Mesothelioma

Contact with Asbestos

2011-03-04T08:52:00.000-08:00

Contact with asbestos is a main probability variable involving mesothelioma. Asbestos is undoubtedly an insulation fabric consisting of magnesium-silicate nutrient dust.

That it was liked by building firms plus trades-people for quit some time due to its very low heating conductivity plus challenge so that you can fading plus losing.

Considering investigators currently have revealed progressively more one-way links amongst mesothelioma plus contact with asbestos, a fabric is already a reduced amount of key. In advance of the following uncovering, having said that, scores of People experienced really serious contact with the following detrimental ingredient.

Source : Cancer.gov

Risk Factors for Mesothelioma

2011-03-04T08:37:00.000-08:00

There are certain probability risk factors that add to the opportunity than a human being will build up mesothelioma. The principle probability risk factor is definitely asbestos vulnerability.

Experience of this kind of extremely damaging compound can easily substantially boost the probability of being infected with the illness.

Smoking cigarettes won't have a primary causal connection with mesothelioma yet but can be a considerable compounding aspect and also boosts the probability of creating the illness.

Additional much less typical supplementary factors of mesothelioma consist of contact with the radiation, zeolite, simian computer virus forty (SV40) as well as erionite.

Source : cancer

Which are the Principal Factors that Cause Mesothelioma?

2011-02-15T04:49:00.000-08:00

Mesothelioma is definitely a lot of mostly the result of asbestos vulnerability. Asbestos dust that happen to be inhaled in the teeth plus face could finally develop into inlayed while in the paving of your bronchi, resulting in ruin plus creating mesothelioma lung many forms of cancer and also asbestosis (scar flesh configuration while in the lungs). There are already been determined this taking asbestos dust may possibly develop some sort of mesothelioma while it began with an abdominal area labeled peritoneal mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma cancers commonly effects by work-related subjection although you will discover cases of the environmental experience of asbestos that could lead to mesothelioma sickness. In many cases resale subjection connected with someone close a great asbestos individual grubby do the job apparel could lead to of which friend which has a mesothelioma examination.

Asbestos padding employees seem to achieve the greatest death rate. One research reviews which nearly 6 % associated with asbestos employees drop target in order to mesothelioma or even encounter mesothelioma symptoms as well as asbestos padding employees tend to be more than three hundred occasions prone to pass away through mesothelioma compared to most people.

How to find a Mesothelioma Specialist ?

2011-02-03T09:13:00.000-08:00

Mesothelioma is one form of cancer. Most doctors are not sure about the progress of medical diagnosis, and symptoms of this disease. Therefore, it is very important that patients find specialists who are knowledgeable about all the latest information about Mesothelioma. Howto find a Mesothelioma specialist ?

A doctor who has decided to become a Mesothelioma specialist has a license to practice medicine and also has passed a special examination of this disease. There are different types of specialists that focus on different aspects of this cancer.

Thorax surgical oncologists, medical oncologists and radiation oncology and all will work together to formulate the best plan for action treatment and care. Not only specialists were involved, but other health professionals are also involved. Pathology experts, respiratory therapists, social workers and psychiatrists can all help in tackling this aggressive form of cancer.

When choosing a Mesothelioma doctor, it is important to ask lots of questions and ask the doctor's educational background. The relationship between patient and physician must be built on trust and respect. Keeping an open line of communication will ensure that the best treatment plan can be done.

Mesothelioma Gene Therapy

2011-01-07T15:36:00.000-08:00

Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma

Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma is showing low survival rate regardless of tumor stage at diagnosis. Malignant Mesothelioma does not respond to treatments and new protocols are badly needed there. The localized nature, the potential availability and the relative lack of distant metastases of malignant mesothelioma is a particularly attractive candidate for somatic gene therapy.

A common goal for the treatment of cancer, the p53 tumor suppressor protein. P53 does not appear to be mutated or deleted in malignant mesothelioma, but it can bind to other proteins, such as inactivated MDM2 and SV40 large T antigen

It tested the effect of a replication-deficient adenoviral vector, the cDNA of wild-type p53 in human cells, malignant mesothelioma. Our results indicate that over 95% of malignant mesothelioma cells efficiently with 25 multiplicity of infection (MOI) of infected vector.

P53 wild type was actually expressed> 80% inhibition of cell proliferation in malignant mesothelioma cells. AdCMV.p53 infection-induced apoptosis, whereas controls showed no obvious morphological change.

Ex vivo gene transfer, p53 inhibited tumor growth in nude mice. Arrested in vivo by direct intratumoral injection AdCMV.p53 of tumor growth and prolonged survival time of treated mice. These results strongly indicate that p53 gene therapy to be used for clinical trials of patients with malignant mesothelioma. By Monty Wrobleski.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) for Mesothelioma Therapy

2010-12-03T19:52:00.000-08:00

TENS for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma therapy and treatments come with combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The earlier mesothelioma is detected the morel likely the patient respond to treatment.

According to Andriyan, TENS stand for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation is a kind of treatment for mesothelioma that use same idea as massage and acupuncture. They put electrodes on the skin in certain location, where patients experiencing pain.

How it works? The device sent a certain electrical shock from a small battery pack. The electrical shock help removing pain from the patient. First the shock will send message to patient's brain to release more endorphins, endorphins are natural chemical produced by the body that create feeling of euphoria/happy. Than the shock will also send the message to the brain to block pain.

