Malignant Mesothelioma - Types, Causes, Stages and Treatment Options

Malignant mesothelioma is an uncommon form of cancerous tumors originating in the body tissue known as the mesothelium. The mesothelium is a specialized layer of cells that line and protect many internal organs such as the chest and abdominal cavities.

Types of Malignant Mesothelioma

The first type of malignant mesothelioma is called Pleural Mesothelioma or mesothelioma of the pleura. It is the most common type of mesothelioma making up approximately 75% of all mesothelioma cases. The pleura is a thin serous membrane found between the lungs and the chest cavity that provides a lubricated surface preventing the lungs from chafing against the chest walls. It also serves as a protective layer.

The second most common type of mesothelioma is Peritoneal Mesothelioma, also known as mesothelioma of the peritoneum. The peritoneum is a thin serous membrane that encloses the organs of the abdomen. Peritoneal Mesothelioma is a rare form of malignant mesothelioma cancer. This disease accounts for approximately 10% to 20% of all mesothelioma cases. It tends to be a more invasive form of cancer; patients diagnosed with this disease have a shorter life expectancy than if they had attracted Pleural Mesothelioma.

The third and least common type of mesothelioma is pericardial mesothelioma also known as mesothelioma of the pericardium. It accounts for less than 10% of all mesothelioma cases. The pericardium (heart sac) is the serous membrane that surrounds and protects the heart.

There are about 2,200 new cases of malignant mesothelioma of the visceral pleura each year. Mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose and is rarely curable. The most common symptoms are dyspnea and chest wall pain.

Causes



Asbestos is the predominant cause of malignant mesothelioma of the visceral pleura. The period between the time of exposure to asbestos and the onset of symptoms is about 20 to 50 years. Because of this late onset, it occurs most commonly in the later years of life. It also occurs more often in men than in women.

Diagnosis

Doctors usually make an incision through the chest wall and insert an instrument called a thoracoscope between two ribs to view the area. Doctors will then do a biopsy to select a tissue sample that can be analyzed under a microscope.

Stages of Mesothelioma

Stage I: The cancer is found in the lining of the chest cavity near the lung and heart or in the diaphragm or the lung.

Stage II: The cancer has spread beyond the lining of the chest to lymph nodes in the chest.

Stage III: Cancer has spread into the chest wall, center of the chest, heart, through the diaphragm, or abdominal lining, and in some cases into nearby lymph nodes.

Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs or tissues.

Treatment



Radiation and radiotherapy are used in situations where the cancer is localized at the point of origin.

Chemotherapy is used in more advanced stages of malignant mesotheliomas.

Cytoreductive surgery plus hyperthermic (heated) chemotherapy improves the survival and quality of life for patients with peritoneal metastases (tumors involving the lining of the abdomen).

Surgery is the option used for Stage I malignant mesothelioma. For stages II to IV, treatment by surgery is still evolving.

Dave Casey is a medical writer for Mesothelioma-Adviser.com, a guide for mesothelioma lung cancer victims. Visit the site for informative articles on the causes of mesothelioma, mesothelioma stages and treatment options.

Copyright 2007 Mesothelioma-Adviser.com

Mesothelioma - Your Questions Answered

Q. What is Mesothelioma?

A. Mesothelioma is a rare but potentially fatal cancer that affects a layer of the body called as mesothelium. Typically mesothelioma develops in the lining of the chest or abdominal cavity. There are three forms of mesothelioma:

1. Pleural mesothelioma. Mesothelioma that affects the coverings of the lungs.

2. Peritoneal mesothelioms. Mesothelioma that affects the covering of the abdominal organs.

3. Pericardial mesothelioma. Mesothelioma that affects the covering of the heart.

Pleural is the most common followed by peritoneal and lastly pericardial.

Q. What are the causes of mesothelioma?

A. Asbestos is the number one cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fine fiber material that is resistant to heat. These fibers when inhaled get into the air passages and then reach the pleural cells. The asbestos injures the pleural cells and this injury leads to either benign or malignant transformation. Asbestos is found in many types of industrial supplies and equipments. Asbestos exposure does not lead to mesothelioma immediately. Often it takes decades before the person manifests the symptoms of the disease. Smoking does not lead to mesothelioma though the risk is more for a smoker exposed to asbestos.

Q. What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

A. Often mistaken for pneumonia, mesothelioma is very difficult to diagnose based on symptoms alone. The most common symptoms include:

Persistent cough.

Shortness of breath.

Chest pains.

Swelling up of face and neck.

Coughing up blood.

Nausea and vomiting.

Weight loss.

Loss of appetite.

