New Findings for Peritoneal Mesothelioma

According to recent research conducted at Columbia University, resection, intraperitoneal, chemotherapy, and whole abdominal radiation therapy are effective to treat malignant peritoneal mesothelioma when they are combined.Hopeful FindingsReports show that peritoneal mesothelioma is less common that pleural mesothelioma, making up only 20 percent of all cases.However, this is still great news for researchers, patients and families of patients suffering from this potentially fatal illness.Looking for Effective TreatmentsThe latency period for abdominal mesothelioma is reportedly 20 to 30 years.Since this type of cancer is so rare, controlled trails of involving different treatments are not readily available.Though, the most common treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma is surgery, followed by systematic and/or intraperitoneal chemotherapy.
Study ConductedA study was recently conducted which analyzed 27 patients with malignant peritoneal mesothelioma.The regime given to the patients involved surgical debulking, four intraperitoneal courses of cisplatin combined with four intraperitoneal courses of doxorubicin, four doses of intraperitoneal gamma interferon, and a whole abdominal radiation therapy.Researchers found that there was a median survival rate of 70 months among the patients in addition to a three year survival rate in 67 percent of the patients.

Texas Mesothelioma Lawyer

The National Center for Health Statistics reports that a total of 125 deaths were contributed to mesothelioma lung cancer in Texas. Our law firm has assisted many clients who have been effected by asbestos exposure and are waiting to help you. Please fill out the form to the right to contact our law firm today.
For health-related support, consult these centers and specialists in Texas:
Baylor Health Care Dallas , TX Phone: 1-800-4BAYLOR
San Antonio Cancer Institute San Antonio, TX Phone: (210) 616-5798
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center University of Texas Houston, TX Phone: (713) 792-6161
David C. Rice, MDAssistant Surgeon and Assistant Professor of SurgeryDirector, Mesothelioma ProgramDirector, Minimally Invasive Surgery Program, Thoracic SurgeryThe University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer CenterHouston, TXPhone: (713) 794-1477 View asbestos exposed areas in Texas.

Asbestos Exposure: Who Is At Risk?

Asbestos refers to a group of six naturally occurring fibrous minerals. Three of the six types of asbestos were once widely used in the United States for the strength and durability of their fibers. The federal government began strictly regulating asbestos in the mid-1970s after discovering that the mineral caused serious health problems, including asbestosis and mesothelioma .
Asbestos becomes dangerous when the fibers are released into the air and inhaled or ingested in high concentrations over a prolonged period of time. Individuals face the risk of inhaling or ingesting airborne fibers when asbestos-containing products are worn down, disturbed, or damaged.
Millions of American workers have been exposed to asbestos since the 1940s when its use peaked in the United States. While certain occupations are known to increase the risk for asbestos exposure, there are also a number of non-occupational asbestos exposure risks.
Occupational Asbestos Exposure Risk
Many people are exposed to asbestos at work. The following are some of the occupational environments that may increase an individual's asbestos exposure risk:
Construction sites
Asbestos product manufacturing sites
Oil refineries
Mines
Shipyards
Steel mills
Power plants
Automotive manufacturing facilities
Offshore rust removal sites
Railroads
Maritime operation sites
Demolition sites
Non-Occupational Asbestos Exposure Risk
Not all asbestos exposure occurs in the workplace. The following are a few non-occupational asbestos exposure risks:
Asbestos-contaminated drinking water
Asbestos products including talc and various older appliances
Vermiculite-containing garden products such as certain fertilizers and pesticides
Another asbestos exposure risk is called paraoccupational exposure and occurs when an individual is exposed to asbestos through a family member who works around the dangerous fibers. Workers heavily exposed to asbestos may bring the hazardous fibers into the home on their shoes, clothing, skin, and hair. Family members or others who live in the same home face an increased asbestos exposure risk.
If you have a heightened asbestos exposure risk, you may wish to consult with a physician experienced in the evaluation and management of asbestos-related diseases.

Asbestos-Induced Lung Cancer in Veterans

According to statistics, more than 30 percent of Americans suffering from mesothelioma—a deadly asbestos-induced lung cancer—were exposed to asbestos while serving their nation. Veterans and shipyard workers arguably face the greatest risk of developing mesothelioma or similar disease because of the extensive use of asbestos in military equipment and products, buildings, ships, and submarines. This is especially true for veterans who served during or after World War II and before the1970s when the government began regulating use of asbestos. Sadly, hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of American veterans have suffered exposure to asbestos, putting them at higher risk of developing asbestosis, mesothelioma, or other illness.Veterans who have been diagnosed with an asbestos-induced lung cancer such as mesothelioma have legal rights and may be able to recover compensation for their losses and suffering. To learn if you are eligible to file a claim for your injuries, please contact us today. One of our experienced asbestos attorneys will evaluate your case FREE of charge and determine your best course of action.The Risk for Navy VeteransAsbestos-induced lung cancer is a significant problem among Navy veterans, particularly because the use of asbestos was so very extensive on ships. Virtually no area on a Navy ship built before the 1970s is safe, including:
Fire and engine rooms
Boiler rooms
Navigation rooms
Mess halls
Sleeping quarters
Additionally, commonly used products such as gaskets, cables, insulation, adhesives, valves, and numerous others contained asbestos. Navy veterans, like other veterans, were prone to carry asbestos dust home on their clothes, thereby exposing their loved ones to the dangerous fibers. Veterans RightsVeterans groups across the country have started taking action to ensure their rights are protected. For instance, some veterans organizations have called on Congress to fund early lung cancer detection programs, which is especially important given the long latency period for mesothelioma—usually 30 to 50 years. Individual veterans and, in some cases, their families are filing legal claims to hold responsible parties accountable for the suffering caused by asbestos-induced lung disease.

Where Asbestos is Found

Every year in the U.S., according to a new Environmental Working Group (EWG) study, almost 10,000 deaths in the U.S. are attributed to asbestos exposure. When broken down that means 30 deaths per day are because of asbestos exposure and the numbers do not appear to be declining.
Since asbestos exposure can take ten to fifty years to develop into asbestos related diseases, the deaths and illnesses now being suffered are a result of exposure to asbestos in the work construction industries during the 1960s and through to the 1980s.
Common Asbestos Misconception
Many Americans are confused as to why asbestos related deaths and illnesses are still occurring since the belief is that asbestos has been banned. This is a common misconception. In 1989, the EPA banned the use of asbestos in all new uses and created standards, but any already containing asbestos products remained.
According to a 2004 U.S. Geological Survey, asbestos use is 80 percent contained in roofing products, eight percent contained in gaskets, four percent contained in friction products, and eight percent contained in other consumer products.
Occupational Exposure
Occupational exposure to asbestos can still be widely found for car mechanics, construction workers, and many other industries, as well as exposure within homes containing asbestos in roofing and insulation. Asbestos is found everywhere and unless consumers are continually inquiring about the presence of asbestos in various products the exposure to the carcinogen could be potentially very high for some individuals.
The only measure that would be considered adequate is an immediate ban on asbestos, according to the EWG report conclusion.
Highest At-risk States
The states with the highest number of deaths from asbestosis and mesothelioma are California, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, and Texas. In nine of the ten states that have the highest asbestos rates, the number of mesothelioma and asbestosis deaths continued to increase every year from 1979 to 2001.
The number of mesothelioma and asbestosis that go undetected or misdiagnosed is also considered to be substantial, thus creating a great underestimate of actual asbestos illnesses suffered. The greatest number of asbestos disease rates was found in Los Angeles, CA; Cook County, IL; Philadelphia County, PA; King County, WA; and Harris County, TX.
Asbestos Lawsuit Claims
More than 730,000 asbestos claims have been filed through 2002 according to The Rand Institute for Civil Justice, and a study released in January 2004 showed that 100,000 more asbestos claims were filed in 2003, though some are thought to be duplicates of suits previously filed against other defendants.
The costs associated to the hundreds of thousands of asbestos lawsuits could ultimately reach $200 to $265 billion before asbestos litigation is complete. Insurers spent $1.02 million in 2003 trying to decrease the number of asbestos lawsuits and lower their liability by pushing for the bill that would set up a trust fund to provide compensation for those with asbestos diseases.
The problem with the trust fund is that there have already been inadequate funds for people injured because of asbestos exposure and if people continue to suffer from the asbestos disease for decades to come they may have nowhere to turn when the funds have been depleted.
The EPA has a general guide to show what types of materials may contain asbestos. Included on the list is:
Cement Pipes Cement WallboardCement SidingAsphalt Floor TileVinyl Floor TileVinyl Sheet FlooringFlooring BackingConstruction Mastics (floor, tile, carpet, ceiling tile, etc.)Acoustical PlasterDecorative PlasterTextured Paints/CoatingsCeiling Tiles and Lay-in PanelsSpray-Applied InsulationBlown-in InsulationFireproofing MaterialsTaping Compounds (thermal)Packing Materials (for wall/floor penetrations)High Temperature GasketsLaboratory Hoods/Table TopsLaboratory GlovesSpackling CompoundsFire BlanketsFire CurtainsElevator Equipment PanelsElevator Brake ShoesHVAC Duct InsulationBoiler InsulationBreaching InsulationDuctwork Flexible Fabric ConnectionsCooling TowersPipe Insulation (corrugated air-cell, block, etc.)Heating and Electrical DuctsElectrical Panel PartitionsElectrical ClothElectric Wiring InsulationChalkboardsRoofing ShinglesRoofing FeltBase FlashingThermal Paper ProductsFire DoorsCaulking/PuttiesAdhesivesWallboardJoint CompoundsVinyl Wall Coverings
While companies are afraid asbestos lawsuits will continue for decades because of the latency period between exposure and disease onset, people have been suing for health damages related to asbestos since the 1930s. Manufacturers have had scientific evidence of asbestos dangers since the 1940s but have been involved with cover-ups and industry deception. Asbestos can still be found in countless materials, allowing inhalation of the dangerous minerals to men, women, and children.
The EWG group estimates 100,000 more Americans will die from mesothelioma, asbestosis, and asbestos related lung cancer and gastrointestinal cancer because of exposure in the next ten years.