Another benefit of using this treatment is that TENS could be performed at home. First professional therapist will help patients finding the right place to put electrodes and perform how to use the device correctly. Later on, patients could perform the treatment by themselves. TENS also a good choice of mesothelioma therapy because it is not like any other medication that one should be aware of any side effects if they are on any other medication treatments. But for pregnant patients, they should consult to their doctor first before using this treatment. And for those who are not ease on using TENS, professional therapists are ready to help you with the treatment of mesothelioma disease.

How to Avoid Mesothelioma

2010-04-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

Below are some questions and answers that will explain to avoid Mesothelioma.

Not many people heard of Mesothelioma and are unaware of their symptoms. The disease is considered a cancer which are difficult to find, but the number of cases each year continues to increase. Prevalence rate of this disease is very large so it is important to understand what, why and how Mesothelioma develops.

Meaning of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a malignant (cancerous). The Cancer cells are found in the mesothelium, it is a protective sac that covers most organs in the body. These cancer cells often attacks the lungs, heart and abdominal organs. The most common form is pleural mesothelioma. Pleural Mesothelioma is cancer of the lining of the lungs. And cancer cells can be found in the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneum) and the layer around the heart (pericardium).

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually caused by asbestos. Asbestos material is often found in pipes, boiler insulation, floor, ceiling and roof tiles. Asbestos material is in the environment such as asbestos mills, mines, shipping yards, some Navy ships or even older patients at home. About 3000 cases of mesothelioma per year are currently being diagnosed. Family members of workers exposed to asbestos can also contract this disease through exposure to workers' clothing. Like other cancers, smoking greatly increases the risk of contracting mesothelioma.

Volume of Asbestos that will Cause Mesothelioma

The development of this cancer are directly related to length of time you are exposed to asbestos. And health risks also increased with the intensity of exposed asbestos. A presentation stating that only one or two months exposed to asbestos, can cause mesothelioma in 30 or 40 years later.

That are some points to explain how to avoid Mesothelioma

An Example of Treatment Difficulties of Mesothelioma

2009-11-25T04:16:00.000-08:00

Smoking is a rare cancer is contact asbestos. This disease is a cruel cancer types, because it is hard to find, often only diagnosed late stage. At this point, the treatment is usually very difficult. Give your idea, we have a job how difficult it is, in this article. The complication,

This is mesothelium cancer entry. This mesothelium found is a kind of lining the chest and abdomen, is more or less protection organs of scabbard, such as the heart and lungs. Although cancer easily recognizable, cannot say so, in thin lining around it. This is what makes mesothelioma so deadly. It is usually very late, usually found in has grown up to 20, 30, 40 years or longer.

Cancer is the most commonly found in mesothelioma lung. The doctor�s diagnosis, usually must undergo biopsy material. It is through the creation of a small incision, then insert the relevant medical instrument. Small amounts of substances are cut off, and then sent to the office and pathology in microscope examination. It sounds simple, but here is to cope with this. new

Surgeons have noticed a unique problems, this form of cancer. To perform a biopsy, a cancer often take the invasion of the incision. Cancerous growths and sprout, began to flourish. Consider, for one minute. This kind of cancer is so difficult, making an incision can spread. Facing this huge problems, you can understand why less than 10% of the patients survived 5 years.

Smoking is a rare disease, but a vicious circle. Treatment is improving, but no cure, has found that one is on the horizon. In this case, it is clear that should prohibit partial asbestos into a complete ban, absolutely, more and more people suffer.

Source : Meso

Mesothelioma Types and Their Symptoms

2009-11-25T04:06:00.000-08:00

Mesothelioma or cancer is a deadly mesothelium tumor, influence, peritoneal and pericardium lining, abdomen, subpleural lung and heart around. This is a deadly disease causing the asbestos, natural minerals.

Tumors are benign, namely mesothelioma. This may explain and spreading or can be amplified malignant such as cancer and spread to other parts of the body cause death. The main reason is that long-term exposure to asbestos, it has a 30-50 years incubation period.

Different types of entry

Smoking can be divided into three categories depending on the area of the body.
Three common mesothelioma.

1. Pleural mesothelioma

2. Peritoneal mesothelioma

3. Pericardial mesothelioma

Pleural mesothelioma

The most common form, the pleural mesothelioma pleural mesothelioma) is (cancer tumors protective liner. It can be benign or malignant.

Pleural is a sac � like membrane by two layers of chest was released. This, in turn, like a lubricant agent to breathe, pulmonary function. Period,

Symptoms:

Common symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma are:

� Shortness of breath

� Chest pain

� Back pain

� Pain in the rib cage

Other symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma, for both benign and cancerous forms, include:

� Fluid build-up in the lung lining

� Hoarseness

� Coughing up blood

� Swelling of the face and arms

� Muscle weakness

� Paralysis

� Sensory loss

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Another common form of mesothelioma is peritoneal mesothelioma or cancer of the peritoneum that causes tumor in the abdominal lining. Like pleural it can be benign or malignant.

The peritoneum is the membrane that covers most of the organs in the abdominal cavity and also includes:

� Tunica Vaginalis Testis (mesothelial tissue lining the male internal reproductive organs)

� Tunica Serosa Uteri (mesothelial tissue lining the female reproductive organs).

Symptoms

The fluid released in the peritoneum helps in the smooth functioning of these organs. When the peritoneum is affected, some common symptoms experienced are:

� Stomach pain

� Weight loss

� Nausea

� Vomiting

� Hernia

� Bowel obstruction

� Fluid in the abdominal cavity

If the cancer spreads beyond the abdominal cavity, additional symptoms can be found, such as:

� Anemia

� Blood clotting abnormalities

� Trouble swallowing

� Swelling of neck, face or arms

Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial Mesothelioma or the cancer of pericardium is a tumor of the protective sac-like lining around the heart.