Not everyone exposed to asbestos will develop mesothelioma. However keep in mind the risk of asbestos exposure and mesothelioma and speaking to a doctor will help in screening and early detection of the disease.

Q. What treatment options are available for mesothelioma?

A. Mesothelioma is often a very difficult disease to diagnose and treat. The various treatment options include:

Surgery in early stages to reduce tumor burden.

Chemotherapy with agents like Cisplatin.

Radiotherapy.

Gene therapy.

Immunotherapy.

Photodynamic therapy.

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Mesothelioma Cancer and Asbestos

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer which occurs in thin membranes (called the mesothelium) lining the chest, lungs, abdomen and sometimes the heart. Although quite rare, mesothelioma symptoms strike more than 200 people each year in the United States. The majority of mesothelioma cases are directly linked to asbestos exposure.

Because of the long latency period of mesothelioma, the average age of patients is between 50 and 70 years. Mesothelioma affects men most due to the high exposure of asbestos in industrial typed jobs. Mesothelioma symptoms include respiratory problems, shortness of breath, continual cough and pneumonia. Other mesothelioma symptoms include weight loss, abdominal problems and swelling. In some mesothelioma patients, the mesothelioma symptoms are quite muted, making it hard for mesothelioma doctors to diagnose.

Mesothelioma doctors specialize in the study, research, and treatments of Mesothelioma cancers.

Mesothelioma (or the cancer of the mesothelium) is a disease in which cells become abnormal and replicate without control. During Mesothelioma, these cells will invade and damage tissues and organs. Mesothelioma cancer cells can spread throughout the body causing death.

Mesothelioma treatments and Mesothelioma clinical trials and tests

There are many mesothelioma treatment options available. Treatments include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy and the mesothelioma treatment depends on the patient’s age, general health and stage of the cancer. There has been much mesothelioma research conducted throughout the past two years to find new treatment methods. Click here to read more about mesothelioma treatment techniques.

Through mesothelioma research, The National Cancer Institute has sponsored mesothelioma tests and clinical trials that are designed to find new treatment methods. Because of the increase in number of mesothelioma cases in the United States, both governments have increased funding for mesothelioma research. Mesothelioma research and clinical trials have been successful in developing new techniques to fight this cancer and the outlook for more advanced mesothelioma treatments is promising.

Surgery is the most common treatment method for malignant mesothelioma. Tissues and linings affected by mesothelioma are removed by the doctor and may include the lung or even diaphragm.

A second mesothelioma treatment method is radiation therapy through the use of high energy x-rays that kill the cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be outside or inside the body.

A third mesothelioma treatment method is chemotherapy. Through pills or drugs through needles, chemotherapy drugs are used to kill cancer cells.

A new mesothelioma treatment method is called intraoperative photodynamic therapy. In this treatment, light and drugs are used to kill cancer cells during surgery for early stages of mesothelioma in the chest. Although there are numerous treatments and drugs for mesothelioma, doctors are losing the battle against this deadly disease. Most mesothelioma treatments involve old techniques combined with different drug cocktails. However, in most cases, these mesothelioma treatments have many side effects including organ damage, nausea, increase in heart failure etc. The rush to find a more effective mesothelioma treatment or even cure is ongoing at numerous clinical labs across the nation. Let's hope that the mesothelioma treatments will one day erradicate mesothelioma cancer and asbestosis.

With an abundance of information on the Internet, Mesothelioma Cancer and Asbestos ([http://www.mesothelioma-cancer-and-asbestos.com]) has consolidated the most important issues surrounding Mesothelioma, Mesothelioma doctors and symptoms, Mesothelioma treatment, Mesothelioma research and tests.

At [http://www.mesothelioma-cancer-and-asbestos.com], the website contains useful resources on Mesothelioma lawyers and attorneys, as well as causes by asbestos exposure, asbestos removal, asbestos attorneys and lawsuits, and asbestos cancer. Patients stricken by Mesothelioma and their families require support and current information. Mesothelioma Online Resources hopes to educate and give hope to survivors and victims.

Mesothelioma is such a harsh disease. Not only does it take years for symptoms to appear, but there are limited treatements and drugs that will prolong the lives of workers stricken with mesothelioma. In many cases, the death rate of mesothelioma is unfortunately very high. However, with increased funding in mesothelioma research through the government and private grants, the outlook for a mesothelioma cure is quite possible. In the meantime, mesothelioma support groups and local discussions provide the ongoing support for mesothelioma patients.

