What Are The Risk Factors For Malignant Mesothelioma?

There are several risk factors that increase the likelihood that a person will develop mesothelioma. The main risk factor for asbestos. Exposure to extremely harmful substance can significantly improve the chances of contracting the disease. Other secondary factors include exposure to radiation, zeolite, simian virus 40 (SV40) and tobacco. We examine each of these risk factors detailed below.

Asbestos

Exposure to asbestos is the major risk factor for mesothelioma. Asbestos is an insulating material composed of fibers of magnesium silicate minerals. She was favored by builders and contractors for many years for its low thermal conductivity and resistance to melting and burning. As researchers have identified links between a growing mesothelioma and asbestos exposure, the material is less used. Before this discovery, however, millions of Americans have suffered a severe exposure to this harmful substance.

More than 700,000 schools and buildings in the U.S. Today, States contain asbestos insulation as reported by the U.S. Agency for Environmental Protection. Asbestos exposure does not stop there, however. Asbestos is often found in shipyards, factories, railways and construction sites. The workers are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma due to occupational exposure, and in particular those working in mines, factories, shipyards, construction sites, railways and insulation manufacturers and makers of gas masks. The occupations most affected are miners, factory workers, railroad workers, ship builders and construction workers - especially those who installed insulation containing asbestos. Sometimes family members related to exposure, the workers are second hand dust and asbestos fibers brought home the clothes of workers and also become a risk for mesothelioma.

asbestos fibers serpentine and amphibole are the two main types of asbestos used. Chrysotile is a serpentine fiber and more frequent use. These fibers tend to be curly and flexible. amphiboles, however, are generally straight and narrow and usually include one of five types: crocidolite, amosite, anthrophylite, tremolite, actinolite y. The type of amphibole crocidolite is thought to be the major contributor to cancer caused by asbestos. Serpentine fibers are dangerous as well, however, and is also associated with mesothelioma.

Some research results in the fact that inhalation of asbestos fibers cause a physical irritation resulting in cancer instead of cancer is caused by a reaction that is chemical in nature. As the fibers are inhaled through the nose and mouth, are removed from the body by adhering to mucus in the nose, throat and airways, then get expelled by coughing or swallowing. amphibole (long and thin) are not clear as easily and is thought to incorporate into the lining of the lungs and chest and result in mesothelioma.

The asbestosis (scar tissue in the lungs), or lung cancer can also be caused by the inhalation of asbestos. In fact, people exposed to asbestos seven times more likely to develop lung cancer during the hearing. Employees who have suffered a great exposure to asbestos is more likely to die from asbestosis, mesothelioma or lung cancer than any other disease. It is also believed that the action of coughing and swallowing asbestos could be promoted form of mesothelioma, the abdomen is called peritoneal mesothelioma. Mesothelioma has been observed in other organs, as well as the larynx, pancreas and colon, but these cases are very limited compared to the cases of lung cancer.

The possibility of developing mesothelioma is directly proportional to the duration and amount of exposure to asbestos, that the individual referred to above. People exposed to asbestos tall young age, and are at higher risk for a long time been diagnosed with mesothelioma than those who are short, low-risk. Another important aspect is that mesothelioma can take a long time the obvious. Often twenty to forty years to run when the exposure to the diagnosis. Genetic factors may influence which explains why not everyone exposed to asbestos and asbestos-related diseases.

Radiation

thorium dioxide (Thorotrast), a substance used in X-ray tests in the past has reported links with pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma. The use of Thorotrast was abandoned for many years due to this discovery.

Zeolite

Some cases of mesothelioma in the region Anatoli Turkey was bound to zeolite, a mineral made of silica with chemical properties similar to asbestos in the soil there.

Simian virus 40 (SV40)

Some scientists have found that simian virus 40 (SV30) in mesothelioma cells in humans and were able to create mesothelioma in animals with the virus. The relationship between this virus and mesothelioma is not clear, however, more research is underway to gain clarity on this potential link.

Tobacco

Smoking is associated with him, not only mesothelioma, but smokers who are exposed to asbestos have a higher chance of developing lung cancer (as well as top 50 to 90 percent). Research indicates that lung cancer is the leading cause of death in asbestos workers.

Glossary Of Terms

Asbestos: a combination of several minerals that separate into long, threadlike fibers. Why do not burn, does not conduct heat or electricity, and are highly resistant to chemicals, these minerals are often fireproof materials, electrical insulation, roofing, filters, etc. benign: doing no harm, the effect well: the frequency on which the 'event (generally at risk) pericardium: a thin membrane that surrounds the heart and the roots of the great arteries.

peritoneum: a thin membrane covering the abdominal cavity and partially covers some abdominal organs.

pleura: a thin membrane covering the lungs (visceral pleura) and lines the chest cavity (parietal pleura) malignant: harmful, dangerous (a malignant tumor is a cancer).

number in the middle of a series of numbers: the median (for example, the median survival of 10 months means that for this specific group of patients, survival ranged from 2 months to 30 months, probably).

mesoderm: the middle layer of cells in an embryo from which the muscular, skeletal, vascular, connective tissue, etc. develop.

