Pericardial Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Pericardial Mesothelioma can be found in the pericardium, which is a tissue that surrounds the heart. This type of mesothelioma generally results in symptoms such as chest discomfort or fatigue, which can mimic other health conditions.
These symptoms may take years to manifest following exposure to asbestos and can be difficult to diagnose. Patients should discuss their experience of exposure to asbestos with their physician to make sure they get a proper diagnosis.
What is the cause of mesothelioma pericardial?
Pericardial mesothelioma develops in the thin membrane that runs along the heart, also known as the pericardium. This is one of the rarest mesothelioma types that account for one-third to 2% of all mesothelioma cases. As with all types of mesothelioma pericardial is also linked to asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was utilized in a wide range of household and commercial products for many years. The fibers are easily swallowed, inhaled or caught in the linings of the chest and abdominal cavities. Mesothelioma occurs when the fibrils irritate and form tumors.
A few doctors have found a connection between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma pericardia. They do not yet fully comprehend how
asbestos compensation contributes to the development of this cancer in the pericardium, however they know that it occurs in a quarter of all patients diagnosed with mesothelioma. This is partly because it usually occurs decades after exposure to asbestos.
In the majority of cases, a person who is exposed to
asbestos legal may develop pleural mesothelioma. It is found in the lungs and lining of the chest wall. It is also possible to develop testicular or peritoneal mesothelioma within male testes. It is sometimes difficult to diagnose pericardial msothelioma when the symptoms are similar to those of other heart problems.
The symptoms of pericardial cancer tend to appear gradually and affect breathing. These symptoms include chest pain, breathing problems and a build-up of fluid around the heart referred to as pericardial effusion. This condition is diagnosed by a doctor using an echocardiogram (an ultrasound of the heart) or biopsy.
A mesothelioma expert can help determine if a patient has the rare form of the disease and find the best treatment. Other factors, like genetics, a weak immune system, and radiation exposure can increase the risk for mesothelioma pericardial. A family history of the disease increases your risk.
Symptoms
Like other types of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma develops when asbestos fibers get into the tissue that surrounds the heart. This rare form of cancer, which makes up less than 1% of mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in people who have been exposed to asbestos at work or within close proximity to people who have been affected by asbestos. Pericardial Mesothelioma is characterized by a variety of symptoms that are difficult to recognize.
As asbestos particles attach to the pericardium's lining, they can cause tumors to grow and thicken the membrane. It is thought that this is the reason for mesothelioma of the pericardium, but doctors know little about how it develops. The majority of doctors believe that the cancer spread from a different part of the body, such as the abdomen, lungs (peritoneum) and finally to the lining in the heart.
The lining of the chest and abdomen are both known as the mesothelium. It is the primary site for the majority of mesothelioma tumors grow. The disease may also start in the peritoneal lining or in the testicles but this is not as frequent.
After exposure to asbestos, the mesothelioma symptoms may take years to manifest. These symptoms are often similar to other conditions and can include chest pain, trouble breathing as well as weight loss, fatigue and an ongoing cough. In a few cases, pericardial mesothelioma may cause clubbing of the fingers, a condition in which the fingertips swell and appear larger than usual.
Doctors diagnose mesothelioma in the pericardium based on the patient's medical history. They will inquire about any previous exposure to asbestos and conduct imaging tests, like x-rays, CT scans and an echocardiogram to examine the pericardium. To complete the diagnosis they'll also take an x-ray or a sample of tissue.
Pericardial Mesothelioma, which is a rare condition that is not recognized by many doctors, can trigger serious symptoms. Patients should report all symptoms to their doctor to be tested for mesothelioma and other conditions. The taking of our Symptom Checklist along to your appointment will ensure that your doctor is aware of all symptoms you are experiencing and will be able to correctly determine if you are suffering from mesothelioma or another condition.
Diagnosis
Pericardial mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose. The symptoms can be similar to other heart diseases and may not show up until the disease is advanced. Additionally, exposure to asbestos can occur decades before pericardial mesothelioma appears and makes the connection difficult to detect. Anyone with a history of asbestos exposure should consult their physician about any symptoms that could be related to
asbestos.
The cause of mesothelioma of the pericardial region is not known However, doctors believe it occurs when asbestos fibers migrate from the lungs to the pericardium and irritate the tissue that is there. Over time, the irritated tissue mutates into cancerous cells, which then grow into tumors and thicken the pericardium. As a result of tumors, fluid builds up around the organ. This pressure can cause symptoms.
Typically, doctors perform imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans to spot any tumors or excess fluids. Then, they conduct blood tests to confirm the presence of mesothelioma as well as determine the extent of any spreading of the cancerous cells.
Patients with mesothelioma must be prepared to discuss their history of work with their doctor. asbestos workers are at greater risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses, including mesothelioma and lung cancer. Patients with a past of asbestos exposure could be qualified for compensation in a mesothelioma suit.
If you or a loved one has been exposed to
Asbestos Legal and has recently been diagnosed with pericardial cancer, a lawyer with experience in asbestos litigation can help you understand your legal options. Contact Madeksho Law Firm today for an initial consultation for free. No fees are charged unless we can recover compensation for you.
Madeksho Law Firm has helped hundreds of veterans with asbestos-related cases. Our lawyers are well-versed in the various laws that affect asbestos victims and can ensure you receive all the benefits to which you are entitled. Complete our online claim form or call us to begin. We'll guide you through the entire process from start to the end. Contact us at 1-888-654-7635. Download our free Veterans Packet for more information about your benefits.
Treatment
To properly identify pericardial mesothelioma, doctors need to conduct physical examinations and ask patients about their asbestos exposure history. They can then perform various tests, such as Xrays, CT Scans, echocardiograms and biopsies, to pinpoint the symptoms 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. Because of this lengthy time between latency, it is important for anyone experiencing mesothelioma-related symptoms to talk to a physician immediately. It is also important to be candid about their past exposure to asbestos so that they can ensure they receive the most effective treatment.