Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of organs internal to them. The main risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees and veterans are at the greatest risk of being exposed.
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Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the protective linings that surround various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it also can be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to construct homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.
The first signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to the symptoms of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. The initial symptoms may include breathing problems and chest pain as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may be observed, including fatigue and weight loss.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and the peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumour that encircles vital organs.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is discovered, the patient can be diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the contrary, accounts for just 10% of mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with a family history of mesothelioma. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal such as the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed at work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins to begin showing symptoms. Symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this point the doctor will generally inquire about the patient's or her past exposure to asbestos and then perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.
The physician may also recommend scans for blood and imaging for the abdomen or chest. Imaging tests could include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive procedure.
When they perform an examination, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that resist heat. It was used for decades in a variety of American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, where it was employed to insulate and strengthen buildings, ships, automobiles and other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health problems. The fibers can be swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to mesothelium. In time, the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate which can lead to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma may affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most frequent mesothelioma type and may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity which can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to consult your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct an examination and conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.
Although mesothelioma does not transmit however, relatives of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells within the body become abnormal and begin to expand 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 that was used in construction, as well as other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.
People who worked with asbestos particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members may breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.
While mesothelioma can be rare, it's important to consult a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. These include chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your health history and when you might 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 a computed-tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
If mesothelioma is diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about the treatment options. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.
While there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll send it to you at no cost, with no obligation. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation about filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family receive the justice you deserve.