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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 primary risk factor. Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations before it was banned in the year 1970. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at the most risk of being exposed. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that cover different organs of the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically located in the lungs and abdomen. However, it also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure. The first signs of mesothelioma usually resemble the symptoms of other diseases like lung cancer, which makes it difficult to determine. These early symptoms can include difficulty breathing or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue may develop. There are four types of mesothelioma, and each type has distinct prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that covers vital organs and hinders their function. When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is found the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70% to 88% of mesothelioma cases and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, is responsible for only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma in their family. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at risk of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma Symptoms Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed at work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung. Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time cells are damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are chest pain, coughing and breathing problems. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year before it shows its first signs. Symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses. Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and determine if there are other diseases. In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the kind of mesothelioma the patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure. During an examination, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and has a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung lining (pleura) but it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with heat-resistant properties. For decades, it was used in many American industries because it is cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction sector, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulation material in ships, buildings, cars and many other products. People who worked in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos. Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health problems. The fibers can be inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. In time irritation can lead to scar tissue that can lead to tumors. Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent and affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most common mesothelioma form and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms like chest pains or palpitations. Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other illnesses so it is crucial to consult your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma related changes are evident in your body. Mesothelioma might not be contagious but family members of asbestos-related exposure are more likely to developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing hair, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells within the body develop abnormalities and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form. livermore asbestos lawyer for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. They may then get lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar workers and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may breathe asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing. Although mesothelioma is rare, it is important to consult a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the condition. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will ask you about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform physical examination and a chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests could include a computed-tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma is diagnosed. These could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced. While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can increase the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this condition and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can ask a nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your family receive the justice you deserve.