Pericardium protects the heart by:

� Smoothening its motion against surrounding organs

� Limiting its motion so that it stays in the chest cavity

� Preventing it from over-expansion during excess influx of blood

Symptoms

When pericardium�s function is affected by mesothelioma, the following symptoms may occur:

� Chest pain

� Shortness of breath

� Fluid accumulation in the lining

Source : Meso

Treatment of Traditional Mesothelioma

2009-11-25T04:00:00.000-08:00

Traditional treatment is the standard treatment for malignant mesothelioma entry, this is a kind of disease, cancer cells and tissues of the body mesothelial effect. Mesothelioma treatments because of different factors, such as the position of cancer cells, and the patient�s disease, a personal choice. Generally speaking, the traditional surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, including mesothelioma or different combinations, these 3 kinds of treatment.

Surgical treatment of cancer, or delete the affected organ or alleviate pain. Sometimes it may not be able to remove all the parts, almost has spread, However surgery may help to relieve pain. Two categories, including �lung surgery� and �palliative program.�

Pneumonectomy involves lung. This method in two varieties, �traditional� lesions resected lung cancer is removed, and extrapleural lung �in� poor pulmonary and parts, the diaphragm and parietal pericardium pleural side with the chest, has been cancelled.

Application procedures, treatment, but cannot heal mesothelioma symptoms to relieve pain and control. �Thoracentisis� and �pleurectomy/decortication� is all sorts of palliative program. In thoracentisis, a needle is on the chest, either from liquid to diagnose, or from liquid to alleviate pain. Pleurectomy/decortication remove pleural to alleviate the pain or prevent recurrence of pleural effusion.

Chemotherapy is another important traditional treatments used to kill cancer cells of the entry into the intravenous drugs. This method also involves the use of drugs to maintain normal tumor cells. Quite serious side effects, but in the treatment of chemotherapy, and may even damage because of cancer cells, but health. Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss, constipation, decreased appetite and oral ulcer is some of its effects.

Radiation therapy (radiotherapy or treatment with high-energy rays) (such as X-ray) to destroy the cancer cells in the local area. Entry Although healthy cells would also be affected, they can more effectively repair themselves. Radiation effects include as a kind of traditional treatment mesothelioma fatigue, hair, skin allergy, nausea and breathing difficulties.

Source : Meso

Mesothelioma Cancer Treatment

2009-11-25T03:55:00.000-08:00

Cancer is a kind of disease, mesothelioma from exposure

To the relevant material asbestos. Asbestos fiber, usually by then
Enter the body through the mouth or skin, then enter
Lung and blood.

Mesothelioma cancer has become more widely in the record last 5-10 years,
Due to the symptoms of asbestos cancer between 20 to 40 years for
To manifest. Cancer is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma symptoms, such as no tendency
Until then show their disease. Symptoms,
Mesothelioma lung cancer has shortness of breath, chest pain, fever and other
Minor illnesses such as pneumonia.

The most commonly occurs in the asbestos cancer men between the ages of 50-70 years old
Who were exposed to high levels of asbestos in the workplace. Asbestos is
Mainly used in manufacturing industry, such as automobile, shipbuilding
In the construction industry. With asbestos is only recently
In 1990.

Mesthelioma lung cancer has been found to be the most common form
It happened in the lung cancer and pleural mesothelioma (.).
Cancer can also mesothelioma abdominal peritoneum) (
In the heart (pericardial). Have a greater chance of malignant
Abdominal asbestos cancer. For a more detailed explanation of smoking
Cancer,

Smoking can be detected by lung CT scan, make it
Sometimes the diagnosis of early than the other two types of mesothelioma cancer.
This type of cancer therapy depends on the stage of cancer. Entry
The patient was diagnosed, age and individual be fond of. Alzheimer�s disease
Four different stage division. At this stage of the process, reached the disease
Cancer treatment method to determine the entry. In the first stage
Cancer of the lungs, only can attempt to remove surgeon
Surgical resection of the tumor. Once the tumor into the surrounding the body
In a later period, it cannot be cured.

Generally speaking, the more advanced mesothelioma
Cancer treatment is radiation and chemotherapy. Radiation,
Using high energy X-ray destroy cancerous cells treated with contraction
Cancer chemotherapy, on the other hand, the use of drugs to destroy the cancer cells.
The aim is to extend the entry of cancer therapy the patient�s life
Because of the more advanced disease can not be cured.

Besides the traditional mesothelioma cancer treatment, also have
Currently investigating different experimental treatments with new
Hope.

This form of biological immune: treatment mesothelioma cancer treatment
Using the patient�s own immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Clinical research,
The immune system that can distinguish healthy cell tumor cells,
So can be used to destroy the cancer cells.

Gene therapy: this type of cancer therapy is still in the entry
Stage of development. This course includes into a particular genes
Into the tumor. The genes that cancer cells sensitive
Glanciclovir antiviral drugs, in normal circumstance is not practical
According to these cells. This glanciclovir can destroy all the cancer
No damage healthy tissue cells.

Drug treatment of symptomatic only: drug approved drugs
The us food and drug administration (FDA) for the treatment of patients with malignant tumor
Mesothelioma lung cancer. This new and exciting drugs has been proved in practice
Test, reducing symptoms and increase the patients.