Mesothelioma: a tumor in the mesothelium, which may be benign (localized) or malignant (diffusely spread), and is most often caused by ingestion of asbestos particles.

Mesothelium: a thin layer of mesoderm cells, which is the ', peritoneum, pleura, pericardium.

metastases: the spread of tumor cells of a body part to another party unrelated to the body by ties of blood or lymph.

Prediction: forecasting the probable course of the disease is unique. Prognostic factors are factors related to prognosis.

TNM staging: a page of links embryo stage, tumor size, local growth against the spread, lymph node involvement and the presence or absence of distant metastases.

tumors: a tissue mass, independent growth of surrounding structures and has no physiological function / tumor. A tumor may be benign or malignant.

Internships What Is Mesothelioma?

Staging is the process of finding how far the cancer has spread. Staging of mesothelioma is based on imaging studies such as radiographs, CT and MRI. Treatment and outlook for patients with mesothelioma depends largely on the stage (extent of spread) of cancer. Since pleural mesothelioma occurs most frequently, and has been most studied, it is the only mesothelioma as a staging classification exists.

staging system used in most cases of mesothelioma have Butchart system. This system is mainly based on measurement of the mass of the primary tumor and to share the stages of mesothelioma I-IV.

Butchart Staging System

Stage I: Mesothelioma is present in the right or left lung, and can also cause lung, pericardium, or diaphragm (the muscle to distinguish breast from the abdomen) on the same side.

Stage II: Mesothelioma invades the chest wall or involves the (food passage connecting the throat to the stomach), esophagus, heart, or pleura on both sides. The lymph nodes in the chest may also be involved.

Stage III: Mesothelioma has penetrated through the diaphragm into the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity). Lymph nodes than those of the breast may also be involved.

Stage IV: There is evidence of distant metastases (spread through the bloodstream to other organs).

Another classification system has been developed recently by the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC). This is a TNM system, similar to systems used to stop most other cancer. T is for tumor (its size and how far it has spread to nearby organs), N is spread to lymph nodes and M for metastasis (spread to distant organs). TNM staging, information about the tumor, lymph nodes and metastasis is combined with a process called stage grouping to assign a stage described by Roman numerals I to IV. Slight differences between the TNM classification system and the AJCC staging system Butchart.

TNM classification system

Stage I: Mesothelioma of the pleura is left or right. It can also infect the lungs, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side. It has not yet spread to lymph nodes.

Stage II: Mesothelioma has spread from the pleura on one side of the nearby peribronchial and / or hilar lymph nodes near the lung on the same side. It also may have spread to the lungs, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side.

Stage III: Mesothelioma has spread into the chest muscles, ribs, heart, esophagus, or other organs of the chest on the same side as the primary tumor, with or without spread to lymph nodes and subcarinal or mediastinal on the same side as the primary tumor. subcarinal nodes located at the point where the trachea branches into the lungs to the left and right. mediastinal lymph nodes are located behind the chest bone of the space in front of the heart. Mesothelioma with the same degree of local spread in phase II, which have spread to subcarinal and / or mediastinal lymph nodes on the same side is also in Phase III.

Stage IV: Mesothelioma has spread to lymph nodes in the chest on the opposite side of the primary tumor, or directly extends to the pleura or lung on the opposite side, or directly extends to the peritoneum, or directly extends to the organs of the abdominal cavity or neck. No evidence of distant metastases of mesothelioma (spread to other organs through the bloodstream) or spread over the organs of the chest or abdomen is involved in this phase.

Although recently developed TNM classification is the most accurate and precise, the original Butchart staging system is still used most often to describe the spread of cases of pleural mesothelioma. Understanding Mesothelioma staging systems is important both for the evaluation and understanding of weather, and also in the evaluation of treatment options.

Prognostic factors

Because pleural mesothelioma has been better studied than peritoneal mesothelioma know more about the factors associated with prognosis for pleural mesothelioma. younger age at diagnosis, functional status (functional status) and the absence of weight loss is associated with a more favorable prognosis.

Mesotheliomas are usually of three different types of cells (histology): 1) type of skin cell - the best prognosis, 2) fibrosarcomatous cell type - carries the worst prognosis and 3) mixed cell type - the average forecast.

Manage Your Medical Expenses

The volume of paperwork involved in managing the insurance claim forms, co-payments, state benefits, etc, can be overwhelming for a mesothelioma patient is concentrating on his health, but keeping records organized accurate, can eliminate unnecessary stress.

