Mesothelioma Overview
MesotheliomaMesothelioma CancerMesothelioma, often referred to as "asbestos cancer", is a cancer of the mesothelium, which is the lining that protects vital organs of the body. A diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma (often simply called mesothelioma) is very serious. Most cases are fatal within two years, although recent improvements in treatment (both chemotherapy and surgical treatment) have extended the survival times of many mesothelioma patients. Early diagnosis and proper treatment of mesothelioma can often lead to a good prognosis. There are three main types of mesothelioma:
The most common form is pleural mesothelioma, followed by peritoneal mesothelioma. Pericardial mesothelioma is exceptionally rare. The only known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a mineral commonly used in insulating and fire retardant materials. Asbestos was widely used in manufacturing and construction until 1972, when it was partially banned. However, asbestos continued to be used in many household products into the late 1970's, and in automotive brakes into the 1990's. Mesothelioma can occur as the result of very low levels of exposure to asbestos fibers. It often takes several decades for signs of the disease to surface. Nearly 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year in the United States. Mesothelioa symptoms include shortness of breath, chronic cough, chest and back pain, and weight loss. Asbestos cancer victims tend to be men ages 50 and up, though nearly anyone who has been exposed to asbestos can contract the disease. Mesothelioma is most common in industrial and construction workers, but can also result from household exposures. Many cases of mesothelioma have occurred in the children or wives of industrial workers, who have been exposed to asbestos fibers brought home on the clothing of the worker. Mesothelioma SymptomsMesothelioma Symptoms and Legal AdviceMany patients do not experience symptoms of malignant Mesothelioma in its early stages. But as the cancer spreads, certain symptoms will become more noticeable:
If you are experiencing the above symptoms, it is imperative that you contact a doctor as soon as possible. Diagnosis of the disease is usually made by a pathological review of tissue taken from the tumor. A series of immunohistochemical stains is used by a pathologist to distinguish between Mesothelioma and other types of malignant cancer. The only known cause of Mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. If you have been diagnosed with any form of the disease, you should call our Mesothelioma attorneys for legal advice. Whereever you are in the United States, we will drive or fly to your home within a few days. We will immediately begin working on your behalf to obtain compensation for you and your family. SWIFT DETECTION CAN LEAD TO POSITIVE OUTCOMEWhen detected early enough, and treated properly by an experienced mesothelioma physician and medical staff, a mesothelioma patient's prognosis is expected to be good. Early detection of mesothelioma and all forms cancer related to asbestos exposure is vital. To learn more about this rare form of occupational cancer, feel free to browse our mesothelioma and asbestos related topics. If you have any questions or concerns, please call our mesothelioma lawyers at (800) 440-4262. Visit our Mesothelioma Treatment Center page for an extensive list and directory of research information, service providers, treatment facilities, doctors and physicians related to mesothelioma and asbestos cancer treatment and after-care. Located throughout California, our mesothelioma attorneys have represented clients throughout the United States. |