Photodynamic therapy: photodynamic therapy including use
Light to kill cancer cells. Patient first
Photosensitizing drugs, only collect in cancer cells. Optical fiber cable
Then insert the body, so that the frequency of light must focus
Tumor. Light stimulates photosensitizing toxic oxygen molecule drugs
The destroy cancerous cells.

These experiments, although still mesothelioma cancer treatment in development,
Cancer patients to provide better prospects and long service life. with
The possibility that more and more people have been diagnosed with asbestos
Cancer, further research for other forms of cancer therapy mesothelioma
Is of vital importance.

Source : Meso

Treatments of Mesothelioma

2009-11-25T03:45:00.000-08:00

Malignant mesothelioma treatments may be difficult, all kinds of reasons. First, to correct diagnosis, entry may not appear in a patient for decades. This could cause problems with the processing, because, like all mesothelioma of cancer therapy is more difficult, and are no longer allowed to the progress of the disease. In addition, caused by delay treatment of difficulty, this disease is usually mesothelioma should not traditional cancer therapies, more complex treatment. At the same time, the agency, involving mesothelioma cannot bear part or the whole of the removed usually, it means surgical options can be very limited. Finally, the fact that most of the male patients with advanced international level of smoking older than 50 years, usually means that the more radical therapy can be used, because fall because of the health old.

Altogether, this means that even mesothelioma patients, recently diagnosed can get quite a negative outcome doctos from them. Statistics is difficult, but British scientists think 10% of the patients newly diagnosed with at least 3 years of entry, Only 5% of the live for five years or longer. In the first stage, 50% of patients live for at least two years. But doctors may be wrong, and diagnosed mesothelioma is not always equal death. In the case of a famous scientist Stephen jay gould, live peritoneal mesothelioma nearly 20 years. Finally, he died of another kind of cancer.

The four stages of disease malignant mesothelioma measurement has been improved. How to treat patients mesothelioma depends largely on which stage, he or she�s sick.

I: local mesothelioma * stage, only exist in lung, diaphragm and pericardium lining.

The second stage: advanced mesothelioma sexually transmitted to the lymph nodes in the chest.

Stage 3: advanced mesotheioma * has spread to the chest wall, chest, heart and diaphragm. The third stage malignant mesothelioma may or may not has spread to lymph nodes.

* 4: advanced mesothelioma is spread to other organs in the chest and abdomen.

Surgery,

Example 1) or mild second stage mesothelioma is usually provide one or more traditional cancer therapy: surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. For early surgery patients, the disease is cured by literally entry cutting of cancer patients. The most common surgery is a pleurectomy pleural mesothelioma or decortication and this is doctor remove all or part of a lung tissue and chest. If doctors found that they cannot eliminate cancer and dismantling of lung tissue, they may also removed a pneumonectomy under, This is called. A more radical types of surgical treatment of pleural mesothelioma called extrapleural pneunonectomy (EPP). In this case, the surgeon will remove a subpleural lung cancer and a heart of inner diaphragm,. It is dangerous and difficult types of surgery, the surgeon will recommend or light.

This kind of influence, peritoneal mesothelioma abdominal surgery patients could give cytoredutive. In the surgery, doctors are trying to remove all the cancerous tissue they can find his belly and viscera. Doctors also can choose peritonectomy throughout the abdomen will be removed. Again, this isn�t an easy surgery and may not be suitable for every man, but it has successfully some patients. Cardiac patients undergoing surgery is generally entry.

Radiation and chemotherapy

In addition, or instead of the surgery, doctors will give patients with early mesothelioma chemotherapy and radiotherapy or both. Radiation and chemotherapy are used to kill cancer patients without killing. Unfortuantely, in order to kill cancer cells, these people often kill healthy cells. This is why cancer patients often lose their hair, diet, and generally weak and sick. The doctor prescribed of chemotherapy and radiation may also suggest nutritional supplements or other measures to control these symptoms.

Chemotherapy is any treating patients is specially designed to chemical drug therapy of cancer cells attack experience. This drug is injected into the blood often swallowing or in weeks or months later, in a loop, and give some patients recover time during treatment. Patients can stay at home, only need to visit your doctor�s office, they can be treated, Sometimes even treatment at home. In some cases, doctors can choose chemotherapy drugs, it needs directly carcinoma patients who, so must live in a hospital. There are many different kinds of chemotherapy drugs, scientists are trying to develop better every day.

Radiation therapy, aims to kill cancer cells and high-energy rays radiation, such as x-rays, prevent them grow. Patients with external-beam radiotherapy, directed by director certain parts of the body ray radiation is affected by cancer. This treatment lasts about 30 minutes a day, is in the same every day after a few weeks. In brachytherapy (internal, the doctor beside a container of radioactive substances of cancerous tissue, surgery, or existing in the body cavity. Some, others will be removed, replaced. Finally, radiopharmaceuticals is sometimes used to execute the radiation therapy, or injections into the body cavity or swallowed.

Source : Meso Info

California Mesothelioma Laws And California Mesothelioma Lawyers

2009-11-20T09:33:00.000-08:00

Finding a highly qualified and competent California mesothelioma attorney involves a little investigation. Newly diagnosed victims of Mesothelioma in California often have ample questions involving their health, their future, and their lawful recourses in the event of a mesothelioma diagnosis. The facts of mesothelioma are not easy to hear, nor are they easy to deal with. While a Mesothelioma doctor is equipped to answer medical and health questions as they relate to Mesothelioma, only a qualified Mesothelioma attorney is capable of answering questions that are associated with the legal ramifications of a mesothelioma diagnosis.

