduct an examination and conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are present within your body.
Although mesothelioma does not transmit the family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk for developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. This kind 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 multiply uncontrollably. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
Asbestos exposure is the most significant mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They can then be encased in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.
The asbestos-related workers, especially those who were responsible for its removal or handling, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers and relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes, and family members may inhale them when they clean the clothing.
Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases It is still important to see a physician when you experience symptoms that could be related to the condition. These include chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and whether you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct a chest X ray 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 options for treatment with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. These might include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.
The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even if there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and what treatments are available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be reached to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the amount of compensation they deserve.