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Mesothelioma Construction workers, industrial workers, military veterans and others who worked with asbestos-contaminated products are at risk of developing mesothelioma. The constant exposure to asbestos fibers triggers chronic inflammation, which causes damage to the mesothelium. DNA changes are also triggered by this inflammation. Columbia asbestos lawyer of malignant mesothelioma increases proportionally to cumulative exposure, and to a third or fourth power after first exposure. It can take between 10 and 50 years after exposure for symptoms to appear. Symptoms The mesothelium comprises the cells that cover the body. This lining protects organs and tissues by lubricating them so that it can slide smoothly against each other. The malignant mesothelioma may be spread to other parts of the body, including the lungs, the heart and abdomen. It can also cause other symptoms, like chest pain and fatigue. The symptoms of mesothelioma may take between 10 and 50 years to appear and make it difficult for doctors to diagnose the condition. It can also be confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Patients may experience symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing or a throbbing sensation in the fingers and nails. Patients with mesothelioma may also experience a fluid accumulation in the chest (peritoneal) or belly. This condition is called an pleural effusion. Like lung cancer, mesothelioma cannot be detectable in imaging tests, like an X-ray or CT scan, until the cancer has progressed for several years. Doctors often need to perform a biopsy in order to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose. This can be accomplished by the bronchoscopy procedure, or by needle biopsy. These diagnostic procedures can assist doctors determine if mesothelioma is a cause and determine a treatment plan for the patient. Doctors can also look over the history of a patient's asbestos exposure to determine whether they are at risk for developing asbestos-related diseases. The greatest risk is for those exposed to asbestos at their workplaces. People who work in high-risk jobs include those in construction, shipbuilding and other blue-collar fields, as well as veterans of the United States Armed Forces. People who are exposed to asbestos workers are also at risk of developing mesothelioma especially if the worker brings home asbestos fibers on their clothing. People who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma may benefit from regular visits to their family doctor for a checkup, and also talking about any health issues related to asbestos. This is particularly important since mesothelioma may be mistakenly attributed to other diseases, such as asbestosis. Diagnosis The earliest symptoms of mesothelioma can appear to be flu-like, pneumonia or intestinal trouble. Patients might not show symptoms until 10 to 50 years after asbestos exposure due to the long latency time. The fact that it is similar to other diseases can make it difficult to diagnose. The location of the body part affected can also affect the symptoms. The first step is to see a primary care physician or a physician who can assist in determining the reason for these symptoms. They will ask you for your medical history, and then look for any indication that asbestos exposure has been mentioned. They will also perform an examination and run basic tests like blood tests or X-rays. Depending on the type of mesothelioma, a biopsy might be required to confirm the diagnosis. The biopsy involves inserting a needle in the chest or abdomen to collect a small amount of the tissue. The tissue is then studied to determine whether it is a source of mesothelioma cancerous. Both mesothelioma types are malignant, whether they are epithelioid cells or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70 percent of mesothelioma cases while sarcomatoid mesothelioma makes up the remaining 70%. When a mesothelioma biopsied has been performed, doctors can create an action plan. They will usually refer the patient to a specialist to determine the best course of action for their condition. Inhalation of asbestos fibers is a cause mesothelioma. Asbestos is a group of minerals that look like bundles of tiny thin fibers. They are found in rock and soil and are often released into the air during mining, construction and other activities. When inhaled, these fibers become stuck in the lungs and cause inflammation. In time, this may lead to scarring (asbestosis) and eventually mesothelioma. The cancer is typically centered in the lungs, but it can also grow in the lining of the tummy (peritoneal mesothelioma) or in the testicles (pericardial mesothelioma). Treatment Mesothelioma is a type of cancer, that is an abnormal growth of cells that invade the surrounding organs and tissues. Cancerous cells may also spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. Mesothelioma treatment options are different based on the type and location of the mesothelioma. Today, doctors are using chemotherapy and surgery to treat mesothelioma. Radiation therapy can be used in conjunction with surgery or chemotherapy. It is used to reduce swelling and pain caused by mesothelioma and eliminate cancerous cells. Asbestos exposure can trigger asbestosis, a condition that is not cancerous which causes scarring of the lungs and other parts of the body. It can also cause mesothelioma, which is a more severe type of asbestos disease which is typically fatal. Mesothelioma is a virulent cancer that is most often found in the lungs and abdomen. The symptoms can include breathing problems, coughing and chest pain. X-rays or CT scans can detect mesothelioma. The results of these scans reveal areas of greater density, which could indicate scar tissue (or an abnormal tumor). Doctors can conduct a needle biopsy or bronchoscopy to determine the distinction. A bronchoscopy is performed by inserting an extremely thin flexible tube into respiratory passages in order to observe the tissue and collect samples for testing. A needle biopsy consists of injecting an injection of liquid into the area to take a small piece of tissue for testing. Both procedures can be painful, however the results can help doctors identify asbestosis and mesothelioma. The signs and symptoms of mesothelioma are similar to other illnesses, and can develop up to 50 years after initial exposure. It is often difficult to identify mesothelioma due to the latency period that occurs between asbestos exposure and the onset of symptoms. It's common for people to be misdiagnosed as having other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Scientists don't know for sure what causes mesothelioma, but they do know that exposure to asbestos increases the risk. Asbestos can be exposed through industries like asbestos mining, manufacturing, and construction. Workers also transport asbestos-containing substances to their homes and other work places, where they could inhale or swallow the fibers. The types of asbestos most often involved in mesothelioma cancer cases are amphibole and serpentine asbestos fibers. The serpentine type of asbestos is less cancerous than the amphibole type, however both are capable of causing illness. Prognosis Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that affects the thin layer of tissue that lines internal organs. It is usually caused by asbestos exposure which is a grouping of minerals that is resistant to heat and strong. It is believed that asbestos fibres are absorbed into the lungs, and cause irritation to the membranes, and eventually cause cancer. This irritation can cause genetic mutations that eventually cause the growth of tumors. Asbestos can be uncovered in a variety of ways, such as during manufacturing, mining cleaning or repairing asbestos products. You can also be exposed at home through washing or wearing asbestos-containing clothing. Certain people are more at risk of developing mesothelioma because of their relatives' history of the disease or an increased risk of developing it due to other factors, such as genetics. People with mesothelioma can experience a number of symptoms that often mimic other illnesses. It can be difficult to help doctors to recognize mesothelioma in its early stages. It is important for people who have been exposed to asbestos to discuss their history with their doctor and ask for regular checks. The majority of mesothelioma cases result from asbestos exposure at work. However, research shows that exposure to asbestos in the environment can cause mesothelioma too. Asbestos dust can spread from work areas to areas in which people live. Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who live within 2000 metres of an asbestos mine or cement plant. Certain people with mesothelioma suffer from a lung condition called asbestosis before their mesothelioma begins. Asbestosis can cause the lungs to become thicker and make it difficult to breathe. People suffering from this condition are more likely to need to use oxygen at home, and may require lung surgery such as a the lobectomy. Certain mesothelioma patients also receive treatment for their symptoms. They might be prescribed drugs to help them breathe or participate in clinical trials to test new treatments. Mesothelioma is still a deadly disease, but early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of survival. Some patients who have undergone multiple cycles of chemotherapy and surgery have been able extend their lives by up to 10 years.