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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor. Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at most risk of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? The mesothelium acts as a liner that protects the organs in the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. Exposure to asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries because it is inexpensive and fireproof. It was employed in the construction of houses, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure. It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial signs include chest pain, trouble 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 distinct prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs. If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis. 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. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma. The symptoms of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs. danbury asbestos attorneys cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to appear. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses. Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will ask about the patient's past asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and to rule out other illnesses. The doctor may also suggest scans for blood and imaging for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine what kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure. During the biopsy, doctors remove small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma cell can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) but it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (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 to develop after exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with heat-resistant properties. 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, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulating material in ships, buildings cars and other items. Construction workers were at the highest risk of asbestos exposure. Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily be swallowed or inhaled and cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate which can lead to tumors. Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms like breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like pain, swelling, or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other illnesses. It is crucial to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may order imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests help doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be connected to mesothelioma. Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk of developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. 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 Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when the cells of the body develop abnormalities and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to develop. The exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in construction and other industries prior to its ban in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or consumed. They may then get trapped in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar workers, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, and family members could inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing. Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's essential to consult a doctor if your symptoms are related to this condition. This includes chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examination and a chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging. Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma is diagnosed. This could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced. Although there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this disease and the treatment options available. We'll deliver it to you free of charge, no obligation. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to a nurse any questions. You can also call a lawyer for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.