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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor. Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees and veterans are at the most risk of being exposed. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, is found in the linings that cover various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct automobiles, homes, and structures. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure. It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing problems or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may emerge, like fatigue and weight loss. There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, however all types are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and disrupts their function. When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined using a microscopy. If cancer is detected the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, is responsible for less than 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma. Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. People who work in asbestos, veterans of the military and those with a history of mesothelioma are among these groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma Symptoms Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, the most common mesothelioma type. It affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years to show its first symptoms. Most of the time, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases. Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses. In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor may also order an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what kind of mesothelioma that patient has. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure. When they perform an examination, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic form is a combination of the two kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. About three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure. Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades in many American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry where it was employed as a fireproofing and insulating material in ships, buildings cars and other items. Workers in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos. beaverton asbestos law firm who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. Over time irritation causes scar tissue to build up, leading to tumors. Different types of mesothelioma can affect various parts of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma type affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lung. It is the most common mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations. Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do an examination and physical exam. They may also request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that could be connected to mesothelioma. Mesothelioma might not be contagious however, family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand. Treatment for Mesothelioma Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when the cells of the body develop abnormalities and begin to expand uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form. The exposure to asbestos is the main risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous that was used in construction, as well as other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They may then get lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma. Workers who were exposed to asbestos, especially those who were responsible for its removal or handling, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members can breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes. Although mesothelioma is rare, it is important to see a physician if you have symptoms that may be related to the disease. These include chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed-tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor your doctor will discuss with you about possible treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available. While there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can improve the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll ship it to you free of cost, with no commitment. We can also be reached by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the amount of compensation they deserve.