Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops in the thin layer of tissue covering many internal organs, known as the mesothelium. The only known cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure, with approximately 3,000 new cases diagnosed in the United States each year. This cancer has a long latency period, often appearing 20-50 years after initial asbestos exposure, which significantly complicates early diagnosis and treatment.
Types of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma presents in four primary forms, each affecting different areas of the body:
Pleural Mesothelioma
This is the most common type, accounting for about 75% of cases. It affects the lining of the lungs. Symptoms include chest pain, persistent cough, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Develops in the abdominal lining and represents about 20% of cases. Symptoms include abdominal pain and swelling, nausea, and changes in bowel habits.
Pericardial Mesothelioma
This is a rare form of cancer affecting the heart lining. Symptoms include chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and difficulty breathing.
Testicular Mesothelioma
This is the rarest presentation of mesothelioma, affecting the lining of the testicles. Symptoms include testicular pain and swelling.
Common Symptoms of Mesothelioma
While symptoms vary depending on the type of mesothelioma, some common warning signs include:
- Persistent chest or abdominal pain
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue and weakness
- Fluid buildup in the affected area
- Persistent dry or raspy cough
- Difficulty swallowing
- Night sweats or fever
Diagnosis & Prognosis
Diagnosing mesothelioma involves these steps:
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans help identify abnormal tissue growth.
- Biopsies: Tissue samples are examined to confirm the presence of cancerous cells.
- Staging: Once diagnosed, the cancer is staged (I through IV) based on its spread, which guides treatment decisions.
Mesothelioma Treatment Options
Treatment for mesothelioma depends on several factors, including the type, stage, and the patient's overall health:
- Surgery: This may involve removing the affected tissue, an entire lung, or tumor debulking to relieve symptoms.
- Chemotherapy: This is often used in combination with surgery to kill remaining cancer cells.
- Radiation Therapy: This targets and destroys cancer cells, sometimes before or after surgery.
- Multimodal Therapy: Combining multiple treatment approaches often yields better results.
- Emerging Therapies: Immunotherapy, gene therapy, and targeted treatments show promise in clinical trials.
How Do You Get Mesothelioma?
The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is asbestos exposure, which typically occurs in two ways:
Occupational Exposure
Workers in construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, mining, and other industries are at heightened risk from workplace asbestos use.
Secondary Exposure
Family members of asbestos workers may develop mesothelioma through contact with contaminated clothing or equipment brought home. Veterans, particularly Navy veterans, have higher rates of mesothelioma due to widespread asbestos use in military applications.
Legal Guidance and Help for Mesothelioma Patients
For individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma or families who have lost loved ones to this disease, legal recourse is available. Since the early 1970s, Cooney & Conway has stood at the forefront of mesothelioma litigation, fighting for victims.
Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of mesothelioma cases and work diligently to hold responsible parties accountable. Compensation can help cover medical expenses and lost income and provide financial security during this challenging time.
To learn more about whether you may benefit from pursuing legal action related to your mesothelioma diagnosis, contact us to schedule a free case evaluation. We’ll review your information and help you decide on your next steps. Reach out to us today to get started.