California mesothelioma victims are encouraged to make a list of questions that they feel they need answers to, one list for their Mesothelioma physician and another list for their attorney. The top ten questions to ask a California mesothelioma attorney have been suggested here, but there will be many more questions regarding a Mesothelioma case.

1. It is vital to contact a Mesothelioma lawyer as quickly as possible as many states have complicated regulations concerning Mesothelioma lawsuits. The first question to ask a qualified Mesothelioma lawyer is whether or not you qualify to file a Mesothelioma lawsuit. This of course will involve divulging all the information possible to allow the Mesothelioma lawyer to determine if you qualify to file a Mesothelioma lawsuit.

2. Some California mesothelioma lawyers are already involved with other Mesothelioma lawsuits or Mesothelioma settlements which may preclude them from taking on any new cases. It is possible that you may qualify for a class action lawsuit or perhaps an individual Mesothelioma lawsuit, depending on the circumstances. Mesothelioma patients need to inquire whether their case would be handled as an individual case or as part of a class action Mesothelioma lawsuit, and which would benefit them the most.

3. Knowing that your potential Mesothelioma lawyer has ample actual courtroom experience is a highly important part of hiring a Mesothelioma lawyer. It is perfectly acceptable to inquire with your potential Mesothelioma lawyer about their prior Mesothelioma and courtroom experience. Mesothelioma lawsuits are not the type of lawsuits you want a newbie cutting their teeth on, there is simply too much at stake.

4. California mesothelioma lawsuits tend to be large cases with a lot of complicated laws and circumstances to navigate. A Mesothelioma attorney needs to have ample support and resources to assist in the research and argument process. You will want to ask the Mesothelioma attorney how many Mesothelioma cases are in the firm, how many Mesothelioma expert lawyers are in the firm, and how much extra support services they can receive from the other California mesothelioma attorneys in the law firm.

5. Mesothelioma victims tend to be victimized by the contraction of the disease and are often very sensitive to other people's feelings, including their Mesothelioma lawyer's feelings. Asking questions that validate their experience is a good thing, and is not offensive to a Mesothelioma lawyer. If your potential Mesothelioma attorney reacts to questions with offense, it is not in your best interest to hire them. Asking them about their track record with Mesothelioma cases, how many went to trial versus how many of them were settled, as well as the results of each case is a reasonable line of questioning.

6. It is rarely in the best interest of the Mesothelioma victim for their case to be split between multiple law firms. Asking whether your lawsuit will be handled in house or if there is the possibility of splitting the case between law firms is a question of relative importance.

7. The vast majority of California mesothelioma cases are handled on a contingency basis, which means the attorney gets paid a percentage of what he or she is able to win on the Mesothelioma victim's behalf. If the case goes nowhere, the Mesothelioma lawyer typically doesn't get paid. The percentage of the Mesothelioma award or the Mesothelioma settlement which typically goes to the representing Mesothelioma lawyer is between 30 and 40 percent.

8. Asking your California mesothelioma lawyer to describe the process of a lawsuit will enable you to understand the process which you are about to enter as well as inform you of how well your Mesothelioma lawyer communicates..

9. It is important to understand how long the Mesothelioma lawyer will need for research and how much information he or she will need from the Mesothelioma victim and the Mesothelioma doctor. Television has given us the impression that lawsuits and court proceedings happen quickly. They don't it takes time, and for a Mesothelioma victim, time is very precious.

10. California mesothelioma laws may vary by county. Establishing the jurisdiction that the Mesothelioma case will be tried is vital. Often it is tried in the county which the exposure to asbestos took place. Your Mesothelioma lawyer will have to have access to that region.

Three Types of Malignant Mesothelioma

2009-11-19T04:52:00.000-08:00

Mesothelioma cell lines the inside chest and abdomen, as well as heartfelt bag - the cavity around the heart. These cells are also lines the surface of most internal organs.

Fabric formed mezotelialnymi cells is called mezoteliya. Mezotely chest called pleurisy, abdominal - ventral cavity and heart - pericardium. Tumors mezoteliya are benign and malignant, and usually there are malignant tumors, called mesothelioma.

There are three types of malignant mezoteliom:
1. Epitelioidny type of 50-70% of all mezoteliom and with the best prognosis (outcome).

2. Sarkomatoidny type (7-20%).

3. Mixed type (20-35%).

Nearly 3 / 4 mezoteliom occurs in the thoracic cavity and are called the pleura mezoteliom. In 10-20% of the tumor develops in the abdomen - mesothelioma peritoneum. Mesothelioma pericardiocentesis occur very infrequently.

How frequently malignant mesothelioma occur?
Mesothelioma is a rare tumor, which is more common in men after 50 years. Every year thousands of new evidence of 2-3 cases. The tumor may be a long time, asymptomatic, and therefore is often detected at later stages, which negatively influences the prognosis (outcome) of disease. The average survival rate of patients is usually only 1-2 years.

Risk factors of malignant mesothelioma.
Exposure to asbestos is a major risk factor for mesothelioma. Asbestos is used in the manufacture of insulation and fire-resistant materials, tiles, brake pads, etc. Once the relationship of contact with asbestos and mesothelioma development of this substance has been dramatically reduced.
The risk of developing mesothelioma depends on the intensity and duration of exposure to asbestos. Prolonged contact at a young age greatly increases the risk of mesothelioma. The time period from the time of first contact with asbestos before the diagnosis of tumors is 20-50 years.

Smoking by itself does not affect the increase in the development of mesothelioma, but the combination of smoking and asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer. A smoking people exposed to asbestos, the risk of developing lung cancer increased in the 50-90 times compared with the general population.

