Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.
Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs prior to its ban in the year 1970. Construction workers, miner, shipyard, factory, and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be located in the lungs and abdomen. However, it can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. It was employed in the construction of structures, homes aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these substances could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.
The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other illnesses, including lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may develop, such as fatigue and weight loss.
There are four types of mesothelioma, and each type has a different prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined with a microscopy. If cancer is discovered, the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 88% of mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for just 10% of all mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with a family history of mesothelioma. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. As time passes cells are damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors develop. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it shows its first signs. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to identify because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. At this point, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor might also suggest imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a physician to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine what kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive process.
During the biopsy, doctors remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and is more likely to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatments and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades in a variety of American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector in which it was utilized for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ship construction, buildings automobiles, and other products. People who worked in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. In time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which could cause tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common and affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing problems 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 heart's lining and cause unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses, it is important to see your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there is any changes in your body that may be connected to mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease however, family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, is a result of cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to form.
The main risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and consumed. Then, they can become trapped in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
The asbestos-related workers particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members could inhale them when they clean the clothing.
While mesothelioma can be uncommon, it's vital to seek out a physician to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. They may include chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been identified. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.
The right treatment can improve the chance of survival, even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this condition and the available treatments. athens asbestos lawyer 'll deliver it to you free of cost, with no obligation. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. You can also call an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma suit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the amount of compensation they deserve.