Mesothelioma Lung Cancer
Asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis. Mesothelioma is a condition that affects the linings of tissues, and the majority of cases begin in the lungs. A rarer type of mesothelioma develops in the lining of the abdomen known as malignant mesothelioma of the peritoneal region.
Like all cancers, mesothelioma can be caused by uncontrolled cellular growth. People can lower their risk by observing the safety guidelines for their workplace and avoiding natural asbestos deposits, smoking and using cosmetics containing talc.
Signs and symptoms
Patients with mesothelioma typically suffer from coughing and pain that will not go away. The fluid may accumulate in the abdomen or chest (ascites) as well. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ depending on the body region affected and the degree of cancer spread. The disease is typically found in the linings of major organs like the lungs. However, it can also be located in the tunica vaginalis and peritoneum. A physical examination and blood tests, urine tests, CT scans, and MRIs can be used to determine mesothelioma.
Exposure to asbestos may cause mesothelioma and lung cancer. The time between diagnosis and treatment is long. It is important that victims seek medical attention as soon as they notice symptoms and report their asbestos background.
Asbestos is made up of a group minerals with microscopic, thin fibres. It was once a popular building material, however it has since been banned due to the risks it poses to the health of humans. Asbestos exposure can harm the lungs by inhalation or through the digestive tract. If the fibres are ingested they may cause irritation to the stomach and intestinal tract, and can lead to mesothelioma or other cancers.
The symptoms of mesothelioma may occur between 20 to 60 years after the initial exposure. However, because mesothelioma symptoms often mimic those of other diseases and conditions that many patients don't seek medical assistance until they have developed serious issues.
Additionally,
asbestos claim workers are often exposed to a variety of other substances, including the smoke from cigarettes and radon, which can have similar effects on lung. This can confuse the diagnosis and treatment process and result in delays in obtaining a proper mesothelioma treatment diagnosis.
It can be difficult to recognize mesothelioma before symptoms manifest, since they could be misinterpreted as a different health issue or a condition. Pain in the chest, a breathing problems and coughing may be signs of other cancers, such as pneumonia.
This can make it difficult for doctors to recognize and treat mesothelioma-related symptoms in the lung. If you've had any of the symptoms listed above, it is essential that you consult a specialist and inform them of your asbestos exposure background.
Diagnosis
Mesothelioma can be hard to identify because the initial symptoms are often similar to the symptoms of other ailments. This includes fatigue and shortness of breath, as well as coughing. Patients suffering from mesothelioma lung cancer may also develop a lump on their chest. The disease can spread quickly.
Asbestos is composed of minerals in a group that contain microscopic fibers. These were once used in a wide variety of industrial products due to their strength and fire resistance. Asbestos was also affordable to produce and allowed manufacturers to charge less for their products. Unfortunately asbestos-based products did not completely warn users of the dangers they posed. Mesothelioma is a cancer that can develop between 20 and 60 years after exposure to Asbestos (
http://sangjininterior.com/home/bbs/board.Php?bo_table=free&wr_id=110376). Those who have been exposed to asbestos at work are at a greater risk of developing cancer.
Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma must undergo several tests to confirm the diagnosis. These include a chest X-ray and an CT scan. The X-rays can help doctors detect any changes in the lung lining like the formation of calcium deposits or a thickening. It also can reveal if there is fluid in the lung space and chest wall. X-rays may also reveal abdominal fluid. A mesothelioma radiologist will review the results to make sure that doctors are receiving accurate information.
The CT scan will provide precise images of the lungs and other body parts. This will allow the doctor to determine if mesothelioma has spread to other areas of the body. A Postron emission tomography (PET) scan can also be ordered. This test makes use of a radioactive substance to help doctors identify mesothelioma cells that have been circulating throughout the body.
A blood sample is typically taken to determine the concentration of certain cancer-causing proteins. A biopsy is then taken to verify the diagnosis. Other tests may be required in accordance with the type and stage of mesothelioma, to determine how the disease has advanced. There are three types of mesothelioma: epithelioid peritoneal and sarcomatoid. Each has its own treatment strategies. For instance, sarcomatoid mesothelioma is more invasive and difficult to treat than other types of mesothelioma.
Treatment
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer caused by
asbestos claim exposure is a rare form of cancer. Its long latency period means it is typically diagnosed many years after the initial exposure. However, patients can see an GP to discuss their concerns and symptoms which could accelerate diagnosis and treatment.
People who have been exposed to asbestos must be aware that asbestos exposure is a danger and should speak to their doctor if they experience any unusual or worrying symptoms. It is crucial to disclose any
asbestos-related exposure history because this can lead to a better mesothelioma prognosis.
Exposure to asbestos usually results in pleural mesothelioma. However, individuals can also develop peritoneal melanoma and less often, mesothelioma of the testicle. Asbestos is a class of minerals that have thin micro-sized fibers. They are used in construction, insulation and other industrial products since they are strong and fire-resistant and don't conduct electricity. If asbestos is disturbed, these tiny particles could be blown into the air and breathed in. They may also be swallowed and cause irritation to tissues of the digestive tract as well as the chest wall.
It can take between 20 and 60 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure. The cancerous tumors typically begin in the lining of the lungs (pleura) but they can also be found in other parts of the body like the lining of the stomach (peritoneum), heart and testicles. Mesothelioma is seen in males and females, however those over 50 are more likely to be affected.
The treatment options for mesothelioma are different depending on the type and stage. In the majority of instances, doctors will suggest treatment with chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. In some cases these treatments may prolong the duration of life.
A chest X-ray could reveal mesothelioma and confirm its diagnosis. A biopsy is also needed to determine a mesothelioma diagnosis. The surgeon will remove the cancerous tissue and then place an organ transplant in its place. A pleural drain can be placed in the chest to ease pain and decrease the accumulation of fluid.
In some cases mesothelioma can be treated with chemotherapy drugs like pemetrexed and cisplatin. These drugs work to kill cancer cells and prevent their spread. Patients can also receive targeted therapy that uses antibodies to destroy specific DNA mutations that cause mesothelioma.
Prognosis
The mesothelioma cancer is a rare form of cancer that develops in the organ's linings that protect it known as mesothelium. It is most common in the lung linings however it can also affect the linings of the abdomen and heart (peritoneal or pericardial mesothelioma).