To prevent (prevent) the development of mesothelioma must be taken to avoid contact with asbestos at home and at work.

Diagnosis of mesothelioma
Early symptoms mezoteliom are not specific. They are sometimes ignored or taken for patients of normal neopuholevyh diseases. Most patients with mesothelioma symptoms appear in 2-3 months to identify the tumor. A number of patients with symptoms may continue for 6 months or more.

50% of patients with mesothelioma pleura note at the bottom of a chest pain in the side or rear surface. Many patients complain of shortness of breath. In some cases, there is difficulty swallowing, coughing, sweating, weakness, weight loss and increased temperature. Other symptoms can indicate osiplost voice, hemoptysis, swelling of the face and upper limbs.

Patients with mesothelioma peritoneum possible abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss. Some patients may receive the fluid in the abdomen (ascites) and / or swelling.

If you like mezoteliomu is an urgent need to consult a doctor to ascertain the presence of risk factors and appoint survey. During the examination the doctor can detect the presence of fluid in the pleural cavity (pleurisy), abdomen (ascites) or perikarde (pericarditis), which occurs as a result of the development of tumors.

Chest x-ray can detect thickening of pleura, the presence of kaltsifikatov (mineral deposits) in plevre and fluid in the pleural cavity.

Computer tomography (CT) makes it possible to diagnose mesothelioma and to determine the prevalence of (stage).

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help identify lesions diaphragm - the muscle tissue, which separates the chest and abdominal cavity.

Thoracoscopy (examination of pleural cavity with a special device) you can not only identify the tumor, but also to make a biopsy (take a piece of tissue for research) or to obtain fluid for microscopic studies to clarify the diagnosis.

Laparoscopy (abdominal examination with the help of the device) you can examine the abdominal cavity, take a piece of the tumor, or fluid for research.

Stages (prevalence), mesothelioma
Currently, only differentiated stage mesothelioma pleura, as occurs much more frequently than others localizations. There are 4 stages pleura mesothelioma.

Stage I - the tumor affects plevru the left or right, and the lymph nodes in the process is not involved.

Stage II - one-sided defeat of pleura and the spread of tumor in the diaphragm or lung tissue.

Stage III - one-sided defeat of pleura and distribution process on the front chest wall, or fatty tissue mediastinum, or pericardium, or lymph nodes on the side of mesothelioma.

Stage IV - mesothelioma involved in muscle or ribs, or sprouts diaphragm, or esophagus, trachea, thymus, the major blood vessels, or spine, or moving to the other side, or distributed through the bloodstream to distant organs.

Treatment of malignant mesothelioma
The choice of treatment depends on several factors including the stage of the tumor, the general condition of the patient and his views. Given the rarity of mesothelioma, it is advisable to carry out specialized cancer treatment facilities that have experience in the treatment of such patients.
Surgical treatment
The operation can be performed as a palliative or therapeutic purposes. A palliative operation meant surgery, which can eliminate or reduce pain or discomfort caused by the growth of tumors. Such operations are used when it is impossible to remove a tumor because of the prevalence of the condition of the patient or heavy.

Plevroektomiya / decortication is generally palliative operation is to remove the pleura, which prevents the accumulation of fluid and reduce the pain.

Torakotsentez - a procedure in which a needle is removed from the liquid from the pleural cavity to facilitate the patient's condition.

The introduction of talc or antibiotics in the pleural cavity in order to temporarily prevent the accumulation of fluid in the well in 90% of patients with mesothelioma pleura.

Puncture the front abdominal wall allows you to remove the accumulated fluid in the abdomen in patients with mesothelioma peritoneum.

Patients with mesothelioma pericardiocentesis pericardiocentesis execution provides an opportunity to remove fluid and improve the heart's activity.

Patients in a satisfactory condition with a localized tumor, performing radical surgery, ie complete removal of mesothelioma.
One should bear in mind that often, after the alleged radical operations are microscopic tumor foci. In this regard, the importance of radical operations in patients with mesothelioma contested.

Vneplevralnaya pneumonectomy is the removal of pleura, diaphragm, pericardiocentesis and light on the side of destruction. This extended operation can be performed only highly trained surgeons, oncologists in the patients with good general condition with severe concomitant diseases.

In patients with localized mezotelimoy peritoneum may be an attempt to remove a tumor along with part of the abdominal wall. Unfortunately, most patients with mesothelioma peritoneum performance of radical operations can not be in the prevalence of the process.

In the case of localized lesions pericardiocentesis performed his disposal, and in the dissemination process - palliative intervention to prevent the accumulation of fluid.

Radiation therapy
External radiation is used in patients with mesothelioma frequently.
With internal radiation radioactive material is brought directly to the tumor.
This type of radiation therapy is used as the primary method of treatment for patients in serious condition, when they can not move a serious operation.

Supporting radiotherapy after non appointed operations to destroy the remaining cancer cells.
Palliative irradiation is used to alleviate symptoms caused by the growth of tumors: shortness of breath, pain, bleeding and difficulty swallowing.

Radiation therapy can cause adverse reactions and complications in the form of burning the skin, weakness, nausea, vomiting, liquid stool, damage lung tissue, difficulty breathing.
Most adverse events being held after the completion of the course of irradiation.
It is known that radiation therapy may increase the side effects of chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy
When treating patients with malignant mesothelioma drugs could be imposed not only intravenously, but intrapleural and vnutriperitonealno (in the abdominal cavity).
Depending on the stage of tumor chemotherapy can be both substantive and supportive treatment. Moreover, chemotherapy is used only as a palliative, giving only a temporary effect.
Of the anticancer drugs used: doxorubicin, cisplatin, methotrexate, vinorelbin and others in various combinations.

