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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs prior to its ban in the year 1970. Miner, construction workers, shipyard, factory and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. Most often, mesothelioma maligna is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. Asbestos exposure is the sole known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was employed in the construction of homes, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure. It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include difficulty breathing or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms could develop, such as weight loss and fatigue. There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different 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) and testicular and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, however all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and interferes with their function. If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under the microscope. If cancer is found patients are diagnosed with epithelioid, or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma-related diagnoses 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 at risk of being diagnosed with the disease than other. The asbestos-related workers and military veterans and those with mesothelioma history are among the groups. In addition, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma. Mesothelioma symptoms Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues which line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells are damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to show. Often, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases. Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. At this stage, the doctor will usually ask the patient about his or her past exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases. In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the type of mesothelioma a patient has. The biopsy could be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure. In pawtucket asbestos attorney , doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be either epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic variant is a combination of the two primary kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings and the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, has heat-resistant properties. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulation material in ship construction, buildings cars and many other products. People who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos. Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. The fibers can be swallowed and inhaled, and can irritate mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue, which could lead to tumors. Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma form and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as pain, swelling, or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination and request imaging tests to look for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors see if any 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, skin and hair. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells in the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form. Exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous material employed in construction, and other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or ingested. Then, they can become trapped in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members could inhale these fibers when they clean their clothes. Although mesothelioma is rare, it's essential to consult a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will inquire 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 check for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging. If mesothelioma is diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about the treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced will determine which treatments are available. Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll send it to you free of cost, without commitment. We can also be reached by calling 1-888-3146906. You can ask a nurse any questions. A lawyer can be contacted to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.