Perhaps the easiest way to keep the information provided when submitting insurance claims, is to use a paper calendar to take note of all doctor visits, lab tests, the procedures and treatments, including medicines obtained. If this information is recorded on the day that happens, you have an entire archive file when needed. Other documents you need to organize in a binder or expandable file including:

Lyrics to all providers of health care.

Invoices and receipts for prescription drugs.

Proceeds from the co-pays or other health care costs.

Insurance claims.

Compensation received.

Keep your medical expenses covered by a team of basic spreadsheet is another option, or there is a specialized software for those who prefer a better display of information and the ability to search for information and management. One such program is the "medical director" that Quicken offers. This program allows you to track and organize medical expenses, tax deductions, medical history and prescription of several people, insurance payments and deductibles and billing.

Another solution is to hire someone to manage your application for you and if you feel you need professional help, there is the Medicare aid applications available in many areas. These professionals can file and track claims, you can communicate with health professionals and insurers to resolve claims, review medical bills for accuracy and appeal rejected applications. Service fees can vary considerably depending on the supplier.

For those who have Medicare coverage, a program to help health insurance is available in all states. Counselors can help Medicare beneficiaries understand their benefits, and may make suggestions on the establishment of a system of record keeping.

Question & Answers With Dr. Baker Sugar

These are the questions that Mr. Sugarbaker by a patient in a surgical procedure mesothelioma in January 1997.

What exactly will be removed during the surgery?

The surgery is called extrapleural pneumonectomy. Is the elimination of the left lung, the parietal pleura (lining of the lung), ipsilateral pericardium (left of the inner wall of the heart), diaphragm, ipsilateral (left side of the diaphragm).

How many surgeries of this type for mesothelioma have you done?

250

Among these patients, which is the survival rate percentage?

average survival rate is 41 months.

Among patients who survived what the quality of life?

The quality of life for most patients was very normal, some have even returned to work. Patients should not be dependent on oxygen. Patients with epithelial cell type without lymph node have a survival rate of 74 years 5.2% to 39% response. (P. 288 of the study)

How long a hospital stay is required for this operation?

5-10 days of stay, unless there are complications.

How long does it take to recover after surgery?

The full recovery time is about one year.

How soon after surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy to start?

Chemotherapy will start around 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. There will be three cycles of treatment. A cycle of Taxol, a cycle of carboplatin and so the last period with the two chemotherapeutic agents, followed by one month after radiotherapy. total turnaround time is 3 1 / 2 months and the recovery time.

Based on the test results of an MRI, cardiac ultrasound, and V / Q scan, the stage of cancer asbestos?

Phase I, because there is no evidence of lymph node involvement.

Based on surgery before November 15, 1996, how long to wait before having surgery again?

Surgery can be done now. They use the same incision site.

What are the risks associated with surgery?

Hemorrhage, respiratory failure, pneumonia, broken diaphragmatic patch, perforated duodenal ulcer, empyema (infection), upper gastrointestinal bleeding, deep vein thrombosis, death.

Based on additional tests, cancer is localized in the left lung?

Yes, there was no evidence of cancer of the chest wall, right lung, or diaphragm.

Lawyers

Five tips for the legal process of patients with mesothelioma

To decide whether to pursue legal action, and select a lawyer to represent you as mesothelioma or asbestos lawsuit are important decisions that should be done carefully. Here are five tips to consider:

1) You have probably been exposed to asbestos

Some mesothelioma patients know work around asbestos, but many do not know how they were exposed. In fact, many are not sure if they are ever near this carcinogen. Unfortunately, there are thousands of products that contain asbestos - cigarette filters, hair dryers, brakes, basement and roof materials, pipes, boilers, insulation, and many other products can be found throughout the home and at work. mesothelioma patients are often not aware that the products contained around for this type of cancer. In addition, the latency (time between exposure to asbestos and mesothelioma diagnosis) can be more than 30 years. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma it is more likely that you have been exposed to asbestos multiple times in your life and that this was decades before diagnosis. An experienced lawyer can help you identify the different ways in which they were exposed.

2) Do not wait to explore the legal options

When he received the news of this terrible disease, you feel that you have time to deal with legal issues - should I file a claim? Should I talk to a lawyer? However, you should not wait too long to learn about your legal rights for at least three reasons:

1. Prescription - There is a limitation that means you have limited time to file your case after diagnosis. The limitation period is set by each state and varies. If you wait past this time, you can not file. The clock usually starts ticking on the date of diagnosis.

2. Financial pressure - The diagnosis can lead to financial difficulties, less income, more expenses and treatments not covered by insurance. Knowing that money can be in the way of lodging a complaint can make a substantial financial aid, the treatment options available, and removing at least one restriction.

3. Lawyers can be excellent resources - lawyers and more experienced mesothelioma law firms can often be excellent sources of information about various doctors and treatment options for this disease.