Asbestos in Schools

Even though asbestos is a known carcinogen - banned in 1989 by the Environmental Protection Agency - it is still found in some schools , causing potential health risks to teachers, students, school staff, and others. The ban did not require schools to remove asbestos-containing materials altogether but did establish certain regulations to ensure that schools manage existing asbestos levels and exposure . The EPA does, however, require schools to remove any damaged asbestos materials on the premises.
Some schools have had asbestos completely removed but the majority of schools simply manage the levels under requirements established by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), which was passed by Congress in 1986. The asbestos management plan requires school authorities to regularly check asbestos levels and document asbestos response actions, including location of asbestos within the school and any action taken to remove or repair asbestos damage. The management plan is intended to keep school occupants safe from asbestos dangers. However, there have been numerous instances of schools failing to comply with the AHERA .
All schools are required to report to parent-teacher organizations once a year on the status of the school's asbestos management plan, including any plans for asbestos removal. Any parent, teacher, or school employee has the right to review the school's asbestos management plan .
Asbestos is a naturally occurring substance but its tiny fibers can become lodged in people's lungs when inhaled or ingested. Inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers can lead to potentially deadly health effects , including lung cancer and mesothelioma - a deadly and rare form of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs or other organs . Health experts previously maintained that only high concentrations of asbestos fibers inhaled over an extended period of time would cause health problems. However, some studies have shown that even short periods of asbestos exposure can lead to adverse health effects .
There is currently no cure for mesothelioma and treatments only extend life expectancy by several months. Since it can take years - sometimes decades - before symptoms of asbestos exposure become evident, people exposed to asbestos fibers in their schools may not find out they have been affected until it is too late.
If you are worried about asbestos violations in your school or your child's school, you should contact your regional EPA asbestos coordinator. If you would like to speak with an asbestos attorney, please contact us .
Additional Resources:
NCEF lists links, books, and journal articles on how asbestos abatement and management is conducted in school facilities as well as how schools can comply with federal regulations.
Recent Asbestos in School News
Aug 6, 2008 - Asbestos Agreement Reached in CT
Aug 4, 2008 - School Project Over Budget Due to Asbestos
June 26, 2008 - Asbestos Scare at LaGrange Middle School

Prevention

In terms of asbestos, mesothelioma prevention is extremely important to reduce the risks of this serious cancer . Mesothelioma is a fatal cancer that affects the lining of the heart, lung, or abdominal cavity. Mesothelioma has been almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure, a group of hazardous fibers that were manufactured in hundreds of industries around the world. There are many ways that people to protect themselves against workplace or non-occupational exposure to asbestos in an effort to prevent mesothelioma.
The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has enacted a number of workplace asbestos regulations to aid in mesothelioma prevention. Under workplace asbestos laws , the permissible level of exposure is 01. fibers per cubic centimeter for an eight-hour work day and one fiber per cubic centimeter in any thirty minute time frame.
Furthermore, workplace regulations to prevent asbestos exposure require employers to frequently monitor and regulate the work environment in addition to providing their employees with protective clothing and respiratory equipment, sufficient hygiene facilities, routine medical exams, and training .
The Environmental Protection Agency recommends a number of steps and precautions people can take to help protect themselves against non-occupational asbestos exposure that may lead to mesothelioma. These mesothelioma prevention methods include, but are not limited to:
Regular inspection and monitoring of asbestos-containing products or materials around the home since asbestos was commonly used in the production of roof shingles, insulation, flooring, and more.
Don't attempt to remove any asbestos-containing materials. It is vital that you enlist the help of an asbestos removal professional who is properly trained to handle the material and can ensure safe removal.
Avoid vacuuming, sweeping, drilling, sanding, or scraping any surfaces that may contain asbestos fibers. Once these fibers are airborne, they may be inhaled or ingested greatly increasing the risk of mesothelioma.
Quit smoking, especially if you work in an industry in which you are frequently exposed to high levels of asbestos. Studies have indicated that asbestos workers who smoke cigarettes have a 50 to 100 times greater risk of dying from mesothelioma or lung cancer.
If you or a loved one is suffering from mesothelioma side effects, it is vital that you seek immediate medical attention at the first sign of symptoms such as chest pains, shortness of breath, coughs, severe weight loss, and more . Early diagnosis and treatment of mesothelioma is the best form of prevention and can produce the most favorable outcome of the disease.

Mesothelioma Statistics - General Mesothelioma Statistics

Mesothelioma is diagnosed in 2,000 to 3,000 new patients each year. Approximately 70 to 80 percent of all cases of mesothelioma are found to be the direct result of asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma has a long latency period, usually lasting from 10 to 50 years. During this time, sufferers may have no symptoms. As a result, mesothelioma statistics may not accurately reflect the number of people who develop the disease.If you or someone you love developed mesothelioma as a result of asbestos exposure, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your losses and suffering. Please contact us today to learn more about your legal rights and options.Age, Sex and MesotheliomaMesothelioma statistics show that the disease affects men more commonly than women, probably because men are more likely to be exposed to asbestos in the workplace. Mesothelioma is also more common among people between the ages of 50 and 70, which is likely due to the disease’s long latency period. However, an increase in the number of cases reported in people between the ages of 30 and 40 seems to indicate a rise in secondary exposure. Mesothelioma Statistics by Industry and OccupationMany industries put their workers at a high risk for exposure to asbestos and consequently for the development of mesothelioma. Over 1.3 million people in the construction industry are exposed to asbestos annually. People in the following industries also face an increased risk of asbestos exposure: · Railroad· Manufacturing · Automobile-related· ShipyardTeaching and farming – seemingly innocuous occupations – tend to have high mesothelioma rates as well.Mesothelioma Statistics: Prognosis and Life ExpectancyThe average life expectancy of a person with mesothelioma at the time of diagnosis is one year. If cancer is found early and aggressively treated, a patient may be able to live between two and five years from the time of diagnosis. According to mesothelioma statistics, between 43,000 and 230,000 people nationwide have died from asbestos-related cancer. There is no cure for mesothelioma. A person with mesothelioma can expect to pay between $400,000 and $800,000 for oxygen, medication, and other treatment.If you have mesothelioma, please contact us today for a FREE consultation with an experienced mesothelioma attorney who can examine your case thoroughly and help you plan the best course of action. You may be eligible to recover compensation for your losses and treatment costs.See our pages on mesothelioma deaths recorded by industry, and mesothelioma deaths recorded by occupation for more mesothelioma statistics.
Related Mesothelioma Statistic News
April 30, 2007 - Asbestos Exposure Responsible for 90,000 Deaths Annually
March 12, 2007 - Study: Men More Susceptible to Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma Deaths by Occupation

