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Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is found in the organ's lining, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It is usually caused by exposure to asbestos, a class of minerals comprised of tiny fibres. Mesothelioma may manifest anywhere between 20 and 60 years after exposure. Blood tests or X-rays are a way to identify mesothelioma and assess the extent to which it has spread. Pleural Mesothelioma Pleural Mesothelioma occurs when malignant cells grow in the lining surrounding the lungs (pleura). Pleura is a two-layer of tissue that surrounds most organs. Msothelioma pleural cancer is most often found in the lungs or chest wall. This can cause symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Asbestos is the leading cause of pleural msothelioma. When asbestos fibers in the air are inhaled, they could travel down the throat and into the lungs where they can damage the lining. This can cause inflammation and scarring, which could trigger changes that result in uncontrolled cell growth. Certain asbestos-related exposure victims might not be able to recognize symptoms until decades after their initial exposure. This is due to the fact that mesothelioma can take a long time to develop. Males and those born male are more likely to be diagnosed with mesothelioma. Other diagnoses that are common include older people who worked in industries that used asbestos in large quantities prior to the time it was regulated or who were in the Navy. The symptoms can vary depending on the location where the tumor is located. are usually caused by increased pressure or swelling around the affected lung. These symptoms can include chest or back pain and weight loss that is not explained and fatigue. X-rays, CT or MRI scans can be used to rule out other conditions which could cause similar symptoms. When pleural asbestosis is discovered doctors will determine the stage of the cancer to determine the most effective treatment options. The International Mesothelioma Interest Group has developed the staging system. The first step in determining the stage of the disease is to conduct a biopsy and review the medical records of the patient. X-rays or a chest MRI are also used to determine if there are any tumors, or other abnormalities that could indicate mesothelioma. There are three distinct kinds of mesothelioma which can be categorized based on the kind of cells that form: Epithelioid Mesothelioma: The most common type of malignant mesothelioma (60 percent to 90% of cases). It is usually less difficult to treat than other kinds. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is the second most frequent type of mesothelioma (between 10% and 15 percent of cases). It is more difficult to treat than epithelioid mesothelioma. Peritoneal Mesothelioma Peritoneal mesothelioma forms in the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneum). It is less prevalent than mesothelioma of the pleural region. Like all mesothelioma types, peritoneal mesothelioma stems from asbestos exposure. This mesothelioma type is more likely to result from ingestion rather than inhalation, as opposed to the pleural. This type of mesothelioma generally occurs in older people and is more common in women than men. The mesothelioma's early stages are difficult to identify because of the lack of specificity. Experts in mesothelioma have the expertise to recognize the disease. Complete patient histories, as well as imaging and blood tests can aid doctors in making an accurate diagnosis of mesothelioma. A doctor will utilize the TNM system to determine the stage of cancer after a mesothelioma diagnosis. This system of staging outlines how the tumors are spreading and affects the treatment options. The lower the stage, the greater treatment options are available. It can be difficult to detect peritoneal msothelioma because it is so rare. The symptoms of this condition resemble those of many other diseases that affect the digestive tract and abdomen, including abdominal pain, fever and weight loss. Because of this, patients who have unexplained symptoms should see a doctor. The doctor will perform an examination of the body and then take basic blood tests. If these tests reveal that there is a disease an oncologist can perform more specific diagnostic tests, such as biopsies. Arlington asbestos attorneys will provide a clear picture of the patient's health and will identify any possible mesothelioma-related signs. Asbestos exposure is the main reason for all mesothelioma cases. The exposure to asbestos is usually at work, but it can also occur at home or in schools. Asbestos is the most hazardous when exposed for a long period of time. Mesothelioma can develop when asbestos dust or asbestos particles enter the body and cause irritation or inflammation. Over time inflammation and irritation can cause cells to mutate and become cancerous. The cancerous tissue formed can then invade other tissues and cause symptoms such as abdominal discomfort as well as weight gain, fever and swelling. Cardiovascular Mesothelioma Pericardial mesothelioma is a rare cancer that affects the lining of the heart, or the pericardium. The mesothelioma type is less than one percent of all mesothelioma cases, and is among the most difficult cancers to identify because the symptoms are so similar to heart disease. In the end, many people are diagnosed of heart disease before doctors confirm that they have pericardial mesothelioma. Like other types of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma can be caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos fibers can enter the pericardium via the bloodstream. These fibers can be transported to other organs such as the heart. Pericardial mesothelioma typically occurs in the outer layer of the pericardium however, it may also occur in the inner layer. Pericardial Mesothelioma is associated with a less favorable prognosis as than other mesothelioma types. The symptoms of fatigue, chest pain and difficulty breathing are all symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma. Due to the rareness of this form of mesothelioma, it is especially important for patients to undergo an extensive medical exam. If they have an history of exposure to asbestos, it's even more critical that they tell their doctor. The initial step in a mesothelioma diagnosis is often the CT scan or echocardiogram. These tests can reveal the accumulation of fluid around the heart and visible pericardial tumors. If these tests show the presence of mesothelioma then doctors can carry out additional procedures to confirm the diagnoses. This could include a biopsy or radiation. A mesothelioma biopsy is a process in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the affected area and examined under microscope. This allows doctors to determine the stage and type of mesothelioma. Mesothelioma patients can receive treatment from specialized hospitals and cancer centers across the country. Depending on the type of mesothelioma that is being treated, options for treatment could include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Some patients may be eligible to receive free or low-cost health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs. For victims of mesothelioma, this financial assistance is crucial to make treatment more accessible. Contact a VA-approved mesothelioma attorney to learn more about the benefits available to you. Reproductive Mesothelioma Mesothelioma may develop in organ linings in the chest or abdomen. It may also be found in the heart's lining (pericardium) and testicles. The risk for men is higher than women due to unknown causes. The exposure to asbestos is the main risk factor. Symptoms do not usually appear for many years after exposure to asbestos. Workers exposed to asbestos in the workplace are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma than other people. In most instances chest pains or persistent cough are the primary symptoms. Mesothelioma can be misdiagnosed because these symptoms are similar to other lung disorders. After being diagnosed, patients will undergo several tests to find out how far the cancer has spread and its stage. These tests may involve imaging scans, such as X-rays or CT scans. A biopsy may be performed by a mesothelioma specialist in order to confirm the diagnosis. The biopsy may be done using a core-needle or laparoscopically. It is essential that a specialist in peritoneal mesothelioma conducts the biopsy. General medical oncologists do not have the knowledge to identify peritoneal mesothelioma and could miss diagnosing the condition. The results of mesothelioma tests can help doctors decide on the best treatment plan for you. Treatment will depend on the severity of the cancer as well as your general health. Treatments include radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery. It is possible to manage symptoms. Chemotherapy is an effective treatment for the majority of mesothelioma. However, these medications can also affect healthy cells. They can cause damage to ovarian tissues and affect fertility. This is especially true for peritoneal mesothelioma, which occurs in the area surrounding reproductive organs. The severity and type of mesothelioma, along with age and general health will determine the speed at which you're treated and your prognosis. About 2,700 people in the UK are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is common for the disease to develop in the lung's lining (pleura) but it could also develop in the linings of the stomach (peritoneum) and less often, around the testicles or the heart.