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About the website: Michael Kenneth is a successful Internet Publisher and has researched and written on many topics for [http://www.mesothelioma-cancer-and-asbestos.com] - your complete source for mesothelioma information, mesothelioma attorneys and lawyers, mesothelioma treatments and research, asbestos exposure and removal, asbestos attorneys and legislation as well as asbestos cancer.

Mesothelioma Lawyers - How to Find a Good One

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, or a loved one has been diagnosed with, or has died as a result of mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, you are probably entitled to compensation. Fortunately, there are plenty of good mesothelioma lawyers available for people in your situation. However, since cases involving mesothelioma can be very lucrative, there are also many lawyers who are unqualified to properly wage a mesothelioma lawsuit, but who attempt to do so anyway, because of the possibility of a large payoff. Finding a qualified mesothelioma attorney is very important, and could mean the difference in your ability to provide financial security for your family.

Because mesothelioma takes many years to develop, by the time it is diagnosed you may be beyond your state's statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit. That is why it is important to talk to a mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible. While the thought of fighting a lengthy court battle may sound daunting, many mesothelioma cases are settled out of court, so you may be able to reach a settlement without even filing a lawsuit. Regardless, it is imperative that you speak to a lawyer quickly after a diagnosis has been made in order to get the legal process under way.

It can be difficult for a mesothelioma attorney to prove that a patient's illness is a direct result of asbestos exposure, as its effects are similar to other illnesses. That is why having an attorney who is well-versed in the aspects of toxic tort litigation, the area of law that mesothelioma cases fall under, is extremely important. Only with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer, who understands asbestos product identification, as well as specific asbestos-related medical issues, can you expect to receive proper legal representation. Make sure you ask prospective lawyers if they are experienced in the area of mesothelioma and toxic tort litigation. Also, make sure that your mesothelioma attorney is going to actually be the one representing your case. Sometimes lawyers who aren't familiar with mesothelioma will refer you to someone else. Just make sure that you speak to the attorney who is going to be representing you, and that he or she is an experienced mesothelioma lawyer.

Mesothelioma is a heartbreaking illness, made more so by the fact that it is preventable. Unfortunately, by the time a diagnosis is made the only recourse is legal action, and ultimately a monetary settlement. Of course money can't replace your health, but it can eliminate your medical bills and provide your family with the security they deserve. A lawsuit is the only way to fight back against the asbestos industry, who is responsible for failing to warn the public of the dangers of their products. Remember, don't hesitate. If you are in need of representation for an asbestos-related illness, contact a qualified mesothelioma attorney today.

Find out more about Mesothelioma Lawyers [http://www.mesotheliomacancerresource.com/Mesothelioma_Attorneys.html].

Or learn more about Mesothelioma Cancer.

Mesothelioma Cancer: Early Recognition of Symptoms is Key to Successful Treatment

Symptoms of mesothelioma take many years to become apparent. In other words it has a long latency period. This makes it difficult to diagnose and treat. The person may repeatedly visit the doctor with the symptoms but more often considered as respiratory infections. The non-specific symptoms make it hard for even experienced doctors to make a quick and conclusive diagnosis with mesothelioma patients. Even people exposed to asbestos start showing the manifestation late in their life. By the time, mesothelioma is diagnosed, it is already widespread. However, the awareness of mesothelioma has made people detect it in early stages.

Manifestation of mesothelioma largely depends upon the location size and nature of the tumor. Sign and symptoms also depend upon whether the tumor is benign or malignant. Benign type of mesothelioma usually does not manifest itself. On the other hand, malignant type of mesothelioma has severe symptoms. It is mostly due to the pressure exerted on surrounding soft tissues. The malignancy may invade surrounding tissues or may result in pericardial or pleural effusion. Invasion of the chest wall may lead to chest pain.

The early symptoms to watch out for are:

Hemoptysis or Blood in the sputum
A cough or a change in cough pattern
Dysphagia or Difficulty in swallowing
Hoarseness
Shortness of breath
Pain in the chest or abdomen
Significant Weight loss.

Among all types of mesothelioma, the pleural form is the most prevalent form. As a result the pleural symptoms are the most common manifestations of mesothelioma. When in early stages, the symptoms are more or less like pneumonia and hence often misdiagnosed. However these symptoms along with history of asbestos exposure should ring alarms for mesothelioma. Physicians should be well aware of it as usually they are the first to get in contact with the patient.

Pleural mesothelioma

Dyspnoea or shortness of breath along with chest pain is common manifestation of pleural mesothelioma. Pleural effusion caused by collection of fluid between the two linings of lungs and chest cavity may give rise to persistent cough. On chest radiography a build-up of fluid or pleural effusion may be evident indicating viral pneumonia.

