Mesothelioma FAQs
Mesothelioma FAQ
What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that develops as a result of exposure to asbestos, often in the workplace. This type of cancer affects the mesothelium, or protective and supportive lining that covers various organs, including the heart sac, the lungs, and the abdominal cavity. The majority of mesothelioma cancers develop in the lungs or the heart lining, but they can spread to surrounding, or even distant, tissues as the disease progresses.
Mesothelioma is an aggressive disease for which there is no known cure. Sadly, mesothelioma often takes the lives of its victims within six months to five years following diagnosis.
What is the mesothelium?
The mesothelium is a lining that surrounds and protects organs throughout the body. The mesothelium is made of two layers, one the surrounds a specific organ, such as the lungs or diaphragm, and another that forms a sac around one or more organs, such as the chest cavity or abdominal cavity. A lubricating fluid exists between these layers to allow organs to move (e.g. breath and heart beat) and work in harmony with nearby organs and structures. In mesothelioma, this fluid often builds up, which can cause an array of symptoms.
The mesothelium is called by different names depending on where it is found in the body. The following are the mesothelial tissues that are most commonly affected
by the cancer mesothelioma.
Pleura—lining of the lungs and chest cavity
Peritoneum—lining of the abdominal cavity ad organs
Pericardium—lining of the heart
Tunica vaginalis—lining of the testicles
How common is mesothelioma?
While mesothelioma is considered a rare cancer, affecting approximately 2,000 to 3,000 new patients each year, the incidence of this cancer has increased over the last two decades. Over 650 Tennessee residents have died because of mesothelioma in the last 20 years. This cancer affects those that have been exposed to asbestos on the job or in their homes.
Click here to read more stats and facts about mesothelioma.
What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?
Working or living in an environment where asbestos is present poses the greatest risk of developing mesothelioma. In 70 to 80 percent of all mesothelioma cases, experts have been able to trace the disease to prior exposure to asbestos.
In addition to the risks associated with work exposure to asbestos, family members of these workers may also be at an increased risk of exposure. Workers can unknowingly carry invisible asbestos fibers home with them on their clothing or person. This is considered secondary exposure to asbestos.
Click here to learn more about the causes and risk factors for mesothelioma.
What are the different types of mesothelioma?
There are three main types of malignant mesothelioma: pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma, and pericardial mesothelioma. In addition, approximately 100 cases of testicular mesothelioma have been reported in the last two decades. Click here to learn more about the different types of mesothelioma.
How do I know if I have mesothelioma?
In many cases it is not obvious that a person has mesothelioma. In fact, symptoms of this rare cancer do not often develop for 30 to even 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Furthermore, these symptoms do not often appear until the disease is in an advanced stage. Symptoms of mesothelioma also tend to appear quite similar to other heart, lung and stomach conditions.
Symptoms of mesothelioma depend largely on the area of the body that is affected by the cancer, as well as the stage or progression of the disease. Shortness of breath and pain in the chest area are common symptoms of pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma. The development of localized bumps, pain and swelling are common to all types of mesothelioma. Other symptoms can include fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, gastrointestinal problems, and fatigue are also possible symptoms of mesothelioma. Click here to learn more about the symptoms of mesothelioma.
How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
Mesothelioma can be a difficult disease to diagnosis because the symptoms are so similar to those of other conditions. To make a mesothelioma diagnosis, a doctor will discuss the patient’s medical history and current health behaviors and conditions. They will also perform a physical examination. A whole host of diagnostic tests—such as x-ray, CT scan, MRI, and biopsy—can also be used to diagnose mesothelioma.
If a doctor does determine that a patient has mesothelioma, they will then try to stage the cancer, or determine the origin and extent of the disease. Staging may require additional tests and procedures. Click here to learn more about mesothelioma diagnosis and stages.
How is mesothelioma treated?
Mesothelioma treatment is determined by a number of factors including the patient’s current health and symptoms, the location and extent of disease progression, and other factors. Standard mesothelioma treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Other possible treatments include immunotherapy, gene therapy, and phototherapy. Because there is no known cure for mesothelioma, treatment is often focused on slowing the progression of the disease, managing symptoms, and helping a patient to have the best quality of life in the time remaining.
Click here to learn more about mesothelioma treatment.
What can I do if a loved one or I have mesothelioma?
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it can be helpful and comforting to learn as much as possible about this disease, what treatments are available and what to expect as the disease progresses. Furthermore, you may wish to contact a qualified mesothelioma attorney who can examine your case to determine whether or not you might be able to seek assistance paying for your medical expenses and other losses. Because mesothelioma is caused by asbestos, those who are responsible for asbestos exposure can be held liable for your losses and suffering.
Please see our page on Mesothelioma and your legal rights or contact us today to learn more.
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