Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of organs internal to them. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations before it was banned in the year 1970. Construction workers, miner, shipyard, factory and veteran employees are at risk the most of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body known as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only known cause of 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 construct houses, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.
It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue, could develop.
There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumour that is located around vital organs.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered, patients can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a worse prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. People who work in asbestos, veterans of the military and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed at work. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this stage, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her past exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to help diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.
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. The doctor could also recommend an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and determine the type of mesothelioma a patient has. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and tends to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic form is a combination of the two primary types and is responsible for between 30 and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung lining (pleura), though it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with heat-resistant properties. For many years it was employed in a variety of American industries because does asbestos cause mesothelioma it is cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry where it was employed as a fireproofing and insulation material in buildings, ships, cars and many other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue that can lead to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lung. It is the most frequent mesothelioma form and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other illnesses so it is crucial to visit your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are evident in your body.
Although mesothelioma is not contagious, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at greater risk of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing hair, skin, and. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, starts when the cells of the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
Exposure to asbestos is the main risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in the construction industry and other fields before being banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They can then become lodged in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers as well as relatives of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members may inhale these fibers when they clean their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is rare, it is important to see a doctor for any symptoms that could be related to the disease. These include chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct a physical exam and chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma has been diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about treatment options. These could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.
Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.