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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of organs internal to them. The main risk factor is asbestos exposure. Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations prior to its ban in the year 1970. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at the highest risk of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that surround various organs within the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these chemicals could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure. The first signs of mesothelioma usually resemble the symptoms of other diseases such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to identify. The initial symptoms may include breathing problems or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may be observed, including weight loss and fatigue. There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, however all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and disrupts their function. When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsies to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under the microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis. Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. Workers in asbestos, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at risk of developing mesothelioma. The symptoms of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but include chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to show. Often, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to other diseases. Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and to rule out other illnesses. The doctor may also suggest imaging scans and blood tests for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests could include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure. During the biopsy, doctors take small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a combination of the two kinds and accounts for between 30 and 40 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses. 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 pericardium. About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with heat-resistant properties. For a long time, it was used in many American industries because it is affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were at the highest risk of being exposed to asbestos. Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. In reno asbestos lawsuit causes scar tissue to grow which can lead to tumors. Different types of mesothelioma can affect different areas of the body. The most common mesothelioma is one that affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and can trigger symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect the heart's lining which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other diseases. It is important to see your doctor when any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma. Although mesothelioma is not contagious however, relatives of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells in the body become abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing the formation of tumors. Exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or ingested. They may then get lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma. People who worked with asbestos and were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members can inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes. Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence It is still important to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be related to the condition. Trouble breathing, chest pain, or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical examination to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. This could 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 boost the chances of survival, even if there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this disease and the available treatments. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to a nurse any questions. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation about filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We're committed to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.