Even today, years after the link between asbestos and mesothelioma has been firmly established, many jobs require workers to work with or near asbestos. While some employers may be unaware of asbestos in the workplace, this is not true of all employers. In cases where the presence of asbestos is known, employers are required to protect and/or warn their employees. Failure to do so is often a result of unscrupulous business practices. Unfortunately, hundreds of people die every year from mesothelioma developed as a result of asbestos exposure at work. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you need to ensure that your legal rights are protected. Please click here to learn more about recovering your losses through a mesothelioma lawsuit. Hazardous OccupationsThe Center for Health Statistics has compiled a list of some of the most common occupations of people who have died of mesothelioma. The percentage indicates the portion of total mesothelioma deaths per occupation in 1999:· Managers and administrators – 7.6· Housewife/Homemaker – 6.8· Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters – 3.3· Janitors and cleaners – 3.1· Supervisors and proprietors, sales occupations – 3.0· Carpenters – 3.0· Elementary school teachers – 2.4· Farmers (non-horticulture) – 2.2· Electricians – 2.2· Supervisors, production occupations 2.2· Truck drivers – 2.2· Occupations not reported – 5.2· All other occupations – 56.8Some of these occupations, such as elementary school teachers, have high mesothelioma death rates not because they work with asbestos directly, but because they spend a lot of time in old buildings that may contain deteriorating asbestos.Homemakers are more likely to contract asbestos through non-occupational asbestos exposure. Numerous reports have been made of women who have died after years of washing the clothes of their husbands or other family members exposed to asbestos in the workplace. The theory is that asbestos fibers are brought home on a person’s clothes, skin and hair, causing others to be exposed to the dangerous substance.Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with or died from mesothelioma, you may be eligible to recover compensation for your pain, suffering, medical expenses and more. Please contact us today for a FREE consultation with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options.
Related News
May 23, 2008 - $7M Awarded in Asbestos Case
April 20, 2007 - Louisiana Man Wins $3.2M in Mesothelioma Lawsuit
April 5, 2007 - Boilermaker File Asbestos Suit

Mesothelioma Deaths By Industry

The leading cause of mesothelioma is workplace exposure to asbestos. Certain industries still manufacture products that contain asbestos, or rely on equipment or facilities that contain it. Below is a list of industries with the largest number of employee deaths due to mesothelioma in 1999 according to the National Center for Health Statistics. Also included is the percentage of the total number of mesothelioma deaths accounted for by each industry.
Construction – 14.2
Non-paid workers, workers at home – 7.0
Elementary and secondary school teachers – 3.7
Industrial and miscellaneous chemicals – 3.5
General government work – 2.4
Agriculture – 1.9
Nonspecific manufacturing 1.9
Electric light and power – 1.9
Railroads – 1.7
Hospitals – 1.7
Unreported industries – 4.3
All other industries combined – 56
Mesothelioma Statistics: What You Should KnowThese statistics denote the percentage of all mesothelioma deaths and speak nothing of mesothelioma death rates within each industry. The gap in mesothelioma death percentages between industries – between the incidence in the construction and railroad industries for example – may not be as large as the numbers seem to suggest because the number of people working in construction is much larger than the number of people working on railroads. All of these occupations carry a high risk of mesothelioma.The 56 percent of those who worked in “all other industries combined” shows that while there are very high-risk industries, such as construction, the majority of people who die from mesothelioma either work in smaller industries or industries not traditionally associated with asbestos exposure.The high incidence of mesothelioma deaths in people who do not work with asbestos directly, such as schoolteachers and hospital workers, can likely be attributed to their working in close proximity to decaying asbestos in old buildings. The number of mesothelioma deaths in home workers and homemakers is most likely due to non-occupational exposure.Diagnosed with Mesothelioma? If you or a loved one has mesothelioma, or if you have lost someone to the disease, you may be eligible to recover compensation for your pain, suffering, medical expenses and more. Please contact us today for a FREE consultation with an experienced mesothelioma attorney who can answer your questions and help you plan the best course of action.
Related News
May 7, 2007 - West Virginia Woman Seeks Damages for Husband’s Death

Mesothelioma Treatment

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer in which malignant cells attack the mesothelium, or protective lining that surrounds many internal organs . Since the cancer is often discovered late, many mesothelioma treatments focus on improving the patients' quality of life. Those mesothelioma treatments that attempt to slow or remove the cancer growth are often aggressive in nature.
The following factors will help the doctor to determine the best course of mesothelioma treatment:
Stage and location of the cancer
Age of the patient
Patient's overall health
Potential risks and benefits of the mesothelioma treatment
Traditional Mesothelioma Treatments
Listed below are some of the more traditional mesothelioma treatments:
Surgery - a pneumonectomy or pleurectomy may be performed to remove diseased tissues
Radiation - may be performed in lieu of or alongside surgery to kill off cancerous or abnormal cells in a specific target area
Chemotherapy - a more aggressive form of treatment used to kill cancerous cells throughout the body
Palliative treatments - may be used to alleviate pain by draining excess fluid from the affected areas, or by various other methods
New and Alternative Mesothelioma Treatments
The National Cancer Institute continues to sponsor clinical trials that are designed to find new mesothelioma treatments and enhance existing ones. Many new and alternative mesothelioma treatments work in conjunction with traditional treatments. Included below are a variety of some new and alternative mesothelioma treatment options:
Immunotherapy
Photodynamic therapy
Intensity Modulated Radiation therapy
Gene therapy
New chemotherapy agents
Alternative therapies including acupuncture, homeopathy, herbs, massage, etc.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a serious type of cancer that attacks the membrane surrounding various organs. Symptoms of mesothelioma may take anywhere between 20 to 40 years or more to manifest themselves. And because early mesothelioma symptoms tend to be general, they often go ignored or else confused for symptoms of less serious ailments. Generally, however, individuals begin to manifest mesothelioma symptoms two to three months prior to being diagnosed .
There are three types of mesothelioma – pleural, peritoneal, and pericardial – and symptoms tend to vary according to type.
Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms
Pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the chest. Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma may include:
Shortness of breath
Difficulty swallowing
Coughing
Sweating
Fever
Weight loss
Fatigue
Swelling in the upper body, especially the face and arms
Lower back pain
Pain in the side of the chest
Muscle weakness
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma that affects the lining of the abdominal cavity is called peritoneal mesothelioma. Symptoms of this type of mesothelioma include:
Stomach pain
Weight loss
Nausea
Vomiting
Swollen belly
Bowel obstruction
Anemia
Fever
Blood clotting abnormalities
Pericardial Mesothelioma Symptoms
The pericardium is the lining that surrounds the heart. Mesothelioma affecting this area of the body is known as pericardial mesothelioma and symptoms include:
Heart palpitations
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Persistent coughing

Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Mesothelioma is not always diagnosed because the cancer is still unrecognizable. A mesothelioma diagnosis may often be classified as another condition because the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses. Even today, a mesothelioma diagnosis can be classified as lung cancer, which is an entirely different disease. Mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the chest, lung, and abdominal cavity and has been linked to high levels of workplace and non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
A mesothelioma diagnosis most commonly begins with a complete medical history review and physical examination of a patient who suffers from mesothelioma symptoms and signs including shortness of breath, chest pains, swollen abdomen, and more. The physical exam should involve a number of imaging tests to search for suspicious cell formation. These tests may include:
X-rays Chest or abdomen x-rays can reveal fluid build-up, masses, or signs of non-cancerous pleural disease .
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan A series of detailed images of the body. CT scans can locate pleural disease, chest wall invasions, and can guide fine needle aspiration tests. However, CT scans cannot differentiate between benign or malignant mesothelioma.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) MRI scans use a computer-linked magnet to photograph details of the inside of the body and can determine the severity of a tumor.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) PET imaging tests have become one of the most efficient ways of diagnosing mesothelioma tumors as well as determining the staging of the cancer.
Biopsy A needle biopsy is almost always necessary to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis. In a biopsy, a sample of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to test for cancer cells. Depending on the location of the abnormal area, a biopsy can be done in different ways including:
Thoracoscopy - If the cancer is located in the pleura, a small incision will be made through the chest wall and a thoracoscope will be inserted to obtain a tissue sample.
Peritoneoscopy If the cancer is in the abdominal cavity, a doctor will use a peritoneoscope to obtain sample tissue for further examination.
If you or a loved one experience any symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.
Please contact us today to learn more information about mesothelioma diagnosis or to speak with a qualified and experienced mesothelioma attorney who will protect your legal rights and interests.

