What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is cancer of the mesothelium, a membrane that covers most of the body's internal organs. The disease causes the cells of the mesothelium to divide without control, damaging nearby organs. These cells can also travel to other parts of the body. More often than not, mesothelioma develops in the peritoneum which is the tissue that covers most of the organs in the abdominal cavity. Mesothelioma is still considered a rare disease even though cases have been reported more frequently over the last 20 years. The disease is more common in men, as many men work in factories where they could have been exposed to asbestos. Asbestos is a commonly used group of minerals that can be found in roof shingles, brake lines, insulation, and other products. It's important to avoid inhaling the asbestos dust or particles at all costs. 70 to 80% of all mesothelioma cases are a result of asbestos being inhaled.

What are the Symptoms?

Symptoms of mesothelioma can appear after many years of exposure to asbestos. Some symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, abnormal blood clotting, bowel obstruction, and anemia. Since these symptoms can be a result of other health problems, it is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma. Given this fact, it is very important to get a diagnosis from a doctor. CAT scan, MRI, and x-rays of the chest and abdominal area can help identify mesothelioma, but ultimately a biopsy will be needed to confirm the disease.

Treatments for Mesothelioma

The most common treatment is surgery, but it depends upon the stage of the disease, age of the patient, and general health of the patient. The surgical procedure often involves removal of part of the chest or abdomen lining, and some of the tissue surrounding the lining. If a patient has been diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, a lung may have to be removed, along with part of the diaphragm which is the muscle below the lungs that helps with breathing. Radiation therapy is also a common treatment . Radiation therapy involves the use of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors that may have grown. Radiation therapy only treats the area where the radiation has been applied. Chemotherapy is another form of treatment in which anti cancer drugs are used to kill cancerous cells in the body. Most chemotherapy drugs are given intravenously. Removal of fluid from the chest and abdomen have also been used to treat mesothelioma.

Where to find Help

There are many doctors, lawyers and websites that can lead you in the right direction if you suspect you may have mesothelioma. Many law firms will take your case on a no win no fee basis. There are many resources on the web that can give you more in depth information about treatments, and can put you in touch with the right doctor or lawyer who can help.



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