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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure. Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations before it was banned in 1970. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at greatest danger of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers the various organs in the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. Asbestos exposure is the sole known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these chemicals could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure. It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may emerge, like fatigue and weight loss. There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most common form is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, however all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and hinders their function. If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is detected the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma, and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a poorer prognosis. Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with a family history of mesothelioma. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma Symptoms Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs inside such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, the cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. 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 those of other illnesses. Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. At this stage, the doctor will usually ask the patient about his or her past exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and to rule out other illnesses. In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend 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 could also recommend an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and determine the kind of mesothelioma that patient is suffering from. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive process. In a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid with the two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter lives. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the two primary kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that are heat-resistant. It was used for decades in many American industries because of its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry where it was employed as a fireproofing and insulating material in buildings, ships automobiles, and other products. philadelphia asbestos attorneys who worked in the construction industry were most at risk for exposure to asbestos. Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health issues. These fibers are easily swallowed and inhaled, and can irritate mesothelium. Over time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which can lead to tumors. Different types of mesothelioma may affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent form of mesothelioma and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other diseases. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will conduct an examination and physical exam. They may also request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are present within your body. Although mesothelioma is not contagious, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos 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 secondhand asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when the cells of the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors to form. The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous that was used in construction, as well as other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They can then become stuck in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes, and family members could inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing. Although mesothelioma is rare, it's important to seek out a physician in case your symptoms are linked to this condition. They may include chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform a physical exam and chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a 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 diagnosed. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced. The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even though there isn't a cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll send it to you free of cost, without obligation. You can also contact us by dialing 1-888-3146906. You can ask a nurse any questions. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.