3) Do not choose based solely on the Attorney TV Ads

Many asbestos lawyers advertise on television, but should not be used in a TV commercial for the sole reason to hire a lawyer. The actual account information that counts. For example, what kind of results were obtained in a law firm? How committed they are cancer? How many other cases like yours have managed?

4) Make sure you understand the charges

Preparation is the term meaning that the lawyer is paid only after they collect money for you. Almost all asbestos-related lawsuits are handled on an emergency basis. The amount of fees that your lawyer may charge varies by state. It is generally between 33% and 40% of the amount awarded to you after deduction of expenses. It is important to discuss fees openly, ask what services they cover, how they are calculated, and if there will be no additional charge.

5) Find a trusted Who Cares

For something as important as mesothelioma litigation, a lawyer is not only experienced, competent and dedicated, but also a trusted partner who understands the pressures and stress you feel. The lawyer should know that your health needs are most critical and medical aspects of this disease always take precedence over the legal aspects. The best lawyers are those who are not only experts at what they do, but also care and support, thoughtful and compassionate.

Mesothelioma Treatment

Mesothelioma treatments have thus far been unable to limit the spread of the deadly cancer. Treatments for mesothelioma are divided into two categories: traditional mesothelioma treatments and new mesothelioma treatments.
Traditional mesothelioma treatments are the same as those used to treat most other cancers, and include:

* Surgery
* Chemotherapy
* Radiation therapy (radiotherapy)

Traditional mesothelioma treatments are often used in conjunction with one another in an effort to provide the most thorough and effective care. For example, trimodality therapy combines all three traditional methods of treatment. First, chemotherapy is administered with the aim of slowing the growth of malignant mesothelioma.

Next, surgery designed to physically remove a mesothelioma tumor mass is performed (extrapleural pneumonectomy is often performed as part of trimodality therapy). In the final step, postoperative radiation therapy is used to target any lingering mesothelioma cells. Although trimodality therapy has been unable to eradicate malignant mesothelioma, it has proven to be effective in prolonging patients’ survival time by as much as five years (the average post-diagnosis survival time is one to two years).

New mesothelioma treatments have been researched and developed with the hope of succeeding where traditional methods have not. Mesothelioma researchers are optimistic that new mesothelioma treatment modalities will eventually prove to be successful, though they have yet to yield results that are any better than traditional methods.

New treatments for mesothelioma include:

* Development of new chemotherapy agents
* Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)
* Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
* Immunotherapy
* Gene therapy

As with other cancerous diseases, the progression of mesothelioma is typically broken into stages, with the treatment options based on the stage of the disease.
Stages of Mesothelioma

The staging commonly used for mesothelioma is the Brigham staging system, and it can be described as follows:
Stage 1 occurs when the tumor lies completely within the capsule of the

pleura, without swollen lymph nodes (adenopathy).

Stage 2 has the characteristics of Stage 1, except that the tumor has spread and there is presence of adenopathy. The boundaries of the tumor still allow for a resection (removal of the tumor) without cutting into other organs.

Stage 3 includes extension of the disease into the chest wall or into the heart, through the diaphragm or peritoneum, or outside the pleura to involve the lymph nodes.

Stage 4 occurs when the cancer has formed in distant organs through metastases.

Unfortunately, none of the treatment strategies have been shown to be particularly effective against the disease.

PLEURAL EFFUSION

One of the most common symptoms of mesothelioma is a pleural effusion, or an accumulation of fluid between the parietal pleura (the pleura covering the chest wall and diaphragm) and the visceral pleura (the pleura covering the lungs). Both of these membranes are covered with mesothelial cells which, under normal conditions, produce a small amount of fluid that acts as a lubricant between the chest wall and the lung. Any excess fluid is absorbed by blood and lymph vessels maintaining a balance. When too much fluid forms, the result is an effusion.

TYPES

Pleural effusion is broken down into two categories, transudates and exudates. A transudate is a clear fluid that forms not because the pleural surfaces are diseased, but because of an imbalance between the normal production and removal of the fluid. The most common cause of transudative fluid is congestive heart failure. An exudate, which is often cloudy and contains many cells and proteins, results from disease of the pleura itself, and is common to mesothelioma. To determine whether a fluid is a transudate or exudate, a diagnostic thoracentesis, in which a needle or catheter is used to obtain a fluid sample, may be conducted.

