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Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the lining of organs including the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It is usually caused by exposure to asbestos, a class of minerals that are made of microscopic fibres. It could take between 20 to 60 years after exposure before mesothelioma starts to show signs. X-rays and blood tests can be used to diagnose mesothelioma and determine how far it has spread. Pleural Mesothelioma Pleural Mesothelioma occurs when malignant cells form in the lining of the lung (pleura). Pleura is a double layer of tissue that covers the majority of organs. The cancerous pleural msothelioma of the pleura often found in the lungs or the chest wall. This can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulty, chest pain, and breathing difficulties. Philadelphia asbestos attorney is the most significant cause of pleural msothelioma. When asbestos fibers from the air are inhaled, they may be absorbed by the throat and into the lungs which can cause damage to the lining. This may cause inflammation and scarring that could cause changes that lead to out of control cell growth. Certain asbestos-related exposure victims may not experience symptoms until decades after their initial exposure. Mesothelioma may take several years 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 employed asbestos in large quantities before it was controlled, or those who served in the Navy. The symptoms can vary based on the location of the tumor and are usually caused by an increase in pressure or swelling near the affected lung. The symptoms could include back or chest pains or weight loss that isn't explained, and fatigue. X-rays, CT or MRI scans can be used to determine the cause of other ailments which could be causing similar symptoms. If pleural mesothelioma is diagnosed, doctors will determine the stage of the disease to help determine the best treatment options. The International Mesothelioma Interest Group has created the staging system. The first step in determining the stage is taking a biopsy and examining the patient's medical history. X-rays and a chest MRI can be used to determine whether there are any tumors or other abnormalities that indicate mesothelioma. There are three kinds of mesothelioma. They can be classified based on the type of cells they form: Epithelioid Mesothelioma is the most commonly malignant mesothelioma (60 to 80 percent of cases). It is generally easier to treat than other types. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma: This is the second most prevalent kind of mesothelioma (10 percent to 15% of cases). It is more difficult than epithelioid. Peritoneal Mesothelioma Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneum). It is less common than the pleural form. Like all mesothelioma types, peritoneal mesothelioma stems from asbestos exposure. However, unlike pleural mesothelioma, people are more likely to develop this type of mesothelioma through ingestion of asbestos fibers, rather than inhaling asbestos particles. This type of mesothelioma typically occurs in older people and is more common in women than men. The early stages of mesothelioma are difficult to identify due to the lack of specificity. However, experts in mesothelioma know how to spot the condition. Detailed patient histories and imaging and blood tests, will help doctors make an accurate diagnosis of mesothelioma. When mesothelioma is discovered, a doctor will determine the stage of the cancer by using the TNM system. This staging system describes the extent of the tumors' spread and influences treatment options. The lower the stage the more treatment options are available. Because peritoneal mesothelioma is so rare, it can be hard to recognize. The symptoms of this disease are similar to those of a variety of diseases that affect the digestive tract and abdomen, such as abdominal pain, fever, and weight loss. Patients who experience symptoms that are not clear should consult with a physician. Doctors will start with a physical examination and performing basic blood tests. If these tests show that there is a disease, an oncologist may perform more detailed diagnostic tests, including biopsies. This will give a clear image of a person's health and reveal any mesothelioma-related symptoms. Asbestos exposure is the main reason behind mesothelioma-related cases in general. Asbestos exposure is commonplace in the workplace, but also at home or at school. Asbestos is the most hazardous when exposed for a long period of time. Mesothelioma is caused due to asbestos dust or particles entering the body and causing inflammation or irritation. As time passes, irritation and inflammation may cause cells to change and turn cancerous. The cancerous tissue that has been created can later infiltrate other tissues and cause symptoms like abdominal discomfort as well as fever, weight gain and swelling. Cardiovascular Mesothelioma Pericardial Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that is a cancer of the pericardium, or the lining of the heart. This kind of mesothelioma accounts for less than 1% of mesothelioma. It is also difficult to detect due to the similar symptoms that heart disease sufferers experience. Many people are diagnosed with heart disease before doctors are able to confirm they have pericardial msothelioma. Like other forms of mesothelioma, asbestos exposure can cause pericardial cancer. Asbestos fibers are believed to enter the pericardium via the bloodstream. These fibers may then travel to other organs, such as the heart. Pericardial mesothelioma is typically found in the outer layer of the pericardium however, it may also occur in the inner layer. Pericardial Mesothelioma is correlated with a lower prognosis when compared to other mesothelioma types. The signs of pericardial mesothelioma can include chest pain, breathing difficulties and fatigue. It is important that victims undergo a thorough medical exam due to the fact that this type of mesothelioma is so rare. If they have an history of exposure to asbestos, it is essential to inform their doctor. The first step to make the diagnosis of mesothelioma is usually an CT scan or echocardiogram. These tests can detect fluid accumulation around the heart as well as visible pericardial tumours. If these tests show mesothelioma, doctors can perform additional procedures to confirm the diagnosis. These include a biopsy and radiation. A mesothelioma biopsies is an procedure in which a small piece of tissue is taken from the affected area, and then examined under a microscope. This allows doctors to determine the type and stage of mesothelioma. Patients with mesothelioma can be treated at cancer centers and specialized hospitals across the nation. Depending on the kind of mesothelioma, treatment options may include chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. Certain patients may qualify for free or low-cost health care through the Department of Veterans Affairs. For victims of mesothelioma, this financial assistance is crucial to making treatment more accessible. Contact a VA-approved mesothelioma attorney to find out more about the benefits you can avail. Reproductive Mesothelioma Mesothelioma may begin in the linings of organs in the abdomen and chest. It can also grow in the lining of the heart (pericardium) and the testicles. It is more common in males than women, although the reason for this isn't known. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor. Symptoms are not common for decades after asbestos exposure. Workers exposed to asbestos in the workplace are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma than others. In most cases, the first sign of mesothelioma is an ongoing cough or chest pains. Mesothelioma may be misdiagnosed as these symptoms are akin to other lung disorders. Once diagnosed, patients may undergo an array of tests to determine how far the cancer has spread and the stage. These tests may include blood and imaging scans such as X-rays and CT scans. The mesothelioma doctor may also take a biopsy from the affected area to confirm the diagnosis. The biopsy may be carried out using a core needle or laparoscopically. It is crucial that a specialist in peritoneal cancer conducts the biopsy. General medical oncologists do not have the knowledge to identify mesothelioma of the peritoneal region 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 degree of the cancer as well as your general health. Treatments include chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. It is possible to control the symptoms. Most types of mesothelioma can be treated by chemotherapy. These medications can also cause harm to healthy cells. They can cause damage to the ovarian tissues, and this can impact fertility. This is particularly likely for peritoneal mesothelioma which occurs in the area around reproductive organs. The type and severity of mesothelioma you have, as well as your age and general health can affect how fast the cancer is treated as well as its prognosis. About 2,700 people in the UK are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The disease is most commonly found in the linings surrounding the lungs and abdomen (peritoneum), but it can also be found around the testicles and the heart.