Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.
Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in 1970. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees and veterans are at highest risk of being exposed.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was used to construct cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled the material could have been exposed. mesothelioma asbestosis to these chemicals could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other lung cancer. Early symptoms include breathing problems or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as fatigue and weight loss, could develop.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has unique symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumour that is located around vital organs.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the contrary, accounts for just 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. Workers in asbestos, veterans of the military and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.
Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer that 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 risk of developing mesothelioma. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. As time passes cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are chest pain, coughing and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. Symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this stage the doctor will generally inquire about the patient's or her previous exposure to asbestos and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases.
In addition to a physical exam 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. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and determine the kind of mesothelioma the patient has. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
In the procedure, doctors take out mesothelium from small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and has a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung lining (pleura) however it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that are heat-resistant. For many years it was utilized in many American industries due to its inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. Construction workers were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue that can result in tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma is one that 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 lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other illnesses. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will perform physical examinations and may conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are evident within your body.
Although mesothelioma isn't contagious, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater chance of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells within the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to form.
Asbestos exposure is the primary mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous material used in construction, among other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres are ingested and inhaled. They can then be encased within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is more prevalent in people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers and relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Family members can breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.
Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to see a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
If mesothelioma is diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about the treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.
The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even though there isn't a cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll deliver it to you free of cost, without commitment. You can also reach us by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma suit. We're committed to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.