SYMPTOMS

As the volume of fluid increases, shortness of breath, known as "dyspnea", and sometimes pain, ranging from mild to stabbing, may occur. Some patients may experience a dry cough. When the doctor listens to the patient’s chest with a stethoscope, normal breath sounds are muted, and tapping on the chest will reveal dull rather than hollow sounds.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis of pleural effusion is usually accomplished with a simple chest x-ray, although CT scans or ultrasound may also be used. A special x-ray technique, called a lateral decubitus film, may be used to detect smaller effusions or to enable the physician to estimate of the amount of fluid present. If the underlying cause of the effusion is readily apparent (such as in the case of severe congestive heart failure), sampling of the fluid may not be necessary, however, because pleural effusion may be symptomatic of a number of disease processes from benign to malignant, a fluid sample is generally taken. Diagnostic thoracentesis, in which cells are extracted from the pleural cavity, is commonly done when the possibility of mesothelioma exists, however, in up to 85% of cases, the fluid tests negative or inconclusive even though cancer is present. It is ultimately a needle biopsy of the pleura (lining of the lung) or an open surgical biopsy which confirms a mesothelioma diagnosis.

TREATMENT

Pleural effusion caused by heart failure or infection can usually be resolved by directing treatment at the cause, however, when testing has realized no diagnosis, and fluid continues to build or recur, doctors may recommend chest tube drainage and chemical pleurodesis. Chemical pleurodesis is a technique in which a sclerosing agent is used to abrade the pleural surfaces producing an adhesion between the parietal and visceral pleurae. This will prevent further effusion by eliminating the pleural space. Talc appears to be the most effective agent for pleurodesis, with a success rate of nearly 95%. It is highly effective when administered by either poudrage or slurry. Poudrage is the most widely used method of instilling talc into the pleural space. Before spraying the talc, the medical team removes all pleural fluid to completely collapse the lung. After the talc is administered, they inspect the pleural cavity to be sure the talc has been evenly distributed over the pleural surface. Some doctors prefer to use talc mixed with saline solution which forms a wet slurry that can roll around the pleural cavity.

MESOTHELIOMA SYMPTOMS

The early symptoms of mesothelioma are generally non-specific, and may lead to a delay in diagnosis. Sometimes resembling viral pneumonia, pleural mesothelioma patients may present with shortness of breath, chest pain and/or persistent cough; some patients show no symptoms at all. A chest x-ray may show a build-up of fluid or pleural effusion (discussed below). The right lung is affected 60% of the time, with involvement of both lungs being seen in approximately 5% of patients at the time of diagnosis. Less common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include fever, night sweats and weight loss. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include pain or swelling in the abdomen due to a build-up of fluid, nausea, weight loss, bowel obstruction, anemia or swelling of the feet.

PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT THESE SYMPTOMS MAY BE CAUSED BY MESOTHELIOMA OR BY OTHER LESS SERIOUS CONDITIONS. ONLY A DOCTOR CAN MAKE A DEFINITIVE DIAGNOSIS.

MESOTHELIOMA COMMON QUESTIONS

What is Mesothelioma? What is the difference between pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma?Malignant mesothelioma is a disease in which a cancerous tumor grows on the mesothelium - the sac lining the internal body cavities. The specific type of mesothelioma is named for the tissue where the cancer started. Pleural mesothelioma starts in the chest, in the pleura that surrounds the lungs (outer lining of the lungs and internal chest wall). It makes up about 70% of mesothelioma cases. Peritoneal mesothelioma starts in the lining of the abdominal cavity.

Although sometimes referred to as "asbestos lung cancer", mesothelioma is not the same as lung cancer. Lung cancers occur inside the lung itself; mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the lung. Mesothelioma is rare, striking fewer than 3000 Americans per year.

What happens inside the body?
The cancerous cells clump together in a malignant tumor.  As it grows, the tumor pushes against and into other organs and healthy tissue, causing symptoms.  Because the mesothelium is a flat thin lining, the mesothelioma tumor often takes a diffuse shape.

In its advanced stage the cancer metastasizes through the lymph system and spreads to other parts of the body.  It is still referred to as mesothelioma because it started in the mesothelium. 

What are the symptoms of mesothelioma? 
Our mesothelioma symptoms page goes into detail about the signs of this cancer. It is important to seek professional medical advice when trying to diagnose for mesothelioma because the symptoms can be confused with symptoms of other diseases.

Major symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:

• Shortness of breath caused by expanding pleural effusion
• Persistent dry cough
• Chest pain

Major symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include:

• Ascites (fluid in the abdomen)
• Swelling or lumps in the abdomen
• Abdominal pain

Some patients experience few of the visible symptoms.  Formal diagnostic procedures are needed to determine if the cancer is present.

How do you get malignant mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos, once regarded as a miracle mineral, was popular due its lightweight but tough characteristics as well as for its heat-resistant properties. This naturally occurring mineral was used in many commercial and consumer products, from construction materials such as cement, roofing shingles and insulation, to consumer and industrial applications such as hair dryers, automobile brake pads and pipe insulation.

Most people with malignant mesothelioma worked on jobs where they breathed asbestos. Others were exposed to asbestos in a household environment, often without knowing it.

