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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miner, shipyard, factory and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. Most often, mesothelioma maligna forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was employed in the construction of homes, buildings aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. Workers who handled the material could have been exposed. Exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma decades after exposure. The initial signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other illnesses like lung cancer, which makes it difficult to identify. The initial symptoms may include difficulty breathing or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms could emerge, like fatigue and weight loss. There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However they all are identified with an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs. If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A sample of the affected area is examined under microscope. If cancer is detected patients are diagnosed with epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70% to 88% of mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, accounts for only 10% of all mesothelioma cases and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma. Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at chance of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma Symptoms Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that protect and line internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. The symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to identify because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases. Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will ask about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases. In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend blood tests or imaging scans 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 diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine what kind of mesothelioma the patient has. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive process. During the biopsy, doctors remove small pieces of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnoses. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung lining (pleura) however it can also form in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with heat-resistant properties. For many years it was employed in many American industries because it is inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was employed to insulate and strengthen vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of being exposed to asbestos. Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. These fibers are easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. As tulsa asbestos law firm , the irritation leads to scar tissue that can cause tumors. Different types of mesothelioma can affect various 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 common form of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations. Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases, it is important to consult your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination of your body and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma related changes are evident in your body. Although mesothelioma isn't contagious, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater chance of 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 asbestos exposure that is secondhand. Treatment for Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that begins when cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing the formation of tumors. The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was used in the construction industry and other fields before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or eaten. They can then become lodged within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. Workers who were exposed to asbestos, especially those who 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 might carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, and family members could inhale them when they clean the clothing. Although mesothelioma is rare however, it is essential to see a doctor if you have symptoms that could be related to the condition. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and whether you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct a chest X ray and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). If mesothelioma has been diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about the treatment options. These might include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced. The right treatment can boost the chance of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to nurses any questions. A lawyer can be reached to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your family get the amount of compensation you deserve.