So , You've Purchased Asbestos Mesothelioma Cancer ... Now What?
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Mesothelioma Cancer
Mesothelioma is a cancerous tumor that develops in the linings of various organs. This includes the Pleura (lung) and peritoneum and the pericardium. In rare instances it may develop in the tunica vaginalis (testicular).
Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor for mesothelioma. It can also occur due to a genetic mutation or exposure to radiation.
Pleural Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is mainly affecting the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma) or the lining of the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma). However it can also manifest in the membrane that surrounds the testicles and heart. Typically, the signs of mesothelioma come and go over time and may not appear until it is at its later stages.
The exposure to asbestos is the main cause of mesothelioma. People are diagnosed with the disease when stray asbestos fibers get into their bodies through breathing, swallowing or contact with their skin. The asbestos fibers stick to the linings of organs and slowly cause tumors to develop. This can take up to 50 years. This is why doctors are unable to recognize mesothelioma at its early stages.
Most common pleural msothelioma symptoms include chest pain and trouble breathing. These symptoms can be confused with those of a flu or cold and may not be apparent until the cancer has advanced. A biopsy as well as a review of the patient's history of exposure can help a doctor determine whether the symptoms are related to mesothelioma.
A doctor can test a person's blood for certain proteins that are produced when mesothelioma tumor cells multiply. They can also request an MRI or CT scan to determine mesothelioma-related symptoms. A doctor can also perform an thoracoscopy to check the chest cavity for signs that may be related to asbestos.
The chest's lining or lungs is usually affected by mesothelioma of the pleural region. It may also develop in the linings of the heart or abdomen. The mesothelioma type is more common in those who have been exposed to asbestos while at work. However, family members of someone who has worked with asbestos could be at a higher risk for developing this disease if the fibers get on their clothing or skin and are then taken home.
There are two main mesothelioma types which are epithelioid as well as sarcomatoid. Between 60% to 70% of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid, which have a more positive prognosis. The remaining 10% to 15 % are sarcomatoid and have worse prognosis. A small percentage are classified as biphasic or mixed. These cases have both epithelioid cells and sarcomatoid cells.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma happens when asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed and settle in the lining of the abdomen called the peritoneum. When asbestos fibers are deposited in the peritoneum, they can cause irritation to mesothelial cells, causing them to grow abnormally. Over time, mesothelioma develops and expands to other organs. The symptoms of mesothelioma can be nonspecific and are often difficult to recognize. People with peritoneal mesothelioma may suffer from abdominal pain, fever, nausea, weight loss and other health problems. People with mesothelioma should discuss their exposure history with a doctor to make sure they are receiving the correct treatment.
The exposure to asbestos puts people at risk of developing all types of mesothelioma. Since mesothelioma has an extended latency time, it can take decades after exposure for symptoms to manifest.
Asbestos exposure can also affect other parts of the body, like the gastrointestinal tract and the lungs. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult mesothelioma experts.
When mesothelioma has been diagnosed, doctors treat both the cancer and the symptoms. Patients can expect to undergo a combination of chemotherapy, surgery and palliative treatment.
A doctor will look for mesothelioma with a biopsy. This is a invasive procedure that involves inserting a needle inside a patient's body to remove a small amount of tissue. The specimen will then be examined in a laboratory for evidence of malignant mesothelioma cells.
If mesothelioma has been identified A surgeon can operate to remove both the tumor as well as any lymph nodes in the vicinity. They will also drain fluid that has accumulated in the abdomen, a process called ascites. This is accomplished with an operation known as abdominal paracentesis or an ascitic tape.
In some cases doctors may choose to employ a form of chemotherapy known as intraperitoneal chemotherapies to destroy mesothelioma tumor cells directly in the stomach. This is usually done along with a surgical process called cytoreductive surgery using HIPEC or the Sugarbaker procedure.
Patients with mesothelioma can sue companies that manufactured and sold asbestos-containing products. A successful lawsuit may help victims and their family members receive the compensation they deserve. Get your Free Mesothelioma Guide now to find out more about filing an action.
Thoracic Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma mesothelioma lung cancer is a form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs (pleura). It can also occur in the linings of the chest cavity and abdomen (peritoneum), and around the testicles and the heart. Mesothelioma originates from cells known as mesothelium. Mesothelioma is more likely to develop if you are exposed to asbestos. Mesothelioma usually appears 20-60 years after exposure. People who have worked with asbestos or have been in close proximity to it, such as blue collar workers and veterans, are more at risk.
It isn't fully understood how mesothelioma is developed. However, researchers believe that when asbestos is inhaled or swallowed, it causes irritation and changes to the genetics of the mesothelium. In time these changes lead to the growth of cancerous tumors. Pleural mesothelioma, which is the most prevalent form of this cancer is the most frequent.
People who are diagnosed with pleural melanoma have an average life expectancy of one to four years after diagnosis. The cancers spread and grow quickly, which reduces your chances of survival.
The majority of cases of pleural asbestosis are caused by exposure to asbestos for a long time at high levels. Mesothelioma can also be caused by low-level, short-term exposure.
The symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are difficulty breathing, chest pain, weight loss, coughing, and swelling of the abdomen. The majority of people suffering from pleural mesothelioma also experience a buildup of fluid between the lungs and the chest wall (pleural effusion).
The most accurate way to determine mesothelioma's diagnosis is by taking tissue samples from a biopsy. This can be done with an CT-guided semi-invasive procedure, or open surgery. A physician can utilize MRI to determine if the mesothelium spreading beyond the lung to the chest wall and diaphragm.
The best way to avoid mesothelioma is to stay clear of contact with asbestos. Talk to your GP when you suspect that you've been exposed. People who been employed in locations where asbestos was used must have their work history recorded even if they do not recall being exposed. International pressure must be applied to pressure countries that mine asbestos and manufacture it to stop. People living close to demolition sites or mines where asbestos was produced should wear protective equipment.
Vascular Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer that is related to asbestos is a rare condition. It affects the lining of the body's organs, including the abdomen and lungs. Asbestos fibers can trigger this condition. Asbestos is a class of minerals composed of fibres that are extremely flexible and fireproof. Builders make use of them to make products and buildings more durable. Asbestos is still used in a few countries, but it is banned in other countries.
Mesothelioma is a result of asbestos when it enters the lungs or abdomen through your nose or mouth. Asbestos may enter the bloodstream, and later be transported to other parts of the body. Mesothelioma can take years to develop following exposure to asbestos.
There are three types of mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is a lung cancer. Peritoneal mesothelioma can affect the lining of the abdomen. Pericardial Mesothelioma, which is the rarest type, attacks the lining in the heart.
Diagnosed with chest X-ray or computed Tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging. The treatment options are based on the type of cancer you have.
In general malignant pleural mesothelioma tends to grow more quickly than benign tumors. It also has a latent period of up to 40 years.
The exact distinction between mesothelioma and sarcoma of the serous membrane is vital for medical reasons, since only mesothelioma that is malignant is classified as an asbestos-related Neoplasm to allow compensation. To date asbestos exposure hasn't been associated with a case of serous membrane sarcomas.
A small number of patients with diffuse pleural epithelioid haemangioendotheliomas and lymphovascular sarcomas of the pleura have been reported to have claimed previous exposure to asbestos. These tumors are similar malignant mesothelioma, both clinically and morphologically. However, immunohistochemistry studies indicate that they are unlikely to be aetiologically linked to asbestos as they don't express the endothelial markers CD31 and CD34. Furthermore, the presence of pleural fibrisis and ferruginous body structures that are typical of asbestos exposure was not observed.