How much exposure does it take to get the disease? What is the latency period?
Very little exposure can result in mesothelioma. Sometimes people who worked with asbestos for as little as one or two months get mesothelioma. The "latency period" refers to the time between asbestos exposure and diagnosis of the disease. For mesothelioma, the latency period can be decades long, and people exposed in the 1940s, 50s, 60s, and 70s are now being diagnosed.

How do doctors treat malignant mesothelioma?
Each patient has an individualized treatment plan which takes into account the type and stage of the cancer as well as the patient's overall health. Traditional mesothelioma treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or a combination of these. Contact us at 1-877-367-6376 if you want to talk about reviewing treatment options.

Is there any promising research or are there promising new drugs for mesothelioma?
Scientists and doctors are conducting research at cancer centers all over the United States. Researchers are continually developing new and more effective drugs as well as new surgical and radiotherapy treatment techniques. In the past few years, there have been several major advances in the management of mesothelioma, including more accurate staging, improvements in surgical techniques and postoperative care, new chemotherapy regimens, and new radiotherapy techniques such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy. Some of this research is being conducted through clinical trials on meothelioma patients, for which you may be eligible. Please call us if you need additional information on current trials.

What should I do if I think I've been exposed to asbestos but don't have mesothelioma?
You probably will not get this rare disease, but you should remain vigilant and get regular check-ups. Let your doctor know about your asbestos exposure.

I was exposed to asbestos when I was in the military. Could that be how I got mesothelioma?
The armed forces used asbestos extensively in the 20th Century.  Mesothelioma has a long latency period and often does not appear until decades after the patient came into contact with asbestos. Veterans from all branches of the service are now developing malignant mesothelioma. We have worked with veterans from all over the country. We can help you find VA resources and medical assistance. Our veterans section goes into more detail or feel free to call us at 1-877-367-6376.

Where can I find information on living with mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma Aid is a good website for resource for families dealing with mesothelioma. It includes advice and referrals to other resources for coping with cancer, caregiving, financial challenges, and support groups. Alternatively, contact us here at Mesothelioma Web for help finding resources for dealing with this disease and for getting treatment.

What other resources are available for people with malignant mesothelioma?
Should you need more information or have additional questions, please contact us and we can refer you to sources that can answer your specific question. We can be reached at 1-877-367-6376.

How is Peritoneal Mesothelioma Diagnosed?

Mesothelioma doctors may suspect peritoneal mesothelioma if the patient complains of stomach, chest, or abdominal pain. Suspicious hernias may actually be a pleural effusion caused by peritoneal tumor growth. Misdiagnosis is common and patients will likely undergo multiple imaging scans and a diagnostic biopsy before an official diagnosis is made.

Diagnostic procedures in which fluid is extracted from the peritoneum for lab testing are the only way to conclusively diagnose peritoneal mesothelioma. Samples will be examined for the presence of malignant cells. Once malignant cells are detected, further testing will be needed to classify these cells as malignant mesothelioma.

What Causes Peritoneal Mesothelioma?

Peritoneal mesothelioma is known only to be caused by exposure to asbestos, a microscopic natural fiber that was used heavily in industry. Asbestos is said to reach the abdominal wall by one of two methods. The first is through ingested asbestos fibers which are processed through digestion and become lodged in peritoneum. These other method is through the lungs and lymph nodes, by inhaled asbestos fibers. Malignant mesothelioma of the pleura is also known to metastasize directly into the abdominal cavity if its spread is not slowed.

Many of those who have worked with asbestos materials have developed peritoneal mesothelioma as a result of exposure to friable asbestos fibers. Asbestos was used in myriad industrial materials and construction products. Exposure to asbestos was common in aluminum plants, steel mills, power plants, and naval shipyards.

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a relatively rare disease, with only 200-500 diagnoses each year in the United States being documented. Risk however, is sustained in those who have been exposed to asbestos. Even those exposed many years ago are potentially at risk for the development of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma. Latency between exposure to asbestos and the development of peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms can be anywhere from 20-50 years. Misdiagnosis is also common because peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms closely mimic minor stomach/abdominal discomfort and hernia. Nevertheless, those with clear asbestos exposure history should be aware of the disease and speak with their doctor or cancer specialist if they believe they be experiencing symptoms related to mesothelioma.

How is Peritoneal Mesothelioma Treated?

Prognosis of mesothelioma patients is poor, and peritoneal mesothelioma patients are no exception. Most peritoneal mesothelioma treatment regimens for patients include palliative methods such as mesothelioma chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, if the disease is diagnosed in its earlier stages, such patients as those diagnosed with stage 1 mesothelioma, these individuals  may be eligible for surgical resection of the disease, which could potentially add years to initial prognoses.

