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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor. Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at greatest danger of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that cover various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. However, it also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. Asbestos exposure is the sole known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. It was employed in the construction of homes, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure. The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble the symptoms of other diseases like lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. The initial symptoms may include breathing difficulties, chest pain and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue may appear. There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most commonly used kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However they all are identified with an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs. When doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered patients are diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for only 10% of all mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma. Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk 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 radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at risk of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma Symptoms Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs inside, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma, the most prevalent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the cells get damaged. The genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years to show its first symptoms. Symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses. Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases. The physician may also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure. During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the first two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic variant is a combination of the two kinds and accounts for between 30 and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs, has heat-resistant properties. It was extensively used in many American industries because of its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos. Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. The fibers can be swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate and can cause tumors. Different types of mesothelioma may affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent and affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. This is the most common type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining which can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations. Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct an examination and order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are evident within your body. Mesothelioma might not be contagious however, family members of those exposed to asbestos are more likely to developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Mesothelioma, like other cancers starts when the cells of the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form. The exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma risk factor. 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 microscopic fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma. The asbestos-related workers and were responsible for its removal or handling and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members may inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing. Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to see a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. They may include chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. fort wayne asbestos lawyer 'll also perform physical examinations and a chest Xray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging. Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma is diagnosed. These might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has progressed will determine which treatments are available. The right treatment can increase the chances of survival, even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatments available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can ask nurses any questions. You can also call a lawyer for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.