Mesothelioma Lawsuit

A mesothelioma lawsuit is filed by a victim of mesothelioma in order to recover damages associated with their development of this asbestos related cancer. A mesothelioma case can help a victim seek reparations for medical expenses, lost income and pain and suffering. Mesothelioma develops almost exclusively as a result of toxic exposure to asbestos. This disease can remain latent in a victim for up to forty years; therefore people who were exposed to asbestos in the environment in the 1950s may still be at risk for developing this disease.
Who Is At Risk?
Asbestos has been used to make more than 5000 products in the last few hundred years. Asbestos is a naturally occurring group of minerals that is used to make products such as vehicle brakes and building materials. Asbestos is added to these products because it aids in heat and corrosion resistance. The deadly effects of asbestos have been known for over sixty years, though it continues to be used in a variety of industries. People in the construction, automotive, factory, railroad, shipyard, and custodial industries may all be at risk for the serious health consequences resulting from toxic exposure to asbestos.
What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare but fatal cancer that is caused by this harmful exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma affects the mesothelium that surrounds and protects the internal organs of the body and can affect any organ in the body including the brain, heart and reproductive organs. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common and affects the lining surrounding the lungs. This lining can become cancerous when asbestos is inhaled at toxic levels. Many times the disease is asymptomatic, though symptoms may include a persistent cough, pain in the chest area or shortness of breath.
Mesothelioma also affects the peritoneal lining of the organs in the abdominal cavity. This type of mesothelioma can also remain latent and asymptomatic for several years. If symptoms do develop they might include pain and swelling of the belly, nausea, bowel problems, weight loss, swollen feet, and anemia.
More Common in Men
Mesothelioma affects men three to five times more often than it affects women. It is diagnosed in patients at an average age of 50 to 70 years. Once diagnosed, mesothelioma is fatal. The average survival time after diagnosis is only one year, because the cancer is usually in its advanced stages by the time it is discovered. For people who are diagnosed earlier, about one half survive for two years and twenty percent make it to five years.
Why File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
A mesothelioma lawsuit can be filed in the legal system in order to seek reparations for medical expenses, loss of income and pain and suffering associated with the development of this disease. Employers and manufactures of asbestos containing products can be held liable for the injuries that develop as a result, especially when they were aware of the risks associated with the level of exposure they caused or permitted. Contacting a qualified lawyer is often the first step in discovering what your legal rights and options might be in a mesothelioma lawsuit. For more information on a mesothelioma lawsuit, please Contact a Mesothelioma Attorney who is familiar with other mesothelioma cases.
Related Mesothelioma Lawsuit News
Sept 4, 2008 - IL Woman Sues After Losing Husband to Mesothelioma
Aug 28, 2008 - Missouri Couple Claims Illness Caused by Asbestos
Aug 20, 2008 - $1.2M Settlement Reached in Eerie County Settlement

Mesothelioma Attorney

The mission of a mesothelioma attorney is to help obtain compensation for individuals with this life-threatening cancer. The vast majority of cases of mesothelioma are due to exposure to the carcinogenic mineral asbestos, which was used in thousands of products dating from the 1880s through 1989. Every mesothelioma attorney knows of the devastation that this cancer wreaks on patients and their families.
To discuss your case with an experienced mesothelioma attorney, click here.
Asbestos Exposure Is the Culprit
It’s estimated that since the early 1940s, at least three million Americans received high-level exposure to asbestos, often at their workplaces. Others have been exposed to asbestos at home, whether by washing asbestos dust-laden clothing or from the many building materials that contain asbestos. Still others grew up attending schools where asbestos was used in walls, ceilings, flooring, even bricks.
The asbestos industry was aware for over 60 years that their product caused mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis, but the management of the asbestos companies routinely kept that information from their employees, choosing to maximize company profits and savings at the expense of the employees.
Compensation from Defendant Companies
The medical bills alone for mesothelioma often run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Years of lost income or reduced earning capacity further add to the losses. When a loved one with mesothelioma passes away, the loss of support and companionship and the emotional pain and suffering can all be overwhelming. A mesothelioma attorney understands these losses, having helped other victims and their families obtain compensation for their damages.
In fact, mesothelioma attorneys have helped asbestos victims across the country receive millions of dollars worth of compensation for:
Medical treatments including surgery and chemotherapy
Hospice and/or palliative care
Funeral/burial expenses
Pain and suffering
Loss of companionship
More
If you are one of the thousands of patients who have not received fair compensation for your losses, a mesothelioma attorney can help you.

Mesothelioma Lawyer

Every year, thousands of individuals are diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma - a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the heart, lungs, and abdominal cavity and is primarily attributable to asbestos exposure . Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was commonly used prior to the 1970s in building materials and a number of consumer products. Health and government officials now deem asbestos a carcinogen and strictly regulate its use.
Unfortunately, symptoms of mesothelioma often take decades to appear. And the prognosis for individuals with mesothelioma tends to be poor since the cancer has already progressed to advanced stages by the time they are diagnosed.
People who have developed mesothelioma as a result of asbestos-exposure may be eligible to seek compensation for their losses through a mesothelioma lawsuit . If you or a loved one suffers from mesothelioma because of asbestos exposure, a qualified mesothelioma lawyer can help you understand and maximize your legal rights.
Why Contact A Mesothelioma Lawyer?
A qualified mesothelioma lawyer can evaluate your claim and provide you with competent legal counsel. You may be entitled to seek financial assistance to compensate your damages, in which case a mesothelioma lawyer can litigate your case.
Over the years, mesothelioma lawyers have helped their clients recover millions of dollars in compensation for losses suffered. With the help of a mesothelioma lawyer, you may be able to recover both economic and non-economic damages including: lost wages and earning capacity, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and more.
If you or someone you love has developed mesothelioma as a result of asbestos-exposure, you do not have to suffer in vain. Our mesothelioma attorneys have a wealth of experience litigating asbestos-related cases and can help you bring responsible parties to justice. Also, our mesothelioma lawyers work on a "contingency fee" basis, which means that they work for free unless your case is successfully resolved.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a relatively rare form of malignant mesothelioma, making up slightly less than 30% of diagnosed mesothelioma cases. This type of mesothelioma affects the cells of the abdominal lining, also known as the peritoneum, which supports and protects organs in the abdomen.
The peritoneum is made up of two layers, called the visceral and parietal layers. The parietal layer is an outer layer that covers the abdominal cavity, while the visceral layer covers internal organs and the intestinal tract.
Asbestos and Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Exposure to asbestos may cause peritoneal mesothelioma in one of two ways. One theory suggests that asbestos fibers are ingested and eventually work their way into the peritoneum, while another suggests that asbestos fibers that are inhaled are transported to the peritoneum via the lymphatic system.
Once in the peritoneum, asbestos fibers cause changes in peritoneal cells that cause them to divide without restraint, causing the peritoneal layers to thicken. The growth of cancer cells puts pressure on internal organs, and this pressure is increased by fluid that builds up in the area as a result of cancer growth.
Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a very late onset form of cancer. After initial asbestos exposure has occurred, it is common for two or three decades to elapse before symptoms begin to appear. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include the following:
Weight loss
Fever or night sweats
Pain or swelling in the abdominal area
Obstruction of the small or large intestine
Anemia
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Diagnosis of peritoneal mesothelioma is based on these and other symptoms, as well as the results of diagnostic procedures such as x-rays, CT scans and MRI scans. These are used not only to diagnose the disease itself, but also to discover how far it has advanced. This information will help to determine the best course of treatment.Often a biopsy is also required to confirm a diagnosis of peritoneal mesothelioma. This may take the form of a needle biopsy or tissue biopsy, although in some cases both may be required. A needle biopsy involves using a long needle to remove fluid from the abdominal cavity, while a tissue biopsy requires minor surgery to remove tissue from the area. The fluid or tissue is then tested to determine whether malignant mesothelial cells are present.
Treatment for Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are non-specific in that they are often associated with other less serious conditions. Diagnosis is therefore often made too late for curative treatment to be an effective option.
For most patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, treatment is palliative, and is designed reduce the rate at which the cancer spreads, and to provide relief from the symptoms of the disease. Treatment typically involves a combination of surgery and chemotherapy, as either treatment alone is much less effective as when they are used in conjunction with each other.
Surgery is not always a practical option for individuals with peritoneal mesothelioma. Surgical procedures involve the removal of diseased sections of the peritoneum, and are often followed up with intravenous or intraperitoneal chemotherapy (where drugs delivered through a vein or directly to the peritoneal cavity) to remove residual cancer cells that were not able to be removed during surgery.
In cases where surgery and chemotherapy are not suitable treatment options, palliative treatment is used to provide symptomatic relief; however, such treatments cannot slow the progression of the cancer. These types of treatments are used simply to manage pain and provide relief from symptoms such as the build up of fluid in the peritoneal cavity.

Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial mesothelioma is the least common form of a mesothelioma. Only around 5% of mesothelioma cases are pericardial. This type of mesothelioma affects the pericardium, which is a membranous lining that surrounds the heart, providing both support and protection to the organ.
Asbestos and Pericardial Mesothelioma
It is well known that asbestos fibers inhaled into the lung are the cause of pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs. However, the means by which asbestos causes pericardial mesothelioma is not well understood, although it is believed that asbestos fibers may travel from the lungs to the heart via the bloodstream.
Once asbestos fibers are lodged in the membranes surrounding the heart, they cannot be eliminated by the body. These fibers then begin to cause changes in the pericardial membrane. While the exact nature of these changes is not completely understood, it is known that these changes eventually lead to uncontrolled growth of cells in the pericardial layers, causing malignant mesothelioma tumors to form. As malignant cells grow in the pericardium, the membranes thicken and become filled with fluid, putting pressure on the heart and causing a variety of symptoms.
Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma
The rarity of pericardial mesothelioma has made it difficult for specialists to determine a specific set of common symptoms. The following symptoms often indicate a cardiac condition, but further tests are required to confirm a diagnosis of pericardial mesothelioma.
Chest pain
Irregular heartbeat
Heart palpitations
Shortness of breath
Pericardial Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Diagnosis of pericardial mesothelioma is problematic, as the nature of these symptoms is relatively non-specific, in that they can appear as a result of several other cardiac conditions. Diagnosis will involve reviewing an individual’s medical history as well as assessing their current medical condition.
Chest x-rays, a CT scan or an MRI scan may all be used to diagnose pericardial mesothelioma. However, to confirm the diagnosis and to determine whether the point of original of the cancer is the pericardium or another area, a biopsy must be performed. This involves removal of fluid or tissue from the pericardial area, and testing of this tissue or fluid for the presence of malignant mesothelioma cells.
Treatment of Pericardial Mesothelioma
Unfortunately for most people who are diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma, by the time symptoms of the disease appear, the cancer has progressed to a stage where conventional treatments are largely ineffective for anything other than providing temporary relief of symptoms. The difficulty of diagnosing pericardial mesothelioma at an early stage means that the long-term prognosis for most people with the disease is very poor. The average patient survives just six months post-diagnosis.
In rare cases, the disease may be diagnosed early enough that surgical procedures may provide some benefit. If pericardial tumors are small and have not spread to the lungs, chest wall or lymph nodes, radical surgery may successfully remove most cancerous tissue; however, such surgery is very risky due to the proximity of the heart.
For most people with pericardial mesothelioma, palliative treatment is the only option. This may include a procedure called fine needle aspiration, which removes excess fluid from the pericardium to relive pressure on the heart. Radiation therapy may be used to kill cancer cells and reduce the size of tumors, but this procedure is dangerous, as the heart and lungs themselves may be damaged. Currently there are no chemotherapeutic options for this type of mesothelioma.

Malignant Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the lining of the lung, chest cavity, or abdominal cavity. If a tumor formed in the mesothelium—special cells that protect the organs—are cancerous, the disease is called malignant mesothelioma. Malignant mesothelioma is almost always caused by workplace or non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
Who is at risk for malignant mesothelioma?
The most common cause of malignant mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Workers in the steel, mining, plumbing, milling, insulation, and electric industries, among hundreds of others who handle or manufacture asbestos products, are at the highest risk of developing malignant mesothelioma.
While the risks of the disease increase depending on the frequency and intensity of asbestos exposure, there have been a number of malignant mesothelioma cases among people who have had only one or two months of exposure.
Asbestos fibers are sharp and easily cling to various surfaces such as hair, skin, clothes, and shoes of workers who may track the toxic fibers into their homes subjecting innocent family members to serious illnesses and disease. Family members of those who are regularly exposed to high levels of asbestos also have a high risk of developing malignant mesothelioma.
Types of malignant mesothelioma
There are two primary types of malignant mesothelioma:
Pleural mesothelioma, the most common form of the cancer, grows in the lining covering the lungs.
Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the tissue lining the abdominal cavity.
Mesothelioma is also broken down into cell types, which depend on what the cells look like under a microscope. The cell types include epithelial (50 to 70 percent are diagnosed with this type), sarcomatoid (seven to 20 percent have this type), or mixed (20 to 35 percent have both epithelial and sarcomatoid cells).
Symptoms of malignant mesothelioma
Malignant mesothelioma has an extremely long latency period that can take anywhere between 20 to 50 years from the initial exposure to the diagnosis of the disease. Some common symptoms of malignant mesothelioma include:
chest pains
cough
shortness of breath
severe weight loss
If the disease is discovered early, surgery may be able to remove most of the cancerous tissue. However, malignant mesothelioma spreads rapidly and can affect other organs. During advanced stages of the cancer, chemotherapy treatment and radiation can help to minimize symptoms. Complete recovery may not be possible.

Lung Cancer - Mesothelioma

Lung cancer is the leading cause of death in asbestos-related injuries and illnesses. Asbestos is a highly toxic group of fibrous minerals that was widely used in the production of buildings, homes, schools, automobile brakes and clutch parts, ceiling and floor tiles, cement, and thousands of other products around the world.
If asbestos fibers are compromised by renovation, remodeling, deterioration, or disturbance, the fibers may break loose and become airborne. Once these fibers are inhaled or ingested, they may become trapped in the lungs or the digestive tract permanently, causing serious illness or disease such as lung cancer.
Lung cancer risk factors
While smoking is the highest risk factor for lung cancer, frequent workplace or non-occupational exposure to high levels of asbestos is another leading cause of the disease. Tradesmen in the steel, plumbing, electrical, auto, milling, mining, and insulation industries, among others, are at the highest risk of developing lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Studies have found that workers who are regularly exposed to asbestos increase their risk of lung cancer by seven to ten times than those in the general population. In addition, asbestos workers who also smoke cigarettes are 50 to 100 times more likely to die from lung cancer.
Symptoms of lung cancer
Lung cancer is difficult to diagnose early, spreads at a rapid rate, and is rarely cured. Lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure typically occurs at a younger age than other lung cancers and is most likely found in the lower lobes. Some common symptoms of lung cancer include, but are not limited to:
Change in breathing patterns
Shortness of breath
Persistent chest pains
Coughing
Hoarseness
Anemia
What are my legal rights?
If you or a loved one developed lung cancer that you believe was caused by exposure to asbestos, you have the legal right to pursue an asbestos claim to seek compensation for your damages. A qualified asbestos lawyer can evaluate your case to determine the best course of action for you.

Epithelial Malignant Mesothelioma

Epithelial malignant mesothelioma is the most common form of mesothelioma that develops as a result of asbestos exposure. Epithelial malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that effects the epithelial or tissue membranes that line the organs. Fifty to seventy percent of malignant mesothelioma is considered epithelial malignant mesothelioma. Epithelial malignant mesothelioma victims often have a better prognosis (chance at increased survival time) than do victims of other mesothelioma types.
The second most common mesothelioma accounts for seven to twenty percent of cancer cases. Sarcomatoid malignant mesothelioma involves malignant tumors that develop from affected connective tissues. The third type which occurs twenty to thirty percent of the time is a combination of sarcomatoid and epithelial malignant mesothelioma. Treatment options in each of these cases are about the same.
Where is Epithelial Mesothelioma Found?
Epithelial malignant mesothelioma can affect different areas of the body. Mesothelioma is cancer to any of the tissues that surround internal organs. Sixty percent of epithelial malignant mesothelioma occurs in the pleural tissues of the lungs. This develops almost exclusively as a result of asbestos inhalation. The symptoms of epithelial malignant mesothelioma that affect the lungs include:
Shortness of breath
Persistent cough
Pain in the chest
Viral pneumonia symptoms
Many patients are asymptomatic. The right lung is affected sixty percent of the time, the left lung thirty five percent, and both lungs are affected in five percent of epithelial malignant mesothelioma cases.
Epithelial malignant mesothelioma is also common in the peritoneum of the abdomen. This is caused by the ingestion of asbestos that enters the air. Patients with this type of mesothelioma may also remain asymptomatic for years and years, though the following symptoms may be present: weight loss, nausea, effusion (fluid build-up) in the stomach, bowel difficulties, foot swelling and anemia. Malignant mesothelioma can also affect the reproductive organs, the heart, and other major organs.
A person who has been exposed to asbestos for one or two months has the potential to develop epithelial malignant mesothelioma or other asbestos related illnesses up to fifty years later. Mesothelioma has a long latency period. Once diagnosed the prognosis is often bleak. The average patient has a year left to live after they discover their condition.

Cystic Mesothelioma

Cystic mesothelioma is a type of peritoneal mesothelioma that affects mainly young females. When cystic mesothelioma occurs, cysts are lined with a layer of benign mesothelial cells. Since cystic mesothelioma is a benign form of mesothelioma, normal life expectancy occurs. In some instances, though, cystic mesothelioma will require some treatment depending on the pain or symptoms experienced.
Cystic mesothelioma is rare and tough to diagnose due to the complicated procedures that must be performed prior to confirming if cystic mesothelioma is present. Electron microscopy and immunohistochemical studies must first occur before cystic mesothelioma is found. Partial excision or decompression can be used to relieve any pain or symptomatic problems associated to cystic mesothelioma.

