Pericardial Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Pericardial mesothelioma is an uncommon form of mesothelioma, which is found in the heart's lining (pericardium). This type of mesothelioma typically produces symptoms such as chest discomfort or fatigue, which can be similar to other health conditions.
It can take years for symptoms to manifest after
Asbestos legal exposure. This makes a diagnosis difficult. The best method to obtain a correct diagnosis is to share their history of asbestos exposure with their physician.
What causes mesothelioma of the pericardium?
Pericardial Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is found in the thin membrane that lines the heart. It is among the rarest mesothelioma types which accounts for about 1 to 2% of all mesothelioma cases. Like all types of mesothelioma, the pericardial type is also connected to asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used in a variety of commercial and household items for a long time. Its harmful fibers can be swallowed or inhaled and can be caught in the lining of the chest or abdominal cavities. Mesothelioma is a result of fibrils that become irritated and form tumors that spread to other parts of the body.
Only a handful of doctors have discovered a connection between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma pericardia. They are still unable to fully comprehend how asbestos contributes to this cancer in the pericardium, however they know that it happens in 25% of patients diagnosed with mesothelioma. This is partly because it usually occurs decades after asbestos exposure.
Most people who are exposed to asbestos develop pleural msothelioma. This cancer forms in the lung's lining and chest wall. However, they could also develop peritoneal mesothelioma, located in the abdomen or testicular mesothelioma, which is found in the male testes. If they are diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma, it is difficult to identify because symptoms can be similar to those of other heart ailments.
The symptoms of pericardial cancer tend to come on slowly and can affect the ability to breathe. The symptoms may include chest pain, trouble breathing and a fluid buildup around the heart, referred to as pericardial effusion. The condition can be diagnosed by a doctor with an echocardiogram (an ultrasound of the heart) or a biopsy.
A mesothelioma specialist can help determine if a patient suffers from the rare form of this disease and find the best treatment. In addition to asbestos exposure other factors that could increase the risk of pericardial mesothelioma include genetics as well as an impaired immune system and radiation exposure. People who have mesothelioma in their family have an increased risk, too.
Symptoms
Pericardial mesothelioma is also caused by asbestos fibers reaching the heart's tissue. This uncommon form of cancer which is responsible for less than one percent of mesothelioma that is malignant it is mostly discovered in those who were exposed to asbestos in their workplace or by living with someone who was affected by asbestos. Pericardial mesothelioma symptoms may vary and mimic other conditions, making diagnosis difficult.
When asbestos particles adhere to the pericardium lining, they can cause tumors to expand and thicken the membrane. It is thought that this is the reason for mesothelioma pericardial, although doctors aren't aware of how it develops. Most doctors think that the cancer grew from another area of the body, such as the abdominal cavity or lungs (the peritoneum) and then spread to the lining of the heart.
The lining of the abdomen and chest are known as the mesothelium. It is the primary location for mesothelioma tumors to develop. The disease can also begin in the peritoneal lining and testicles. However this is less common.
The symptoms of mesothelioma, such as mesothelioma pericardial may take years to manifest after exposure to
asbestos litigation. These symptoms are typically similar to other conditions and may include chest pain, difficulties breathing as well as fatigue, weight loss and an ongoing cough. In certain cases the pericardial msothelioma tumor can cause clubbing. This is an illness where fingers get swollen and look more round than normal.
Doctors diagnose mesothelioma in the pericardium based on the patient's medical history. They will inquire about any previous exposure to asbestos and perform imaging tests, like x-rays, CT scans and an echocardiogram to examine the pericardium. To complete the diagnosis they'll also take a sample of fluid or tissue.
Pericardial Mesothelioma is a rare condition that is not recognized by many doctors, can lead to serious symptoms. It is essential that patients report all their symptoms to their doctor in order to be tested for mesothelioma and other ailments. Bringing our Symptom Checklist to your appointment will help ensure that your doctor is aware all of your symptoms and will be able to correctly diagnose you.
Diagnosis
Pericardial mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose. The symptoms often mirror more common heart diseases and may not be apparent until the condition has advanced significantly. Asbestos exposure can take place years before pericardial malignancies are diagnosed which makes it difficult to determine the connection. Anyone who has a history of asbestos exposure should speak to their physician about any symptoms that could be related to asbestos.
The cause of pericardial mesothelioma remains unknown, but doctors believe that it occurs when asbestos fibers move from the lungs to the pericardium and irritate the tissue there. As time passes the affected tissue transforms into cancerous cells, which then grow into tumors and expand the pericardium. As a result of tumors, fluid forms around the organ. This pressure causes symptoms.
X-rays or CT scans are typically performed first by doctors to detect any tumors or excessive fluids. Then they run blood tests to confirm the presence of mesothelioma, and determine the extent of any spreading of the cancerous cells.
Mesothelioma patients must also be prepared to discuss their occupational history with a doctor.
asbestos litigation workers have a high risk of developing asbestos-related diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. Patients who have a history of
asbestos case exposure may be eligible for compensation via mesothelioma litigation.
If you or a loved one has been exposed to
asbestos and has recently diagnosed pericardial mesothelioma lawyer with experience in
asbestos litigation can help understand your legal options. Contact Madeksho Law Firm today for a free consultation. No fee is charged unless we are able to obtain compensation for you.
Madeksho Law Firm has helped hundreds of veterans in asbestos-related cases. Our lawyers are well-versed in the laws affecting asbestos victims and will help you receive the benefits you deserve. Get started on your claim now by filling out our online form or calling us. We will help you through the whole procedure. Our number is 1-888-654 7635. Download our free Veterans Packet for more information about your benefits.
Treatment
Doctors should conduct physical exams and ask patients questions about their asbestos exposure to diagnose pericardial a mesothelioma. They can then use different tests such as X-rays CT Scans, Echocardiograms and Biopsies to determine the symptoms.
It can take as long as 60 years for asbestos fibers reach the tissue of the heart and cause cancerous cells to form. Because of this long time period of latency, it's important for anyone experiencing mesothelioma-related symptoms to consult an expert doctor right away. It is also important to be candid about their previous exposure to asbestos so they can receive the most effective treatment.