Pericardial Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Pericardial Mesothelioma is a condition that affects the pericardium, which is a part of the lining of the heart. This type of mesothelioma typically produces symptoms such as chest pain or fatigue that may mimic other health conditions.
These symptoms may take years to develop following asbestos exposure, making a diagnosis challenging. The best way to get a correct diagnosis is for patients to discuss their experience of exposure to asbestos with their physician.
What causes mesothelioma of the pericardium?
Pericardial Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, that develops in the thin membrane that lines the heart. This is a rare type of mesothelioma, which accounts for 1% to 2 percent of all cases. Like all types of mesothelioma, pericardial is connected to asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a type of naturally occurring mineral that was utilized in a wide range of household and commercial products for many years. The fibers are easily inhaled, swallowed, or caught in the tissues of the chest and abdominal cavities. Mesothelioma develops when the fibrils cause irritation and create tumors.
Only a handful of doctors have discovered a connection between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma pericardia. Although they aren't sure what causes asbestos-related cancer of the pericardium, they do know that around one quarter of mesothelioma patients are affected. This is due to the fact that it is usually diagnosed decades after exposure to asbestos.
In most cases, a person exposed to
asbestos compensation will develop pleural mesothelioma, which is found in the lungs and forms a lining of the chest wall. However, they may also develop peritoneal mesothelioma, located in the abdomen or testicular mesothelioma in the male testes. If they are diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma it may be difficult to identify because symptoms often resemble those of other heart conditions.
Symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma tend to develop slowly and can affect the ability to breathe. These symptoms can include chest pain, trouble breathing and a fluid buildup around the heart called pericardial effusion. A doctor can identify this condition by performing an echocardiogram which is an ultrasound of the heart, or the pericardial biopsy.
A mesothelioma specialist can determine whether a patient has this rare form of the disease and assist them in finding the most effective treatment. Other factors, like genetics, a weak immune system, and exposure to radiation could increase the risk of mesothelioma pericardial. People with mesothelioma in their family have an increased risk, too.
Symptoms
Like other types of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma occurs when asbestos fibers enter the tissue that surrounds the heart. This rare form of cancer, which accounts for less than 1percent of all malignant cases of mesothelioma is typically found in people exposed to asbestos in their work environment or in close proximity to someone who has been affected by asbestos. Pericardial Mesothelioma can have many symptoms that are difficult to identify.
As
asbestos attorney particles attach to the pericardium lining, they can cause tumors to develop and make the membrane thicker. It is believed that this is the reason for pericardial mesothelioma, though doctors aren't sure how it develops. The majority of doctors believe that the cancer grew from an area of the body, such as the lungs or abdominal cavity (the peritoneum) and then spread to the lining of the heart.
The lining of the chest and abdomen are both known as the mesothelium. This is the primary site for most mesothelioma tumors to develop. The disease can also develop in the peritoneal lining and testicles. However it is not as common.
After exposure to asbestos, the mesothelioma symptoms can take years to manifest. The symptoms may be similar to those of other diseases, and include chest pain, difficulty in breathing and fatigue, as well as weight loss. In certain cases the pericardial tumor can cause clubbing, an illness in which fingers get swollen and look 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 conduct imaging tests like x-rays, CT scans and an echocardiogram to examine the pericardium. They will also collect samples of tissue or fluid to complete the diagnosis.
Pericardial Mesothelioma, a rare condition that is not recognized by many doctors, can cause serious symptoms. It is crucial for patients to disclose all their symptoms to their doctor so that they can 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 correctly diagnose you.
Diagnosis
Pericardial mesothelioma can be difficult to identify. The symptoms may be similar to other heart ailments and may not be apparent until the disease is advanced. Moreover, asbestos exposure can occur decades before the onset of pericardial mesothelioma and makes the connection difficult to identify. Anyone with a history involving asbestos exposure should speak to their physician about any symptoms that may be related to asbestos.
Doctors don't know the reason for the pericardial msothelioma. They believe it is caused by
asbestos lawsuit fibers that migrate from the lungs into the pericardium to irritate tissue. Over time, the irritated tissues mutate into cancerous cells which transform into tumors. As a result of tumors, fluid forms around the organ. This pressure causes symptoms.
X-rays or CT scans are typically carried out by doctors first to identify any signs of tumors or excess fluids. Then, they conduct tests on blood to confirm the presence of mesothelioma as well as determine the extent of any spreading of cancerous cells.
Patients suffering from mesothelioma should be prepared to discuss their work history with their physician. Asbestos workers are at a higher chance of developing asbestos-related illnesses which include mesothelioma and lung cancer. Patients who have had a history of asbestos exposure could be qualified for compensation in a mesothelioma lawsuit.
If you or someone close to you has been exposed to
asbestos law and has recently been diagnosed with pericardial cancer, a lawyer who is experienced in
asbestos litigation can help know your legal options. Contact Madeksho Law Firm today for an initial consultation for free. There is no cost unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
The pericardial mesothelioma lawyers at Madeksho Law Firm have helped hundreds of veterans and their families in asbestos-related cases. Our lawyers are well-versed in the laws that apply to asbestos victims and can help you receive the benefits you deserve. Start your claim now by filling out our online form or by calling us. We will guide you through the entire 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 determine if pericardial mesothelioma is a cancer. They can then perform various tests, such as X-rays, CT Scans, echocardiograms and biopsies, to locate the signs and determine if there's fluid buildup in the pericardium.
Asbestos fibers can take as long as 60 years to reach the lining of the heart, causing cancerous cells. It is vital that anyone with mesothelioma symptoms seek out a physician immediately because of the long latency period. They should also be open about any previous exposure to
asbestos claim so that they can receive the most effective treatment possible.