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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations 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? Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body called the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly located in the lungs and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma. 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 houses, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these materials could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure. The initial signs of mesothelioma usually resemble the symptoms of other diseases such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to determine. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including fatigue and weight loss, may appear. There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most common form is pleural. It affects lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and interferes with their function. When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a poorer prognosis. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma in their family. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma symptoms Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lung. Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells are damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. vacaville asbestos attorneys can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. Symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other diseases. Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases. In addition to a physical examination the doctor might also suggest blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests can 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 kind of mesothelioma the patient is suffering from. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure. During the procedure, doctors take out small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two primary types and accounts between 30% and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is usually found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) but it can also occur in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and fireproof automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Those who worked in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos. Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health issues. The fibers can be inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue, which could result in tumors. Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. The most common mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity and lung. This is the most frequent mesothelioma that can cause symptoms like breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining which can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations. Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other diseases. It is essential to see your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are present within your body. Although mesothelioma does not transmit the family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, hair and skin. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Mesothelioma, just 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, leading to tumors (masses) to form. The main risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral used in construction, among other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or eaten. Then, they can become stuck in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers and family members of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members may breathe them when they clean the clothes. Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence however, it is essential to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be related to the disease. Trouble breathing, chest pain, or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and whether you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging. Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been identified. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced. Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll send it to you for free. We can also be reached by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer any questions you may have. You can also call an attorney for a no-cost consultation on filing a mesothelioma suit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family receive the justice you deserve.