Pericardial Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Pericardial Mesothelioma can be found in the pericardium, which is a part of the lining of the heart. This kind of mesothelioma could cause symptoms such as chest pain or fatigue that can mimic other conditions.
It could take years for symptoms to show up after exposure to asbestos. This makes it difficult to determine the cause. Patients should share their history of exposure to asbestos with their doctor to ensure a correct diagnosis.
What causes pericardial mesothelioma?
Pericardial mesothelioma occurs in the thin membrane that lines the heart, also known as the pericardium. It is among the rarest forms of mesothelioma, making up about 1% to 2 percent of all mesothelioma cases. Like all types of mesothelioma, pericardial is linked to asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally found mineral that was used in a wide range of commercial and household products for many years. The fibers are easily inhaled, swallowed, or caught in the tissues of the abdominal and chest cavities. Mesothelioma is a result of fibrils that are irritated, and they form tumors that eventually spread throughout the body.
Only a few doctors have found a connection between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma pericardia. While they don't know the exact mechanism that causes asbestos-related cancer of the pericardium to develop however, they do know that about 25% of
mesothelioma lawsuits sufferers are affected. This is due to the fact that it usually occurs decades after exposure to asbestos.
In most cases, a person exposed to asbestos will develop pleural mesothelioma. It develops in the lungs and forms a lining of the chest wall. However, they may also develop peritoneal mesothelioma found in the abdomen, or testicular mesothelioma, in the testes of males. If they are diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma, it can be difficult to identify because symptoms often resemble those of other heart conditions.
The symptoms of pericardial cancer tend to come on gradually and affect breathing. The symptoms may include chest pain, difficulty breathing and a fluid buildup around the heart, which is known as pericardial effusion. The condition is diagnosed by a physician using an echocardiogram (an ultrasound of the heart) or biopsy.
A mesothelioma expert can determine if a patient suffers from this rare form of disease and assist them in finding the best treatment. In addition to asbestos exposure, other factors that can increase the risk of developing pericardial mesothelioma include genetics as well as an impaired immune system, and radiation exposure. A family history of the disease also increases your risk.
Symptoms
As with other mesothelioma types, pericardial mesothelioma occurs when asbestos fibers get into the tissue that surrounds the heart. This rare type of cancer, which makes up less than 1percent of mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in people who have been exposed to asbestos in their work environment or in close proximity to those who have been affected by asbestos. The symptoms of mesothelioma in the pericardium can be different and can mimic other conditions and make it difficult to determine the cause.
As asbestos particles attach to the pericardium's lining they can cause tumors to expand and make the membrane thicker. Doctors do not know how pericardial cancer develops, but they believe that asbestos particles are responsible for the development. The majority of doctors believe that cancer spread from a different part of the body such as the abdomen, lungs (peritoneum) and finally to the lining inside the heart.
The lining of the chest and abdomen are known as the mesothelium. It is the main site for most mesothelioma tumors to grow. The disease can also begin in the peritoneal lining and testicles. However, this is much less common.
Symptoms of mesothelioma, including mesothelioma of the pericardial region may take years to manifest after exposure to asbestos. These symptoms are often similar to other diseases and may include chest pain, difficulty breathing, weight loss, fatigue, and a constant cough. In a few instances, pericardial mesothelioma may cause clubbing of the fingers this is a condition that causes the fingertips swell and appear more round than normal.
Doctors diagnose pericardial mesothelioma based on the patient's medical history and symptoms. They will inquire about previous exposure to asbestos, and then conduct imaging tests, such as x-rays, CT scans and an echocardiogram to check the pericardium. They will also collect samples of tissue or fluid to confirm the diagnosis.
Pericardial mesothelioma is a rare condition and a large number of doctors are unable to recognize the signs. It is essential for patients to disclose all of their symptoms to their doctor to be examined for mesothelioma as well as other conditions. Bring our Symptom Checklist to your appointment can help ensure your doctor is aware of your symptoms and can accurately diagnose you.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing pericardial cancer can be difficult. Its symptoms are often akin to other heart conditions that are more common and may not show up until the condition has advanced in a significant way. Asbestos exposure can occur years before pericardial malignancies are diagnosed which makes it difficult to determine the connection. Anyone with a history involving asbestos exposure should speak to their doctor about any symptoms that may be related to asbestos.
The cause of mesothelioma pericardial remains unclear However, doctors believe it occurs when asbestos fibers travel from the lungs into the pericardium, and cause irritation to the tissue that is there. In time the tissues affected by irritation transform into cancerous cells, which then grow into tumors. Due to tumors, fluid builds up around the organ. This pressure causes symptoms.
X-rays or CT scans are usually performed first by doctors to detect any tumors or excessive fluids. Then, they conduct tests in the blood to confirm the presence of mesothelioma, and determine the extent to which cancerous cells are growing.
Patients with mesothelioma must be prepared to discuss their history of work with their physician. Asbestos workers are at a higher chance of developing asbestos-related illnesses, including mesothelioma and lung cancer. Patients with an asbestos-related history could be eligible for compensation through a
mesothelioma lawsuit.
A lawyer who has experience in asbestos litigation will assist you in understanding the legal options available to you if you or someone loved ones has been exposed
asbestos attorney and developed pericardial Mesothelioma. Call Madeksho Law Firm for a free consultation today. No fees are charged unless we can obtain compensation for you.
The pericardial
mesothelioma attorneys lawyers of Madeksho Law Firm have helped hundreds of veterans and their families in asbestos-related cases. Our lawyers are knowledgeable of the laws that apply to asbestos victims and can help you receive the benefits you deserve. Fill out our claim online form or call us to begin. We will guide you through the entire process from start to finish. Our number is 1-888-654-7635. Download our free Veterans Packet for more information about your benefits.
Treatment
Doctors must conduct physical exams and ask patients questions regarding their
asbestos attorney exposure to identify pericardial a mesothelioma. They can then use various tests, including X-rays, CT Scans, echocardiograms and biopsies, to pinpoint the signs and determine if there is an accumulation of fluid in the pericardium.
Asbestos fibers can take as long as 60 years to reach the lining inside the heart, causing cancerous cells. It is vital that anyone who has mesothelioma-related symptoms see a doctor promptly due to the long latency period.