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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of organs internal to them. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations before it was banned in 1970. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at highest risk of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, develops in the protective linings that surround various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it also can be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. Exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries because it is cheap and fire-resistant. It was used in the construction of automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure. The initial signs of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other diseases such as lung cancer, making it difficult to determine. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As longview asbestos lawyer progresses, more severe symptoms may be observed, including fatigue and weight loss. There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, however all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that covers vital organs and disrupts their function. If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under microscope. If cancer is detected the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a worse prognosis. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. The asbestos-related workers or military environments, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related history are among the groups. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at chance of developing mesothelioma. Symptoms of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs inside, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed during work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lung. Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are chest pain, coughing and breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. It is often mistaken for other diseases, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other diseases. Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma's final stages. At this stage, the doctor will usually ask the patient about his or her previous exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases. In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend 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 could also recommend a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive process. When they perform the procedure, doctors take out mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatments and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is typically found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) but it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral has properties that resist heat. For a long time it was utilized in a variety of American industries because it was inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. Workers in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos. Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed, and can irritate mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue that can cause tumors. Different types of mesothelioma can affect various 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 trigger symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining which can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, 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 ailments. It is important to see your doctor when any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will conduct an examination and order imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are present in your body. Although mesothelioma isn't contagious however, relatives of those exposed to asbestos are at greater risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, begins when 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. Exposure to asbestos is the primary mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was used in construction and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma. People who worked with asbestos and were responsible for removing or handling it and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers and relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members could inhale asbestos fibers when they wash their clothes. Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to consult a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. They may include chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and whether you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. This could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available. Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can improve the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the treatment options available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. You can also reach us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. You can also call an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones get the compensation they deserve.