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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The main risk factor is asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers, and veterans are at highest danger of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers various organs of the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries because it was inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure. It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial signs include chest pain, difficulty breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue, could develop. There are four kinds of mesothelioma and each type has a different prognosis. The most commonly used kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs. If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is detected patients are diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the contrary, accounts for only 10% of all mesothelioma cases and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma than others. The asbestos-related workers and military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of mesothelioma. Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs such as the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma, the most prevalent mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium, and over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to appear. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other diseases. Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this point, 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 exam the doctor might also suggest imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure. During the biopsy, doctors take small pieces of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma cell. The mesothelioma cells could be either epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and tends to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic variant is a mixture of the two first kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung lining (pleura) however it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure. Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries due to its low price and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were at the highest risk of exposure to asbestos. Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. These fibers are easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time, the irritation causes scar tissue to grow which can lead to tumors. Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent that affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most common type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like pain, swelling, or digestive problems. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may require imaging scans to look 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. Although mesothelioma does not transmit the family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater chance of developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin, and. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form. The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous material used in construction, among other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and consumed. They can then be encased in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma. The asbestos-related workers particularly those who were responsible for removing or handling it in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. waukegan asbestos lawyer could inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes. Even though mesothelioma may be uncommon, it's vital to see a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this condition. These include chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and whether you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform a physical exam and chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma has been diagnosed. This could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has progressed will determine which treatments are available. Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can improve the chance of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. You can also contact us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. You can also call a lawyer for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.