Chrysotile Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Chrysotile peritoneal mesothelioma is an asbestos-related cancer that attacks the lining of the abdominal cavity. Chrysotile causes peritoneal mesothelioma when the small fibers are inhaled or swallowed and become lodged in the tissue. Chrysotile linked peritoneal mesothelioma has a long latency period, often diagnosed more than 40 years after exposure.
Victims of chrysotile peritoneal mesothelioma suffer from pain in the abdomen, caused by pressure on internal organs. Symptoms of chrysotile peritoneal mesothelioma also include nausea, vomiting, bowel blockage, and swelling of the abdomen. When a diagnosis of chrysotile peritoneal mesothelioma has been made, the patient is often already in very advanced stages of the disease, and most chrysotile peritoneal mesothelioma victims live less than a year after onset of the symptoms. Because the disease involves high concentrations of asbestos, chrysotile peritoneal mesothelioma usually occurs in persons who were exposed to chrysotile through their occupation. Many of the individuals diagnosed with chrysotile peritoneal mesothelioma worked on shipyards or in other areas where asbestos was used for fireproofing or insulation. Individuals may also contract chrysotile peritoneal mesothelioma through prolonged exposure to asbestos in their homes, schools, or places of employment.
If you or a loved one is suffering from chrysotile peritoneal mesothelioma, you may be entitled to financial reparations. Victims of chrysotile peritoneal mesothelioma who were exposed to chrysotile asbestos through their occupation or environment may be able to recover funds for medical care, lost wages, and damages. An attorney familiar with chrysotile peritoneal mesothelioma may be able to help you understand your rights.

Asbestos Cancer

Asbestos cancers are the result of high exposure to the fibers of the mineral asbestos, which an individual may inhale without even being aware of doing. Asbestos is a mineral that was used in thousands of products that surround us — bricks, insulation, plumbing, furnaces, floors, walls, and ceilings. Although many uses of asbestos have been banned, the number of asbestos cancers diagnosed in the U.S. continues to rise.
Asbestos Cancers May Take Decades to Develop
Asbestos cancers can develop relatively soon after exposure to asbestos, or they may take decades to manifest themselves. This is because when the microscopic fibers of asbestos are inhaled, they become lodged in the lungs and/or other internal organs, initiating a cancer process that may take months, years, or decades to develop. Every individual asbestos cancer case is unique.
There are a number of different asbestos cancers:
Small cell lung cancer
Non-small cell lung
Mesothelioma
In addition, a link between asbestos and some cases of colorectal and gastrointestinal cancers has been suggested by several clinical studies. Asbestos exposure has also been linked to an elevated risk for gallbladder, throat, kidney and esophageal cancers. Together, these asbestos cancers have affected hundreds of thousands of Americans and their families.
Who Is At Risk for Asbestos Cancers?
Millions of people in the U.S. received significant asbestos exposure in the years since the early 1940s, often on their jobs or because their spouses worked in an asbestos-laden environment. Thousands of members of the military, for example, worked with asbestos products as part of the shipbuilding process, or because they built structures that had asbestos-containing materials. Asbestos cancers are especially common in the following professions, although there are many other lines of work in which asbestos can be present:
Submarine personnel
Asbestos removal workers
Shipyard workers
Demolition workers
Drywall installers and removers
Firefighters
Automobile industry workers
Automobile mechanics

Benign Multicystic Mesothelioma

Benign multicystic mesothelioma is a rare form of mesothelioma that is not considered cancerous. Benign multicystic mesothelioma affects the peritoneum of the abdomen. The peritoneum is the protective tissue that surrounds the organs in the abdominal cavity and helps facilitate smooth movement between the liver, spleen, bowel, and other organs. It may be difficult to diagnose benign multicystic mesothelioma because it may be asymptomatic, however pain in the stomach, weight loss, nausea, and difficulty with bowel movements may indicate peritoneal mesothelioma.
Benign multicystic mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the lungs known as the pleura. This nonmalignant type of mesothelioma usually involves many localized benign (non-cancerous) tumors on the lining of the lungs. If the tumors grow too large, they may compress the lungs causing difficulty with breathing and shortness of breath. Symptoms of benign multicystic mesothelioma may not be easily discernable, but may include chronic cough or chest pain. In more serious cases, complications may involve fluid escaping into the pleural membranes surrounding the lungs.
A physical examination can help diagnose benign multicystic mesothelioma. Chest x-rays, CT scans of the chest or stomach area, and lung or abdomen biopsies may help determine whether or not an individual has benign multicystic mesothelioma. Once diagnosed, the prognosis for benign multicystic mesothelioma is remarkably better than any other type of mesothelioma. The expected outcome for people with benign multicystic mesothelioma is good with prompt treatment whereas patients with malignant mesothelioma have an average of one year left to live following diagnosis.
Treatment for benign multicystic mesothelioma might include surgery, though it may not be possible to remove all the tumors. Treatment also depends on the severity of a given patient's benign multicystic mesothelioma and the immediacy of treatment.
All forms of mesothelioma develop almost exclusively as a consequence of asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma has a strikingly long latency period and the time between exposure and diagnoses can be as long as fifty years. Asbestos is a chemical found in over 5000 products all over the world. People who have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace in the last seventy years may still develop mesothelioma. Factory, railroad, automobile, construction, building and shipyard industry employees may all be at risk for developing some form of mesothelioma, including benign multicystic mesothelioma.
If you have been exposed to asbestos and experience any of the aforementioned symptoms of benign multicystic mesothelioma, you may want to seek medical attention to find out if you have mesothelioma. If you have benign multicystic mesothelioma you may be eligible to recover what you have lost as a result.

Abdominal Mesothelioma

Abdominal mesothelioma, also known as peritoneal mesothelioma, is one form of a rare asbestos-linked cancer, mesothelioma. The abdominal mesothelioma, as the name suggests, is a cancer of the tissues in the abdominal cavity. Abdominal mesothelioma generally affects men ages 50-70, although women make up about one-fifth of all abdominal mesothelioma cases.
Symptoms of Abdominal Mesothelioma
Symptoms of abdominal mesothelioma include:
Abdominal pains
Abdominal weakness
Weight loss
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Abdominal swelling
Patients exhibiting these symptoms are usually scheduled for further examinations to search for other abdominal mesothelioma signs. If an X-ray or CT scan indicates signs that the patient indeed may have abdominal mesothelioma, a biopsy is conducted, allowing the physician to determine the malignancy level. Any abdominal mesothelioma treatment will be determined by the physician and patient, taking into account factors such as:
the stage of the abdominal mesothelioma
the location and sizes of any tumors
the age and health of the patient
Abdominal mesothelioma has a very high mortality rate, and in many cases, diagnosis occurs when the abdominal mesothelioma has already progressed too far. In such cases, all actions focus on making the abdominal mesothelioma as comfortable as possible, often removing portions of the tumor to relieve pressure.