Surgery is possible for patients diagnosed with earlier-stage disease. Some surgical options include pneumonectomy, extra-pleural pneumonectomy, and palliative procedures such as thoracentesis or pleurodesis. Pneumonectomy and extra-pleural pneumonectomy are extensive procedures that involve there removal of the affect lung and surrounding body structures. Certain physicians, including Dr. David Sugarbaker of the International Mesothelioma Program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, MA, have become extremely well-versed and experienced in the surgical treatment of malignant mesothelioma. In many cases, surgical treatments for mesothelioma will be coupled with chemotherapy or radiation therapy regimens.

Chemotherapy is the most common treatment for mesothelioma disease. Currently, there is only a single chemotherapy regimen (Alimta (pemetrexed) in conjunction with Cisplatin) approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a prescribed therapy for the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma. There are however, dozens of clinical trials being conducted for mesothelioma patients experimenting with new drugs, including gemcitabine, Navelbine, Onconase, and others for the treatment of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the thin cell walls which surround the abdominal cavity, known as the peritoneum. This thin membrane acts a lubricant within the abdominal cavity so that surrounding organs and internal body structures may contract and expand within their normal body function.

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Other types of mesothelioma cancer include malignant pleural mesothelioma, occurring in the cell wall surrounding the lungs, and malignant pericardial mesothelioma, which occurs in the pericardial lining of the heart. Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second rarest form of the disease and accounts for approximately 20% of all mesothelioma cases each year.

Pericardial Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that originates in the mesothelium, a thin wall of cells that surround the body's organs and internal structures. Pericardial mesothelioma originates in the lining of the heart. Other locales of the disease are malignant pleural mesothelioma, which occurs in the lining of the lungs and malignant peritoneal mesothelioma, which occurs in the abdomen wall. Pericardial mesothelioma is the rarest of these malignancies and accounts for only an estimated 10 percent of all mesothelioma incidences annually.

What Causes Pericardial Mesothelioma?

Pericardial mesothelioma is an asbestos cancer, meaning it's only known cause is asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring, but toxic, mineral that was used in industrial capacities. While the precise route by which microscopic asbestos fibers reaches the pericardial lining is not known, mesothelioma doctors surmise that inhaled asbestos fibers are absorbed into the bloodstream and become entangled in the heart's lining as the blood processes through the heart. Malignant mesothelioma occurring in other parts of the body, such as in the pleura or peritoneum, can also metastasize to the pericardial lining.

How is Pericardial Mesothelioma Treated?

Prognoses are poor in cases of pericardial mesothelioma, just as nearly every mesothelioma prognosis is. However, several treatment options exist to help patients manage the disease and maintain comfort. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are the most likelymesothelioma treatment options for patients of this disease. Mesothelioma surgery is typically not an option because of the location of the disease and the risk of grave damage to the tumor area.

What Causes Pleural Mesothelioma?

Pleural mesothelioma is known only be caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring and microscopic mineral that was used for hundreds of years in a number of different industrial compounds. Asbestos fibers are extremely durable, but also extremely difficult to expel from the body once introduced to the internal tissue.

Upon inhalation, asbestos fibers will lodge on the outer layers of the lung tissue and within the pleura, a thin membrane of mesothelial cells which lines the chest cavity. This lining allows for the free movement of the body’s internal body structures because it provides a special lubrication to the surface of these structures. The pleura, like other mesothelial membrane, is a delicate structure and even microscopic asbestos fibers can cause pleural plaques to form on its surface and eventually, pleural mesothelioma tumor cells. Generally, it takes many years between asbestos exposure and the development of adverse health complications, as the fibers will slowly irritate and inflame the internal tissue until symptoms appear.

Many of those exposed to asbestos have successfully received compensation from asbestos product manufacturers for injuries and illnesses such as pleural mesothelioma. If you believe you were wrongfully exposed to asbestos and have developed an asbestos-related health complication, we urge you to complete the brief form on this page. We’ll rush you a complimentary mesothelioma and asbestos exposure information packet detailing advancements in the treatment of pleural mesothelioma, top doctors and cancer centers, and mesothelioma attorney options you may have.

Pleural Mesothelioma Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is likely the most prevalent treatment utilized by patients of malignant pleural mesothelioma. While several different chemotherapy drugs have been utilized to varying degrees of effectiveness for the management of malignant pleural mesothelioma, only one has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a prescribed therapy for the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma. A combination of Alimta(Pemetrexed) and Cisplatin is currently the only cocktail prescribed en masse for the general treatment of pleural mesothelioma. However, several other clinical trials are currently active attempting to determine the effectiveness of other drugs including Gemcitabine, Navelbine, and Onconase.

Pleural Mesothelioma Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy has been utilized in the treatment of many types of cancer and pleural mesothelioma is no different. Often, radiation is not able to manage cancer by itself so it is combined with either surgery, chemotherapy, or both to augment the treatment plan as a whole. Radiation therapy for pleural mesothelioma utilizes external beam radiation to mutate tumor cells within the body and slow their growth and spread.

