Mesothelioma is a form of cancer most often caused by exposure to asbestos.
Overview
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer in which malignant (cancerous) cells are found in the mesothelium, a protective sac that covers most of the body’s internal organs. It most often affects the pleura (lungs and chest cavity) as it represents almost 75% of all mesothelioma cases. However, it also affects the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity) and the pericardium (a sac that surrounds the heart). Peritoneal mesothelioma makes up 10-20% of all mesothelioma cases. This leaves pericardial mesothelioma as the most uncommon form of mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Common symptoms associated with Mesothelioma are as follows:
- chest wall pain
- pleural effusion, or fluid surrounding the lung
- shortness of breath
- fatigue or anemia
- wheezing, hoarseness, or cough
- blood in the sputum (fluid) coughed up
- abdominal pain
- ascites, or an abnormal buildup of fluid in the abdomen
- a mass in the abdomen
- problems with bowel function
- weight loss
- blood clots in the veins, which may cause thrombophlebitis
- disseminated intravascular coagulation, a disorder causing severe bleeding in many body organs
- jaundice, or yellowing of the eyes and skin
- low blood sugar level
- pleural effusion
- pulmonary emboli, or blood clots in the arteries of the lungs
- severe ascites
Diagnosing Mesothelioma
It is common for the development of mesothelioma to occur 20 or sometimes even 40 years after initial exposure to asbestos. Diagnosing mesothelioma can be difficult because symptoms related to the cancer are shared by more common but less devastating diseases. One can sometimes diagnose through X-rays, CAT scans, or MRIs. Definite diagnosis is usually confirmed through fluid diagnosis or tissue biopsy.
Mesothelioma Treatment
The three main forms of treatment for mesothelioma are surgery to remove the cancer, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Additional Resources: Mesothelioma Lawsuit
Do I Have a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, LLP is currently accepting Asbestos induced mesothelioma cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by Asbestos and since developed mesothelioma, you should contact our firm immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Toxic Tort Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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