Epithelial Malignant Mesothelioma

Epithelial malignant mesothelioma is the most common form of mesothelioma that develops as a result of asbestos exposure. Epithelial malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that effects the epithelial or tissue membranes that line the organs. Fifty to seventy percent of malignant mesothelioma is considered epithelial malignant mesothelioma. Epithelial malignant mesothelioma victims often have a better prognosis (chance at increased survival time) than do victims of other mesothelioma types.
The second most common mesothelioma accounts for seven to twenty percent of cancer cases. Sarcomatoid malignant mesothelioma involves malignant tumors that develop from affected connective tissues. The third type which occurs twenty to thirty percent of the time is a combination of sarcomatoid and epithelial malignant mesothelioma. Treatment options in each of these cases are about the same.
Where is Epithelial Mesothelioma Found?
Epithelial malignant mesothelioma can affect different areas of the body. Mesothelioma is cancer to any of the tissues that surround internal organs. Sixty percent of epithelial malignant mesothelioma occurs in the pleural tissues of the lungs. This develops almost exclusively as a result of asbestos inhalation. The symptoms of epithelial malignant mesothelioma that affect the lungs include:
Shortness of breath
Persistent cough
Pain in the chest
Viral pneumonia symptoms
Many patients are asymptomatic. The right lung is affected sixty percent of the time, the left lung thirty five percent, and both lungs are affected in five percent of epithelial malignant mesothelioma cases.
Epithelial malignant mesothelioma is also common in the peritoneum of the abdomen. This is caused by the ingestion of asbestos that enters the air. Patients with this type of mesothelioma may also remain asymptomatic for years and years, though the following symptoms may be present: weight loss, nausea, effusion (fluid build-up) in the stomach, bowel difficulties, foot swelling and anemia. Malignant mesothelioma can also affect the reproductive organs, the heart, and other major organs.
A person who has been exposed to asbestos for one or two months has the potential to develop epithelial malignant mesothelioma or other asbestos related illnesses up to fifty years later. Mesothelioma has a long latency period. Once diagnosed the prognosis is often bleak. The average patient has a year left to live after they discover their condition.
Who Is At Risk of Epithelial Malignant Mesothelioma?
People who are at risk for developing epithelial malignant mesothelioma include employees who work with asbestos containing materials. Construction workers are particularly at risk, though professionals in the building, shipyard, railroad, and automobile industries as well as people with custodial duties may also be at risk. People who were exposed to asbestos as long ago at the 1940s may still be at risk for contracting this life threatening cancer.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a relatively rare form of malignant mesothelioma, making up slightly less than 30% of diagnosed mesothelioma cases. This type of mesothelioma affects the cells of the abdominal lining, also known as the peritoneum, which supports and protects organs in the abdomen.
The peritoneum is made up of two layers, called the visceral and parietal layers. The parietal layer is an outer layer that covers the abdominal cavity, while the visceral layer covers internal organs and the intestinal tract.
Asbestos and Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Exposure to asbestos may cause peritoneal mesothelioma in one of two ways. One theory suggests that asbestos fibers are ingested and eventually work their way into the peritoneum, while another suggests that asbestos fibers that are inhaled are transported to the peritoneum via the lymphatic system.
Once in the peritoneum, asbestos fibers cause changes in peritoneal cells that cause them to divide without restraint, causing the peritoneal layers to thicken. The growth of cancer cells puts pressure on internal organs, and this pressure is increased by fluid that builds up in the area as a result of cancer growth.
Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a very late onset form of cancer. After initial asbestos exposure has occurred, it is common for two or three decades to elapse before symptoms begin to appear. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include the following:
Weight loss
Fever or night sweats
Pain or swelling in the abdominal area
Obstruction of the small or large intestine
Anemia
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Diagnosis of peritoneal mesothelioma is based on these and other symptoms, as well as the results of diagnostic procedures such as x-rays, CT scans and MRI scans. These are used not only to diagnose the disease itself, but also to discover how far it has advanced. This information will help to determine the best course of treatment.Often a biopsy is also required to confirm a diagnosis of peritoneal mesothelioma. This may take the form of a needle biopsy or tissue biopsy, although in some cases both may be required. A needle biopsy involves using a long needle to remove fluid from the abdominal cavity, while a tissue biopsy requires minor surgery to remove tissue from the area. The fluid or tissue is then tested to determine whether malignant mesothelial cells are present.
Treatment for Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are non-specific in that they are often associated with other less serious conditions. Diagnosis is therefore often made too late for curative treatment to be an effective option.
For most patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, treatment is palliative, and is designed reduce the rate at which the cancer spreads, and to provide relief from the symptoms of the disease. Treatment typically involves a combination of surgery and chemotherapy, as either treatment alone is much less effective as when they are used in conjunction with each other.
Surgery is not always a practical option for individuals with peritoneal mesothelioma. Surgical procedures involve the removal of diseased sections of the peritoneum, and are often followed up with intravenous or intraperitoneal chemotherapy (where drugs delivered through a vein or directly to the peritoneal cavity) to remove residual cancer cells that were not able to be removed during surgery.
In cases where surgery and chemotherapy are not suitable treatment options, palliative treatment is used to provide symptomatic relief; however, such treatments cannot slow the progression of the cancer. These types of treatments are used simply to manage pain and provide relief from symptoms such as the build up of fluid in the peritoneal cavity.

Abdominal Mesothelioma

Abdominal mesothelioma, also known as peritoneal mesothelioma, is one form of a rare asbestos-linked cancer, mesothelioma. The abdominal mesothelioma, as the name suggests, is a cancer of the tissues in the abdominal cavity. Abdominal mesothelioma generally affects men ages 50-70, although women make up about one-fifth of all abdominal mesothelioma cases.
Symptoms of Abdominal Mesothelioma
Symptoms of abdominal mesothelioma include:
Abdominal pains
Abdominal weakness
Weight loss
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Abdominal swelling
Patients exhibiting these symptoms are usually scheduled for further examinations to search for other abdominal mesothelioma signs. If an X-ray or CT scan indicates signs that the patient indeed may have abdominal mesothelioma, a biopsy is conducted, allowing the physician to determine the malignancy level. Any abdominal mesothelioma treatment will be determined by the physician and patient, taking into account factors such as:
the stage of the abdominal mesothelioma
the location and sizes of any tumors
the age and health of the patient
Abdominal mesothelioma has a very high mortality rate, and in many cases, diagnosis occurs when the abdominal mesothelioma has already progressed too far. In such cases, all actions focus on making the abdominal mesothelioma as comfortable as possible, often removing portions of the tumor to relieve pressure.

Malignant Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the lining of the lung, chest cavity, or abdominal cavity. If a tumor formed in the mesothelium—special cells that protect the organs—are cancerous, the disease is called malignant mesothelioma. Malignant mesothelioma is almost always caused by workplace or non-occupational exposure to asbestos.
Who is at risk for malignant mesothelioma?
The most common cause of malignant mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Workers in the steel, mining, plumbing, milling, insulation, and electric industries, among hundreds of others who handle or manufacture asbestos products, are at the highest risk of developing malignant mesothelioma.
While the risks of the disease increase depending on the frequency and intensity of asbestos exposure, there have been a number of malignant mesothelioma cases among people who have had only one or two months of exposure.
Asbestos fibers are sharp and easily cling to various surfaces such as hair, skin, clothes, and shoes of workers who may track the toxic fibers into their homes subjecting innocent family members to serious illnesses and disease. Family members of those who are regularly exposed to high levels of asbestos also have a high risk of developing malignant mesothelioma.
Types of malignant mesothelioma
There are two primary types of malignant mesothelioma:
Pleural mesothelioma, the most common form of the cancer, grows in the lining covering the lungs.
Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the tissue lining the abdominal cavity.
Mesothelioma is also broken down into cell types, which depend on what the cells look like under a microscope. The cell types include epithelial (50 to 70 percent are diagnosed with this type), sarcomatoid (seven to 20 percent have this type), or mixed (20 to 35 percent have both epithelial and sarcomatoid cells).
Symptoms of malignant mesothelioma
Malignant mesothelioma has an extremely long latency period that can take anywhere between 20 to 50 years from the initial exposure to the diagnosis of the disease. Some common symptoms of malignant mesothelioma include:
chest pains
cough
shortness of breath
severe weight loss
If the disease is discovered early, surgery may be able to remove most of the cancerous tissue. However, malignant mesothelioma spreads rapidly and can affect other organs. During advanced stages of the cancer, chemotherapy treatment and radiation can help to minimize symptoms. Complete recovery may not be possible.

Lung Cancer - Mesothelioma

Lung cancer is the leading cause of death in asbestos-related injuries and illnesses. Asbestos is a highly toxic group of fibrous minerals that was widely used in the production of buildings, homes, schools, automobile brakes and clutch parts, ceiling and floor tiles, cement, and thousands of other products around the world.
If asbestos fibers are compromised by renovation, remodeling, deterioration, or disturbance, the fibers may break loose and become airborne. Once these fibers are inhaled or ingested, they may become trapped in the lungs or the digestive tract permanently, causing serious illness or disease such as lung cancer.
Lung cancer risk factors
While smoking is the highest risk factor for lung cancer, frequent workplace or non-occupational exposure to high levels of asbestos is another leading cause of the disease. Tradesmen in the steel, plumbing, electrical, auto, milling, mining, and insulation industries, among others, are at the highest risk of developing lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Studies have found that workers who are regularly exposed to asbestos increase their risk of lung cancer by seven to ten times than those in the general population. In addition, asbestos workers who also smoke cigarettes are 50 to 100 times more likely to die from lung cancer.
Symptoms of lung cancer
Lung cancer is difficult to diagnose early, spreads at a rapid rate, and is rarely cured. Lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure typically occurs at a younger age than other lung cancers and is most likely found in the lower lobes. Some common symptoms of lung cancer include, but are not limited to:
Change in breathing patterns
Shortness of breath
Persistent chest pains
Coughing
Hoarseness
Anemia
What are my legal rights?
If you or a loved one developed lung cancer that you believe was caused by exposure to asbestos, you have the legal right to pursue an asbestos claim to seek compensation for your damages. A qualified asbestos lawyer can evaluate your case to determine the best course of action for you.
Please contact us today to learn more information about asbestos lung cancer or to speak with an experienced and qualified asbestos attorney who will protect your legal rights and maximize your interests.
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June 18, 2007 - Minnesota Dept. of Health Withheld Mesothelioma Cases Info