Alternative Therapy for Pleural Mesothelioma

A growing school in cancer care is integrative approaches in the treatment of cancer. Integrative oncology utilizes not only the conventional therapies discussed above, but also untraditional therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and reflexology to assist the patient in managing pain, anxiety, and restlessness. Patients battling pleural mesothelioma have effectively utilized alternative therapies such as these to increase the effectiveness of their treatment program overall. Generally, patients who are able to withstand the difficult side-effects of more potent chemotherapy and radiation treatments will be best able to extend their mesothelioma prognosis. Patients of pleural mesothelioma who have utilized alternative therapies have been able to do just that. However, most of these therapies are preferential and will depend on the health of the patient as to whether or not they will be able to engage in them. As will anything, patients should seek the consultation of their physician or cancer specialist before engaging in any alternative therapy.

Pleural Mesothelioma Treatment

Nearly all patients diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma are able to receive some form of treatment for their illness. While there is currently no cure for mesothelioma, patients have been able to extend survival rates through advanced mesothelioma treatment regimens currently being developed at mesothelioma clinics and cancer centers across the United States.

Pleural Mesothelioma Surgery

Surgical resection is difficult in pleural mesothelioma patients when the disease is diagnosed in later stages because at that time the tumor has typically metastasized to other areas of the body like the abdominal cavity and lymph nodes. However, in early stage diagnoses, surgery can absolutely be utilized to slow the advance of mesothelioma disease.

Common surgical procedures utilized in the management of malignant mesothelioma are pneumonectomy and extrapleural pneumonectomy. Pneumonectomy is a general procedure utilized not only in patients of malignant mesothelioma, but also those battling lung cancers or related lung conditions. Pleurectomy involves the removal of a portion or the entire affected lung in patients. Extrapleural pneumonectomy is a more comprehensive procedure that is more tailored to mesothelioma patients. Extrapleural pneumonectomy involves the removal of the entire affected lung, the pleura, the diaphragm, and the pericardium, which is the mesothelial lining that surrounds the heart cavity.

Pleural Mesothelioma

Pleural mesothelioma is often seen in people who have been exposed to high levels of asbestos on the job. It sometimes takes 10 years or more for changes to appear that are indicative of pleural disease which affects the thin membrane layer in the chest. These differences can include a thickening or calcification of the pleural lining and is usually diagnosed as pleural plaques, pleural thickening and pleural calcification.

In most instances, pleural disease is not considered fatal but it does have the ability to impair lung function and it does confirm that a person has sustained significant asbestos exposure and could be at a higher risk for developing more severe asbestos cancer. If you have been diagnosed with pleural disease it is important to preserve your legal rights.

However, pleural plaques can lay the groundwork for pleural mesothelioma, which is an extremely aggressive cancer known only to be caused by asbestos exposure. Pleural mesothelioma originates in the pleura but quickly spreads to the outer chest wall, abdomen, and heart. Pleural mesothelioma is typically fatal within 1 year of diagnosis. However, early recognition of risk factors, like asbestos exposure will typically lead to early detection of the cancer. Those whose disease is discovered early enough will likely be much more eligible for life-sustaining and bettering treatments. Patients who receive an early mesothelioma diagnosis may be eligible for surgical resection of the cancer, which can extend life years beyond that of typical mesothelioma patients.

There are ways for patients to manage the disease through mesothelioma treatment, including traditional mesothelioma radiation and chemotherapy methods which can ease symptoms of the disease and make the cancer much more manageable. In patients where a diagnosis is made of early stage disease, mesothelioma surgery can extend the survival ratefar beyond previous levels in untreated disease.

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Mesothelioma Treatment

Once an individual has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the next step is to discussmesothelioma treatment options with his/her physician. Recent scientific research has produced significant breakthroughs with regard to treatment protocols for mesothelioma patients and more options are now available for managing mesothelioma and supporting improved quality of life. Newly diagnosed mesothelioma patients always have many questions about the treatment options that would be most effective for them, including those about new treatment therapies like Alimta® and Cisplatin and other chemotherapy drugs. In addition to these newer drugs that are being used to treat asbestos cancer, mesothelioma patients also have a number of "conventional" treatment options to consider, including mesothelioma chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery.

Mesothelioma clinical trials and experimental treatments are still other options that some mesothelioma patients may be eligible to participate in. Our site features a comprehensivemesothelioma cancer treatment section that includes important information for patients and families. We've included resources on top mesothelioma doctors such as Dr. Sugarbaker, as well as a comprehensive list of questions that you may wish to discuss with your personal physician when preparing a mesothelioma treatment plan. We are always providing new and informative resources regarding mesothelioma treatment including: Clinical Trials, conventional treatments, experimental therapies, as well as alternative mesothelioma treatment options. Check back often for the most recent advances in mesothelioma treatments.