Mesothelioma - A Rare Asbestos Disease

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that is found in the inner organs' linings, most commonly the lung (pleura) and, less frequently the abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos results in an higher risk of developing this disease.

The main risk factor for mesothelioma involves exposure to asbestos, which is a non-flammable and heat-resistant fiber. However, symptoms can take years to develop following exposure.

Signs and symptoms

Mesothelioma, a cancerous tumor that develops in the tissues lining the lungs and heart is caused by asbestos fibers. It usually occurs when people inhale asbestos fibers that get into the bloodstream and get absorbed in the organ's lining. The people most likely to suffer from this disease are those who worked around asbestos lawsuit, like miners, plumbers, carpenters and welders. It can also occur in people who lived with workers who brought asbestos home on their clothing or skin. Other people at risk are those who work in households where asbestos is present and those who disturb asbestos during home renovations or maintenance.

There are four stages to mesothelioma. People who are in the early or middle stages do not show symptoms and can go on for years before they are diagnosed. By the time cancer is detected it has progressed and is difficult to treat.

The signs of mesothelioma do not usually appear until decades after exposure. The disease is slow to develop because asbestos fibers must travel from the lungs to other parts of the body before they can cause mesothelioma. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the lung's lining (pleural mesothelioma) but it can be found in the lining of the stomach or the heart. It may also be found in the linings of reproductive organs.

A biopsy of the area affected is the most effective way to help doctors to determine if mesothelioma is present. The specimen is then examined under microscopes to determine whether the cancerous cells are mesothelioma or another kind of cancer.

Doctors can also order x-rays, CT scans or MRI to determine the cause and see whether there is a tumor, a thickening or enlargement of the lining in the abdomen or chest, and fluid in the chest cavity. They may also recommend a lung function test to determine how well a person's lungs are working.

A misdiagnosis of mesothelioma can be harmful because it may delay the start of treatment, which could improve the prognosis of a patient. It is therefore important to consult a doctor whenever you experience any signs. A GP will evaluate the symptoms and signs and determine if a person has a history of exposure to asbestos.

Diagnosis

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that occurs in the mesothelium. The mesothelium is the lining that protects the body's internal organs which include the abdominal cavity and the chest. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma that affects the lung's outer layer (pleura). Less commonly, mesothelioma can be found in the membrane that lines the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart sac (pericardium), and very rarely, it can arise in the testicles (tunica vaginalis mesothelioma or tunica vaginalis testicular mesothelioma).

A doctor can diagnose mesothelioma through taking a tissue sample for biopsy or imaging tests. A doctor can then determine the mesothelioma's stage, which indicates the severity of the disease and how likely it is to spread.

The most important risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos legal. Asbestos is a natural, heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was employed in construction and manufacturing activities until the late 1970s. The people who worked in jobs such as asbestos mining or milling, pipefitters, insulators plumbers, as well as those who renovated older homes are more at risk than other people of developing mesothelioma.

Inhaling the tiny asbestos fibers could cause mesothelioma. These tiny asbestos fibers can get trapped in the lungs, causing inflammation that can lead to lung scarring. Asbestos exposure may also increase a person's chances of smoking, which may further increase the risk for mesothelioma.

The risk of developing mesothelioma rises with the amount of time they've been exposed to asbestos litigation. People who have been exposed to the highest levels of asbestos are at the greatest chance of developing mesothelioma.

There are risk factors that can be changed, such as the age of a person or whether they smoke, but the majority of the mesothelioma risk factors are a result of asbestos exposure. Some of these factors cannot be changed, like a person's genetics or family history. Mesothelioma is more likely occur in people with certain illnesses or health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease.

Treatment

Mesothelioma affects the mesothelium that lines the lungs and abdomen. People who are exposed to asbestos are at risk of developing mesothelioma. The disease typically develops over the years after asbestos exposure. It is often difficult to identify since symptoms are often similar to other conditions and come and go. Those who are diagnosed with mesothelioma could be compensated through lawsuits or trust fund claims.

There is no cure for mesothelioma, however, there are treatments to control the disease and improve your quality of life. Patients should seek out physicians who are experts in treating the disease. Doctors will look over a patient's medical history to look for signs and other mesothelioma-related risk factors, such as asbestos exposure.

Exposure to asbestos is the main cause of mesothelioma. It is usually caused by breathing in tiny asbestos fibers that float in the air. The asbestos legal fibers can be trapped in the lungs and cause genetic mutations that can result in cancer. Pleural mesothelioma affects the linings of the lungs and is the most common mesothelioma. However, it can also occur in the lining of the chest wall (pericardium), abdomen, and testicles (peritoneal mesothelioma).

Mesothelioma, as with all cancers, is caused by DNA changes in a cell. The mutations cause the cells to grow uncontrollably, resulting in an increase in the size of the tumor. People over 75 and veterans of the U.S. armed forces are most likely to develop mesothelioma.

There are many types of mesothelioma, and each has a distinct survival rate. Patients should know that a mesothelioma diagnose is grave and difficult to treat. The research is making progress however there is some hope. In addition, veterans who suffer from mesothelioma should be aware that they could be entitled to benefits through the VA.

The following is a list of preventatives.

Mesothelioma Although rare, it is very preventable. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once used widely in shipbuilding, construction and other industries due to its unique qualities of strength, durability as well as heat insulation and fire resistance. However, the tiny fibers of asbestos become airborne when disturbed and if breathed in, they could cause serious health issues like mesothelioma.

The only way to avoid mesothelioma is not to be exposed to asbestos. Asbestos exposure is the most significant reason for mesothelioma and most people diagnosed with the disease have been exposed to asbestos at some point in their lives. Smoking and age as well as genetics can also increase the risk of mesothelioma.

The majority of mesothelioma cases affect the lung (tummy) and lungs. Rarely, mesothelioma can develop in other areas of the body. Mesothelioma takes many years to develop, and it may not be apparent for 20 or 40 years following exposure to asbestos. It is important that people who have been exposed to asbestos regularly see their doctor if they are experiencing any unusual symptoms, such as shortness of breath and coughing.

Symptoms of asbestosis include tightness in the chest, persistent coughing and a bluish appearance to the skin due to the body is struggling to get enough oxygen. Inhaled asbestos fibers can also irritate the lungs, leading to scarring, which is known as fibrosis. This can lead to the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, and other organs including the heart. Inflammation can cause genetic changes, which could cause cancerous growth to the lungs.

There is no cure for asbestosis however, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms. These treatments can improve the quality of breathing and quality of life for patients.

Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs, however it can also affect the stomach, testicles, and heart. There is no way to avoid mesothelioma. However there are ways to lower the risk. It is important to check for asbestos litigation in the workplace and inquire with their employer about the safety standards they should follow. Wearing protective equipment and washing the work clothes away from home is a good practice to ensure that asbestos fibers are not brought home on the clothes of family members.