Asbestos Lawyer

People who have suffered from malignant mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer that has been linked to asbestos exposure, have the legal right to file a lawsuit with the help of an experienced asbestos lawyer to seek compensation for their losses and suffering. Occupational or household exposure to asbestos, a group of fibrous minerals that were widely used in a number of industries, has been the cause of thousands of mesothelioma cases in the United States.
Who Is Likely To Be Exposed to Asbestos?
Former employees in the plumbing, steel, insulation, and electrical industries are the most likely to have inhaled the hazardous fibers while in the workplace, which may result in a mesothelioma diagnosis. In addition, these tradesmen may have tracked asbestos, which clings to clothing, shoes, skin, and hair, into the home. Family members of employees regularly exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
If you or a loved one has contracted mesothelioma or other serious illness you suspect is caused by exposure to asbestos, it is important to seek the early advice of a qualified and caring asbestos lawyer who can evaluate your case and inform you of your legal options. Please contact us today to speak with an experienced asbestos lawyer FREE of charge.
What Can an Asbestos Lawyer Do for Me?
The importance of a good asbestos lawyer can make a huge difference in your case. Many asbestos lawyers have a wealth of experience handling mesothelioma and asbestos litigation and are knowledgeable about the disease. A qualified asbestos lawyer can investigate your claim, gather evidence, build a strong case, and aggressively represent you in court.
When looking for a qualified asbestos lawyer, it is imperative that you choose an attorney who has a lot of experience handling asbestos cases, has a good track record, and can provide a specific strategy that would benefit your asbestos claim.
With the help of a competent asbestos lawyer, you can recover economic and non-economic damages for your pain and suffering including medical expenses, lost income capacity, loss of consortium, and more. Our asbestos lawyers work on a " contingency fee " basis, so it would cost you nothing to file an asbestos lawsuit unless your case is successfully resolved.

Asbestos Lawsuits

Asbestos lawsuits are filed by plaintiffs who have suffered as the result of asbestos-related illness. Plaintiffs in asbestos lawsuits can include the victims of asbestos exposure, or their families or loved ones. Defendants against asbestos lawsuits are those parties considered responsible for the asbestos exposure. In the past, targets of asbestos lawsuits have included:
Employers
Asbestos manufacturers
Asbestos installers
Landlords
Leasing agents
Financial Recovery
The purpose of asbestos lawsuits is to recover financial damages that result from asbestos related illness. Possible financial recoveries from asbestos lawsuits include:
cost of medical bills
lost wages
other associated costs
In some asbestos lawsuits, punitive damages (designed to punish the defendant) are also awarded. A few states permit asbestos lawsuits to be filed by people who reasonably expect to develop asbestos-related illnesses. These asbestos lawsuits regulations allow individuals exposed to asbestos to attempt to prepare financially for likely diseases. Many asbestos lawsuits have served to help publicize the adverse health effects of asbestos exposure; increasing numbers of asbestos lawsuits are decided for the plaintiffs as information about asbestos exposure becomes common knowledge.
Although asbestos lawsuits can be complicated at first glance, a number of individuals have benefited from asbestos lawsuits, including families of victims, left with enormous medical and funeral costs. For more about asbestos lawsuits and whether your situation is appropriate for this proceeding, an attorney familiar with asbestos lawsuits may be the appropriate person to consult.
How Can a Mesothelioma Attorney Help?
Mesothelioma attorneys can help victims in recovering funds related to asbestos-caused mesothelioma. Many of the mesothelioma attorneys with experience in this field have successfully claimed costs from those responsible for asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma attorneys can regain medical costs, lost wages, and punitive fees for victims and their families.
A mesothelioma attorney can meet with victims to discuss liability in mesothelioma cases; using their prior experience, mesothelioma attorneys can often predict the likelihood of success of a particular case. A good mesothelioma attorney will have the legal knowledge and connections to pressure reluctant parties into accepting accountability; many mesothelioma attorneys end up enabling their client to collect without ever having to go to trial. Mesothelioma attorneys can also help put their clients in touch with the clients of other mesothelioma attorneys if both parties agree, so that the parties represented by both mesothelioma attorneys may exchange information and supportespecially important with such a rare disease.

Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos exposure has been linked to a number of life-threatening diseases, including lung cancer and mesothelioma . Asbestos exposure is also known to cause a non-cancerous disease called asbestosis , which involves scarring of the lung tissue. Most asbestos exposure related illnesses stem from the inhalation of asbestos fibers. Individuals breathe in asbestos particles during asbestos exposure and the fibers become trapped in lung tissue.
Some asbestos-related illnesses do not manifest symptoms until many years later, even decades after initial asbestos exposure. However, some people develop serious ailments within a few months of asbestos exposure.
The length of asbestos exposure also correlates to the severity of the illness, with those patients who had long-term asbestos exposure usually experiencing more acute forms of the disease than individuals whose asbestos exposure lasted only a few months.
Why File an Asbestos Lawsuit?
In some cases, victims of diseases related to asbestos exposure are able to recover damages - including medical bills and lost wages - through an asbestos lawsuit . Asbestos exposure lawsuits attempt to recover funds from the parties responsible for causing or allowing the asbestos exposure to take place. Many states have ruled that individuals who have experienced asbestos exposure and reasonably expect to develop asbestos related illness should be able to seek compensation.

Asbestos Law Firm

In the mid-1960s, evidence began to surface linking asbestos - a fibrous mineral once widely used in various building materials and consumer products - to a number of serious diseases. Of the diseases asbestos exposure is known to cause, mesothelioma is perhaps the most dangerous. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that affects the linings of organs such as the heart, lungs, and abdominal cavity. Individuals with mesothelioma usually have a poor prognosis - most die within a year of diagnosis.
If you or a love one has developed mesothelioma or other asbestos-related condition, an asbestos law firm can help you ensure that your legal rights are protected and help you seek assistance for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and more.
Why Contact An Asbestos Law Firm?
There are many advantages to contacting an asbestos law firm. An asbestos law firm can evaluate your case and determine your eligibility to seek compensation through an asbestos lawsuit .
Over the years, asbestos law firms have helped many individuals and their families obtain compensation for their losses. An asbestos law firm may be able to help you and/or your family recover losses suffered as a result of asbestos exposure , including: lost wages and earning capacity, medical bills, pain and suffering, and more.
Attorneys with our asbestos law firm have a wealth of experience litigating asbestos cases. Our asbestos attorneys are experienced advocates dedicated to helping those who have suffered injury as a result of asbestos exposure.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a debilitating and sometimes deadly respiratory disorder caused by inhaling high levels of asbestos fibers , which leads to scarring of the lung tissue and diminished breathing capacity.
Asbestosis Risks
Asbestos fibers were commonly used in insulation and other building materials prior to 1975 when it was discovered to cause serious and potentially fatal diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer , and mesothelioma .
Individuals with prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers are among those most likely to develop asbestosis and/or other asbestos-related diseases. Also, those who work around asbestos fibers may carry the fibers home on their clothing, increasing the risk to their family members. Not all individuals with a history of asbestos exposure develop asbestosis. However, the key to diminishing the risk is to stop asbestos exposure altogether.
Asbestosis Symptoms
Common symptoms of asbestosis include:
Coughing
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Tightness in chest
Other less common symptoms may include nail abnormalities and clubbing of fingers.
Asbestosis Diagnosis and Treatment
The first step a doctor usually takes in diagnosing asbestosis is to listen for a crackling sound in the patient's chest. The doctor may then use a chest x-ray, CT scan of the lungs, or pulmonary function tests to definitively establish a diagnosis of asbestosis.
While no cure for asbestosis is currently available, a number of treatments can help to alleviate symptoms. Some of these supportive treatments include postural drainage, chest percussion, and vibration - all of which serve to remove secretions from the lungs.
To further aid respiration, doctors may prescribe aerosol medications that thin lung secretions or employ the use of oxygen masks.
The prognosis for individuals diagnosed with asbestosis depends on the duration and extent of their asbestos exposure as well as the progression of the disease. Some patients with asbestosis develop complications such as malignant mesothelioma and pleural effusion. Developing mesothelioma significantly decreases an individual's chances of survival. Seventy-five percent of those also diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma die within one year.