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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Asbestos is a mineral that naturally forms in the form of thin, long fibers. Workers who are exposed asbestos on a regular basis are at risk of developing mesothelioma as well as other lung diseases of different types. rock hill asbestos lawsuit could take a long time for symptoms to show up after asbestos exposure. Different asbestos types can cause different symptoms. Pleural Mesothelioma Pleural mesothelioma can be found in the lung's outer lining also known as the pleura. It is the most common mesothelioma type and accounts for 70% to 79% of all diagnosed cases. This condition causes chest pain, shortness of breathe and a feeling of heavyness. This type of cancer often caused through exposure to asbestos, which is a collection of minerals made up of microscopic fibres. Once inhaled, these fibers stick inside the lung and cause irritation which causes scarring and DNA mutations. The pleura surrounds the chest cavity and lungs This means that these irritations can affect both the lungs and the heart of a person. Mesothelioma usually doesn't show symptoms until 30 to 50 year after exposure. Shortness of breath and chest pain are the most frequently reported symptoms. Some patients have coughing problems, trouble breathing or chest tightness. People who suffer from this cancer usually have previous exposure to asbestos in the workplace. The most common jobs that expose workers to the risk of developing pleural mesothelioma are manufacturing, construction, and shipbuilding. Individuals who have served in the military are at greater risk due the frequent use of asbestos in Navy vessels and Army bunkers. The most popular staging system for pleural mysothelioma has been the TNM (tumor, lymph nodes and metastases) staging system. The stage a patient has upon diagnosis will aid their doctor in determining the most effective treatment plan for them. Patients suffering from pleural mesothelioma who is in stage three or four will have a less favorable outlook than those who are in a lower stage. Mesothelioma in stage four is usually spread to the diaphragm, liver or even a person's heart. This makes it more difficult to treat and raises the likelihood of complications for the patient. Peritoneal Mesothelioma Contrary to pleural cancer that develops in the lining of the lung the peritoneal cancer is a result of the membrane that covers the abdominal cavity, which includes organs like the liver and intestines. Like pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure. The disease is less prevalent than pleural mesothelioma. There are just 300-500 cases being diagnosed each year. Like pleural mesothelioma, symptoms may take years to appear. Typically, patients suffer from abdominal pain and an abdominal mass. The symptoms of this type of mesothelioma may also include nausea as well as weight loss and fever. A lot of these symptoms are similar to those experienced by digestive issues, which could result in misdiagnosis. Generally speaking, doctors can detect mesothelioma by conducting an extensive medical history and physical exam. Imaging tests like X-rays and CT scans are a way to identify mesothelioma. These tests can identify tumors and other cancer signs that aren't evident on X-rays. These test results allow doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and determine the stage of the disease and suggest treatment options. The staging is determined by the cell type and whether or the tumor has spread to other areas of the body. The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. People who have worked in professions that involve asbestos, like plumbing, electrical work, manufacturing or construction, are at increased risk of developing the disease. However, even if individuals aren't employed in these fields they may be exposed to asbestos through family members or other sources. For this reason, anyone who is concerned that they might be at risk should talk to an experienced doctor. A mesothelioma specialist can assist those with a history with asbestos to learn more about their risk. Risk Factors Asbestos is the primary risk factor in mesothelioma. It is responsible for up to the 80% of cases. Exposure to asbestos may occur through work, military service, or living with someone who used to work with asbestos. When exposed to asbestos, particles can be breathed into the lungs and abdomen. The particles cause irritation to the linings, causing cancerous cells to form in the mesothelium. Mesothelioma can take anywhere between 15 and 60 years to develop after exposure to asbestos. Other risk factors include genetics, smoking and aging. People in their 40s and 50s are more likely to get mesothelioma than people younger or more senior. Mesothelioma can take between 20 and 60 years to manifest cancer symptoms after the first exposure. It is also important to note that mesothelioma can develop in those who were exposed to asbestos but did not engage directly with it. This is known as secondary or indirect exposure to asbestos, and it could be as hazardous as direct exposure. Smoking increases the chance of mesothelioma developing, as it damages the mesothelium. It also makes it more susceptible. Additionally, mesothelioma can be caused by certain illnesses, such as asbestosis and pneumonia. Men are more likely to develop mesothelioma compared to women. This is due to men being more likely to work with asbestos and experience a an extended period of exposure than women. Men are also more likely to have lived with someone who has been exposed to asbestos, and to have asbestos fibers on their clothing. Women are less likely to be exposed to asbestos, and they don't usually carry asbestos on their clothing. Diagnosis It is difficult to recognize mesothelioma because its symptoms are frequently similar to other illnesses. This can lead to victims being misdiagnosed. The first step to diagnose mesothelioma is for NYU Langone doctors to perform an examination of the body and take note of the medical history of the patient which includes asbestos exposure. Doctors will also order a CT scan or chest X-ray to check for abnormalities, lumps and evidence of asbestos exposure. These include plaques in the pleura, thickened pleura and calcium deposits. Other diagnostic tests include an echocardiogram which examines the blood vessels and the heart, and a magnetic resonance imaging, also known as MRI, test, which uses radio waves and magnets to create detailed images of the interior of the body. A surgical biopsy is another method doctors use to diagnose mesothelioma. In a surgical biopsy doctors remove a small amount of tissue from the pleura or peritoneum to conduct further tests. A pathologist is then able to examine the tissue under a microscope to see if it is contaminated with cancerous cells. Mesothelioma can be classified based on the mesothelial type involved, whether the cells are malignant or benign and also the location of the tumor, the type, and the stage of the tumor. Certain mesothelioma types have a higher chance of metastasizing or spreading and it's crucial to establish a clear diagnosis to ensure that the doctors can treat it before it gets out of control. Doctors may also conduct tests in the lab on tumors to determine specific genes, proteins, or other factors which will help them identify the characteristics of cancer and plan treatment. These results are known as staging. Treatment A mesothelioma diagnose can be terrifying. But, it is crucial to remember that the cancer can be treated, particularly in its earlier stages. Many people with mesothelioma can live with the disease for a long time, without spreading. Exposure to asbestos may cause mesothelioma in a number of ways. Asbestos fibers, too small to be able to see or feel with the naked eye, can become airborne and irritate the lung's lining (pleura). Over time, the irritation leads to the formation of scar tissues and eventually tumors. The Pleura is a protective layer that surrounds the abdomen, heart, and lungs. Mesothelium consists of cells that respond when exposed to asbestos. They cause inflammation of the tissue and cause it to become scarred. These changes can cause mesothelioma cancers. The symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are shortness of breath and chest pain as well as a buildup of fluid in the lung (pleural effusion). In rare cases cancer may spread to the tissues surrounding the reproductive organs as well as the heart. If imaging scans show an underlying mass in the lungs or stomach the doctor will request biopsies. In the course of the procedure, doctors remove small amounts of fluid or tumor for tests in the laboratory. The results will confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and determine the best treatment option. There are a variety of mesothelioma treatment, including chemotherapy, surgery and immunotherapy. Most doctors rely on the combination of these methods. Participating in clinical trials of mesothelioma treatments may be beneficial for patients. Patients can learn more by consulting a mesothelioma specialist who has treated the disease.