The less common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are:


Chest pain
Pain in the lower back
Difficulty breathing
Coughing
Weight loss
Fever
Muscle weakness and sensory loss
Swelling of the face and arms
Hoarseness of voice
Coughing up blood


A majority of patients do not show any sign and symptoms until late.

Peritoneal mesothelioma

It involves structures like abdomen, stomach cavity, liver, spleen or the bowel. The origin of peritoneal mesothelioma is usually abdomen, from where it spreads to adjoining organs. The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are:


Pain or swelling in the abdomen due to a build-up of fluid
Nausea
Weight loss
Bowel obstruction
Anemia or swelling of the feet
Abdominal bloating due to fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity
Swelling of the feet
Fever
Impaired bowel function


The symptoms are a consequence of pressure exerted by the growing mass. This growing tumor can also cause breathing problems, and chest pain in addition to these symptoms. These symptoms result from tumors that lean against the abdominal wall. Mesothelioma in peritoneum, owing to its space occupying tendency may give rise to bowel obstruction, anemia, fever and problems with blood clotting.

Pericardial mesothelioma

Pericardial mesothelioma is a very uncommon form affecting the pericardium. Pericardium is the cavity between the linings of the heart. The tumor that grows in the tissue surrounding heart tends to spread from there. Pericardial mesothelioma sufferers may experience chest pain, shortness of breath, persistent coughing and palpitations. Involvement of the membrane around the heart (pericardium) may cause heart rhythm disturbances.

The symptoms for all types of mesothelioma become more acute and obvious with the progression of the disease. In spite of it, it can be mistaken as other disease condition. The only differentiating feature is the history of exposure of asbestos. Therefore, it is critical to investigate one's exposure to asbestos. Symptoms like pain in the lower back or at the side of the chest, shortness of breath, trouble swallowing, cough, fever, sweating, fatigue and weight loss may be very common, but the doctor should elucidate the history of asbestos exposure to rule out the presence of tumor.

Don Lawson is a webmaster who researches and writes about important topics concerning people in today's society. You can learn more about Mesothelioma [http://www.mesothelioma-information-help.com] and its causes, symptoms, treatment options and clinics.

Mesothelioma Advice For Mesothelioma Patients And Their Families

A diagnosis of or even the suspicion of mesothelioma can bring with it a feeling of dread and fear that may it difficult to make the decisions that need to be made. At such times having access to sound mesothelioma advice can be priceless. Some information about the disease can sometimes be helpful.

Exposure To Asbestos And Mesothelioma

Asbestos is a name referring to six naturally occurring silicate minerals. Mesothelioma is a cancer that is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos at some point in the patient's past. Most often that exposure came from exposure on the job. Many industries utilized asbestos and in some cases endangered their workers. Some of these were shipbuilding, and some of the construction fields such as plumbing, or electrical workers.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

If you have a history of exposure to asbestos in your past, or if someone you were close to (physically - such as lived in the same house, etc.) had exposure then here are some symptoms to be conscious of. Lumps or abdominal swelling Shortness of breath along with abdominal pain Unexplained weight loss Loss of appetite Nausea Fever Night sweats Persistent cough Blood in the sputum None of these are necessarily caused by mesothelioma, and symptoms of mesothelioma are similar to other cancers, but any of these symptoms combined with a history of exposure to asbestos may mean that it may be a good idea to consult a physician.

Mesothelioma Diagnosis

The tools for the diagnosis of mesothelioma cancer are the same as those for the diagnosis of any cancer. The principle difference is the history of exposure to asbestos. Testing by use of x-rays and blood tests are first steps. There may be further testing by using CT (computed tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans. It may be necessary to obtain fluid from the lungs or within the abdomen. This is when it is sound advice to have the services of a physician with experience in the diagnosis of asbestos cancer mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Treatment

When a diagnosis of mesothelioma has been made, decisions will have to made about treatment options for malignant mesothelioma. As in the diagnosis of this disease it is important to find a physician experienced in the treatment of mesothelioma. While there is no cure yet, an experienced doctor may be able to give a patient more time with their loved ones and friends. Treatment is normally surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of these. Some of the factors involved in deciding ona course of treatment are what stage the cancer is, the size of any tumors, and the age and general health of the patient. Sometimes more than one specialist will be consulted to help decide the best course of treatment.

