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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor. Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations before it was banned in the year 1970. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at greatest risk of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. The only cause that is known 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 in the construction of homes, buildings and automobiles. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure. The first signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to those of other illnesses such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to identify. The initial symptoms may include difficulty breathing, chest pain and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, such as fatigue and weight loss. There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most prevalent kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs. If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is found, patients can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater chance of developing mesothelioma than others. People who work in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma. The symptoms of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues that 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 during work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common mesothelioma type. It affects the lining in the lungs. Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium, and over time, the cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to begin to show. Symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses, such as pneumonia or the flu. westminster asbestos attorney is also difficult to diagnose, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses. Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's past asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses. The physician may also recommend imaging scans and blood tests for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure. In a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the first two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and accounts between 30% and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung's lining (pleura) however it can also form in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs has properties that resist heat. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulation material in ship construction, buildings cars and other items. Those who worked in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos. Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue, which can lead to tumors. Different types of mesothelioma may affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common and affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent form of mesothelioma, and it can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties 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 lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other diseases. It is crucial to see your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct an examination and order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will allow doctors to see if any mesothelioma-related changes are forming in your body. Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease however, family members of asbestos-related patients are more likely to developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, hair and skin. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of secondhand asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Mesothelioma, like other cancers starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to form. Exposure to asbestos is the most significant mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous material employed in construction, and other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or consumed. Then, they can become stuck in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. The asbestos-related workers and were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members may breathe asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing. While mesothelioma can be uncommon, it's vital to seek out a physician in case your symptoms are linked to this disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examination and a chest Xray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests could include a computed-tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). If mesothelioma has been diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about possible treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has progressed will determine the type of treatment available. Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma but the correct treatment can improve the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll send 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. You can also call a lawyer for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.