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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of organs internal to them. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at the greatest risk of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body known as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to build automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure. The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other illnesses like lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as fatigue and weight loss, may appear. There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most commonly used kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all types are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and hinders their function. When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is detected, the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the contrary, accounts for just 10% of all mesothelioma cases and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma. Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at risk of developing mesothelioma. The symptoms of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues which line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma, the most common type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain, and breathing problems. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it shows its first signs. Most of the time, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses. Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the late stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases. In addition to a physical examination 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 may be ordered by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgery or a minimally invasive procedure. When they perform an examination, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid or sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the former two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lining of the lungs (pleura), though it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop after asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. It was used for decades in many American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and fireproof automobiles, ships, buildings and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos. Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time irritation causes scar tissue to build up which can lead to tumors. Different types of mesothelioma can affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining, causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations. Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to consult your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform 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 help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are present within your body. Mesothelioma might not be contagious however, family members of asbestos-related exposure are more likely to developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing hair, skin and hair. These individuals could then inhale 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, causing tumors (masses) to form. The exposure to asbestos is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or eaten. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma. Workers who were exposed to asbestos, especially those who were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. However gainesville asbestos lawyer -collar workers and family members of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes. Although mesothelioma is rare, it is important to consult a doctor for any symptoms that could be linked to the condition. This includes 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. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been diagnosed. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced. The right treatment can increase the chances of survival, even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll ship it to you at no cost, with no obligation. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.