The Most Pervasive Problems With Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of organs internal to them. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at the greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that cover various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. Asbestos exposure is the sole known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was employed in the construction of structures, homes, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these substances may cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

The initial signs of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other illnesses such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to diagnose. Early symptoms include breathing difficulties, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms could develop, such as fatigue and weight loss.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma and each type has distinct prognosis. The most common form is pleural. It affects lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However they all are identified with an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is detected the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for just 10% of all mesothelioma-related diagnoses 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 at greater chance of developing mesothelioma than others. People who work in asbestos, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed during work. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells are damaged and genetic changes cause them to become 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. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins to begin showing symptoms. Symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure, and then perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.

The doctor might also recommend imaging scans and blood tests for the abdomen or chest. Imaging tests may include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and determine the type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgery or a minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the former two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, has heat-resistant properties. It was extensively used in many American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof automobiles, ships, buildings and other products. Workers in the construction industry were the most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation causes scar tissue to build up which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma may affect different parts 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 form and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases so it is crucial to see your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct a physical examination and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious however, relatives of those exposed to asbestos are at greater risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, hair and skin. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells within the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous employed in construction, and other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or ingested. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may breathe asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.

Although tacoma asbestos law firm can be found in a small percentage of cases It is still important to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be linked to the disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform a chest X ray and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about treatment options. These might include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.


The right treatment can improve the odds of survival even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this disease and the treatments available. We'll deliver it to you at no cost, with no obligation. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family get the amount of compensation you deserve.