Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at the most risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, develops in the protective linings that cover various organs in the body known as the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms could be observed, including weight loss and fatigue.
There are four types of mesothelioma, and each type has a different prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and disrupts their function.
If a doctor suspects 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 a microscope. If cancer is detected the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a worse prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.
Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma, the most common mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the cells get damaged. The genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years to begin showing symptoms. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.
Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and determine if there are other diseases.
The doctor may also suggest imaging scans and blood tests for the abdomen or chest. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine the kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgery or a minimally invasive procedure.
During the procedure, doctors take out mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic form is a mix of the two types and is responsible for between 30% and 40 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung's lining (pleura) however it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, has heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades in many American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction sector, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulation material in buildings, ships cars, and other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of exposure to asbestos.
Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. These fibers can easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which can cause tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma may affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. This is the most frequent mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining does asbestos cause mesothelioma of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma can be misinterpreted as other illnesses so it is crucial to consult your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do an examination and physical exam. They may also require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests help doctors determine if there is any changes within your body that could be related to mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma might not be contagious however, family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of secondhand asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma, like other cancers begins when cells in 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.
The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was used in construction and other industries before being banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They can then become lodged in the linings of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is most common in people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothing. Family members may inhale asbestos fibers when they wash their clothes.
Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to seek out a physician to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. This includes chest pain, breathing problems or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examination and a chest Xray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor the doctor will speak with you about the treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how it has advanced will determine which treatments are available.
The right treatment can boost the chances of survival, even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. You can also contact a lawyer for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.