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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 the main 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 workers, factory employees and veterans are at the highest danger of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that protect various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. Exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma decades after the exposure. It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include difficulty breathing and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may develop, such as fatigue and weight loss. There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most commonly used kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, however all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that covers vital organs and hinders their function. If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have a family history of mesothelioma. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at chance of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma symptoms Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors develop. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to appear. The symptoms are often confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses. Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the late stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses. In addition to a physical exam the doctor might also suggest imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor might also request an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure. In an examination, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and is more likely to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis. 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 the pericardium. Around 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that resist heat. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of being exposed to asbestos. Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health problems. The fibers are easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue, which could cause tumors. Different types of mesothelioma may affect different parts of the body. The most common mesothelioma is one that affects the lining in the chest cavity as well as the lung. This is the most common mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive issues. chino hills asbestos law firm can also affect linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms like chest pain or palpitations. Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other diseases. It is important to see your doctor when any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma related changes are evident in your body. Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but relatives of asbestos-related patients are more likely to developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, hair and skin. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure secondhand. Treatment for Mesothelioma Mesothelioma, like other cancers is a result of cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors to develop. The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous employed in construction, and other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or ingested. They can then be encased in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. People who worked with asbestos, especially those who were responsible for removing or handling it and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers as well as family members of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, and family members could inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing. Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence, it is important to see a physician for any symptoms that may be related to the disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examination and a chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). If mesothelioma has been diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about possible treatment options. These may include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available. The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even though there isn't a cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about the disease and the available treatments. We'll send it to you at no cost, without obligation. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can also ask nurses any questions. A lawyer can be contacted 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 justice you deserve.