Mesothelioma And Your Rights

Mesothelioma is almost always associated with asbestos exposure. In the past some employers were less than candid about the dangers their employees were being exposed to. The result has been that in many cases these employers have been held responsible for the damage done to their employees' bodies.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma cancer, you should consult an attorney to explore whether or not you or your family may be entitled to compensation. The first thing to do is find an attorney who has experience pursuing a mesothelioma lawsuit against large corporations and dealing with a sometimes overwhelming and confusing legal system. Try to find an attorney who will treat you with concern and respect. You need someone with an appreciation of what you and your loved ones are experiencing, and who will provide you with all the information and guidance that you need.

Once you have chosen your attorney, you will go through your history. You will review any incidents of asbestos exposure. An experienced attorney will be able to help you remember these incidents. All of this is to lead to a mesothelioma settlement to help you or your family cope with the expenses and pain caused by your exposure to asbestos which led to your mesothelioma. Thousands of workers were exposed for many years and in some cases the companies they were working for knew that there were severe health issues associated with exposure to asbestos, yet they did little or nothing to protect their workers.

More information is available by going to the author's Hubpages dedicated to helping those touched by this dreadful disease. A starting point is located at http://hubpages.com/hub/Helpful-Mesothelioma-Advice.

Mesothelioma and Compensation - Who is Responsible?

Compensation is the greatest factor that drives people; it is considered as the greatest motivator of all things. Yet, compensation instigates more than plain monetary satisfaction. Above all things, it can give back whatever was lost.

Such is the case with mesothelioma and compensation. People who have acquired mesothelioma deem it necessary receive the proper compensation they deserve. Why? Simply because it is not their intention to get sick with mesothelioma.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma refers to progressive growth of malignant cells found in the mesothelium, thin sheet that covers and protects the vital organs of the body, such as the lungs.

Cancerous cells are described as malignant neoplasms. They demonstrate uncontrolled cell growth that follows no physiologic demand. When an abnormal cell is transformed by the genetic mutation of the cellular DNA, cancerous cells are formed. The cells infiltrate the tissues that surround them and gain access to lymph and blood vessels, which carry the cells to other areas of the body.

Normally, cancerous cells that develop in the mesothelium and eventually lead to mesothelioma are caused by glass-like particles that stick in the lungs. These particles come from asbestos, the common element used in building infrastructures. Asbestos is very popular in the industrial and construction field because of its high resistance against fire.

People who are exposed to asbestos have been found out to be the common patients diagnosed with mesothelioma. This is because the particles from asbestos that stick within the lungs tend to create cancerous cells. The damage caused by the process develops a disease process that triggers the growth of cancerous cells, where cell membranes are altered.

Overview of Mesothelioma and Compensation

Statistics show that nearly 80% of people afflicted with mesothelioma were working in the industrial field and construction area. Although mesothelioma is not a single disease with a single cause, the greatest common factor in developing the disease is asbestos.

Hence, society deems it necessary for these industries or employers, in general, to be responsible in providing the right compensation to their employees.

Issues on mesothelioma and compensation focus more on the privileges endowed to employees who have been sick with mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos at work. The underlying connection between mesothelioma and compensation is seen in the lawsuits filed against the employers. Generally, these legal actions are done to claim financial damages from the company, who is entirely accountable for the safety of their employees working environment and for the implementation of safety gear against such hazards as asbestos.

Compensation for mesothelioma cases usually covers medical bills and other expenses related to mesothelioma, such as loss for daily wages or inability to provide their family with the quality life due to their non-working status.

People who are generally entitled for mesothelioma compensation are those who worked in the building, custodial, construction, shipyard, and automotive industry.

To know more about mesothelioma and compensation:

1. It must be a cancer

Not everyone who had been exposed to asbestos can immediately file for mesothelioma compensation. The number factor to consider for such claims is the development of cancer. The gravity of asbestos exposure will determine the condition that states one's eligibility for mesothelioma compensation.

2. Find a good lawyer

Not all mesothelioma lawyers can help you in claiming your compensation. Moreover, most mesothelioma lawyers that render services for mesothelioma compensation charge high fees. Hence, not everybody can afford to hire a mesothelioma lawyer.

However, some lawyers are willing to provide a "no win, no pay" agreement. By the time they win the case, the lawyer shares a certain percentage on the compensation. Hence, it is best that you find a good lawyer for you to obtain the right claims for you.

3. State laws

Mesothelioma compensation may vary from one state to another. This means that the existing state laws regarding mesothelioma lawsuits will be applicable only within its jurisdiction. Hence, not all provisions stated in a certain mesothelioma compensation are applicable on the other mesothelioma cases in different states.

Indeed, mesothelioma compensation can be very helpful in answering financial problems caused by mesothelioma. Reports show that mesothelioma patients can claim as much as $3 million. So if you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, file your mesothelioma compensation now.

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