On the adverse reactions of chemotherapy include: nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss, the appearance of ulcers in the mouth, increased susceptibility to infections, bleeding. Most adverse events being held after completion of treatment.

Source : Over Mesothelioma

Risk Factors for Malignant Mesothelioma?

2009-11-19T04:44:00.000-08:00

What are the risk factors for malignant mesothelioma?

There are several risk factors that increase the likelihood that a person will develop mesothelioma. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure. Exposure to this very harmful substance can significantly enhance the chances of contracting the disease. Other secondary factors include exposure to radiation, zeolite, simian virus 40 (SV40) and tobacco. We discuss each of these risk factors in more detail below.

Asbestos

Exposure to asbestos is the leading risk factor associated with mesothelioma. Asbestos is an insulating material comprised of magnesium-silicate mineral fibers. It was favored by builders and contractors for many years for its low heat conductivity and resistance to melting and burning. Since researchers have identified more and more links between mesothelioma and exposure to asbestos, the material is now less widely used. Prior to this discovery, however, millions of Americans have experienced serious exposure to this harmful substance.

Over 700,000 schools and buildings in the United States today contain asbestos insulation as reported by the US Environmental Protection Agency. Asbestos exposure doesn�t stop there, however. Asbestos is often found in ship yards, manufacturing facilities, railway facilities and construction sites. Blue collar workers are at the highest risk for developing mesothelioma due to occupational exposure and include those who work in mines, factories, shipyards, construction sites, railroads and for insulation manufacturers and gas mask manufacturers. The occupations most widely affected are miners, factory workers, railroad workers, ship builders and construction workers - especially those who install asbestos containing insulation. Sometimes family members related to the workers receive second hand exposure to asbestos from the dust and fibers that were brought home on the workers clothes and also become at risk for contracting mesothelioma.

Serpentine fibers and amphiboles are the 2 primary types of asbestos used. Chrysotile is a form of serpentine fiber and the most frequently used. These fibers tend to be curly and flexible. Amphibole fibers, however, are generally straight and thin and usually comprise one of five types: crocidolite, amosite, anthrophylite, tremolite, and actinolyte. The crocidolite type of Amphiboles is thought to be the leading contributor to cancer caused by asbestos. Serpentine fibers are dangerous as well, however, and have also been linked to mesothelioma.

Some research points to the fact that inhaled asbestos fibers cause a physical irritation resulting in cancer rather than the cancer being caused by a reaction that is more chemical in nature. As fibers are inhaled through the mouth and nose they are cleared from the body by adhering to mucus in the nose, throat and airways and then get expelled by coughing or swallowing. The Amphibole fibers (long and thin) do not clear as easily and it is therefore thought that they can embed into the lining of the lungs and chest and result in mesothelioma.

Asbestosis (scar tissue in the lungs) or lung cancer can also be caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. In fact, people exposed to asbestos are seven times more likely to develop lung cancer over the general public. Workers who sustain high levels of asbestos exposure are more likely to die from asbestosis, lung cancer or mesothelioma than any other disease. It is also believed that the action of coughing up and swallowing asbestos could contribute to a form of mesothelioma originating in the abdomen called peritoneal mesothelioma. Mesothelioma has been found to exist in other organs of the body as well such as the larynx, pancreas and colon, but those instances are extremely limited compared to lung cancer incidents.

The chance of developing mesothelioma is in direct proportion to the duration and amount of asbestos exposure that an individual sustains. Those who are exposed to high levels of asbestos at a young age, for long periods of time have a greater risk of being diagnosed with mesothelioma than those who have short, low level exposure. Another important consideration is that Mesothelioma can take a long time to manifest. Often, twenty to forty years can elapse from the time of exposure to diagnosis. Genetic factors can also play a role which explains why not everyone exposed to asbestos develops and asbestos related disease.

Radiation

Thorium dioxide (Thorotrast), a substance used in x-ray tests in the past has reported links to pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma. The use of Thorotrast has been discontinued for many years due to this discovery.

Zeolite

Some mesothelioma cases in the Anatoli region within Turkey have been linked to Zeolite, a silica based mineral with chemical properties similar to asbestos found in the soil there.

Simian Virus 40 (SV40)

Some scientists have found the simian virus 40 (SV30) in mesothelioma cells from humans and have been able to create mesothelioma in animals with the virus. The relationship between this virus and mesothelioma is still unclear, however, and further research is being conducted to gain clarity on this potential link.

Tobacco

Smoking alone is not linked to mesothelioma, but smokers who are exposed to asbestos have a much higher chance of developing lung cancer (as much as fifty to ninety percent higher). Research indicates that lung cancer is the leading cause of death among asbestos workers.

Source : National Cancer Institute - Fact Sheets: Risk Factors and Possible Causes
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk

Cell Types of Mesothelioma

2009-11-19T04:35:00.000-08:00

Malignant mesothelioma can also be classified by different cancer cell types, each of which tends to behave differently. There are three classifications assigned to mesothelioma cell types.

Epithelial Mesothelioma is the most common cell type and accounts for approximately 50-75% percent of all diagnosed cases each year. These cells are uniform in shape, with an elongated pattern that makes them easily distinguishable when viewed under high magnification. These cancers are adenocarcinomas, malignancies which are more commonly associated with pure lung cancers as opposed to cancers of the mesothelium.

Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is a less common cell type, accounting for between 7 and 20% of diagnosed cases each year. These cells grow forth out of supportive structures, such as muscles and bones.

Biphasic mesotheliomas are those with a mix of epithelial and sarcomatoid cell types. Treatment options do not vary greatly between cell types, but often sarcomatoid mesotheliomas are more difficult to treat as a result of the surrounding affected tissues from which they spread.

Thoracoscopy and the use of special stains can be helpful in identifying cellular classifications, though obtaining adequate tissue samples often require more invasive surgeries.

Source : Mesothelioma

Exposure of Asbestos

2009-11-18T18:52:00.000-08:00

1. What is asbestos?

�Asbestos� is the name given to a group of minerals that occur naturally as bundles of fibers which can be separated into thin threads. These fibers are not affected by heat or chemicals and do not conduct electricity. For these reasons, asbestos has been widely used in many industries. Four types of asbestos have been used commercially:
* Chrysotile, or white asbestos;
* Crocidolite, or blue asbestos;
* Amosite, which usually has brown fibers; and
* Anthophyllite, which usually has gray fibers.
Chrysotile asbestos, with its curly fibers, is in the serpentine family of minerals. The other types of asbestos, which all have rod-like fibers, are known as amphiboles.
Asbestos fiber masses tend to break easily into a dust composed of tiny particles that can float in the air and stick to clothes. The fibers may be easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause serious health problems.
2. How is asbestos used?
Asbestos was mined and used commercially in North America beginning in the late 1800s. Its use increased greatly during World War II. Since then, it has been used in many industries. For example, the building and construction industry has used it for strengthening cement and plastics as well as for insulation, fireproofing, and sound absorption. The shipbuilding industry has used asbestos to insulate boilers, steampipes, and hot water pipes. The automotive industry uses asbestos in vehicle brakeshoes and clutch pads. More than 5,000 products contain or
have contained asbestos. Some of them are listed below:
* Asbestos cement sheet and pipe products used for water supply and sewage piping, roofing and siding, casings for electrical wires, fire protection material, electrical switchboards and components, and residential and industrial building materials;
* Friction products, such as clutch facings, brake linings for automobiles, gaskets, and industrial friction materials;
* Products containing asbestos paper, such as table pads and heat-protective mats, heat and electrical wire insulation, industrial filters for beverages, and underlying material for sheet flooring;
* Asbestos textile products, such as packing components, roofing materials, and heat- and fire-resistant fabrics (including blankets and curtains); and
* Other products, including ceiling and floor tile; gaskets and packings; paints, coatings, and adhesives; caulking and patching tape; artificial ashes and embers for use in gas-fired fireplaces; plastics; vermiculite-containing consumer garden products; and some talc-containing crayons.
In the late 1970s, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) banned the use of asbestos in wallboard patching compounds and gas fireplaces because the asbestos fibers in these products could be released into the environment during use. Additionally, asbestos was voluntarily withdrawn by manufacturers of electric hair dryers. In 1989, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned all new uses of asbestos; uses established prior to 1989 are still allowed. The EPA has established regulations that require school systems to inspect for damaged asbestos and to eliminate or reduce the exposure to occupants by removing the asbestos or encasing it. In June 2000, the CPSC concluded that the risk of children�s exposure to asbestos fibers in crayons was extremely low. However, the U.S. manufacturers of these crayons agreed to reformulate their products within a year. In August 2000, the EPA recommended that consumers reduce possible asbestos exposure from vermiculite-containing garden products by limiting the amount of dust produced during use. The EPA suggested that consumers use vermiculite outdoors or in a well-ventilated area; keep vermiculite damp while using it; avoid bringing dust from vermiculite use into the home on clothing; and use premixed potting soil, which is less likely to generate dust.
The regulations described above and other actions, coupled with widespread public concern about the hazards of asbestos, have resulted in a significant annual decline in U.S. use of asbestos: Domestic consumption of asbestos amounted to about 719,000 metric tons in 1973, but it had dropped to about 9,000 metric tons by 2002. Asbestos is currently used most frequently in gaskets and in roofing and friction products.
3. What are the health hazards of exposure to asbestos?
Exposure to asbestos may increase the risk of several serious diseases:
* Asbestosis; a chronic lung ailment that can produce shortness of breath, coughing, and permanent lung damage;
* Lung cancer;
* Mesothelioma; a relatively rare cancer of the thin membranes that line the chest and abdomen; and
* Other cancers, such as those of the larynx, oropharynx, gastrointestinal tract, and kidney.
4. Who is at risk?
Nearly everyone is exposed to asbestos at some time during their life. However, most people do not become ill from their exposure. People who become ill from asbestos are usually those who are exposed to it on a regular basis, most often in a job where they work directly with the material or through substantial environmental contact.
Since the early 1940s, millions of American workers have been exposed to asbestos. Health hazards from asbestos fibers have been recognized in workers exposed in shipbuilding trades, asbestos mining and milling, manufacturing of asbestos textiles and other asbestos products, insulation work in the construction and building trades, brake repair, and a variety of other trades. Demolition workers, drywall removers, and firefighters also may be exposed to asbestos fibers. As a result of Government regulations and improved work practices, today�s workers (those without previous exposure) are likely to face smaller risks than did those exposed in the past.
Although it is known that the risk to workers increases with heavier exposure and longer exposure time, investigators have found asbestos-related diseases in individuals with only brief exposures. Generally, those who develop asbestos-related diseases show no signs of illness for a long time after their first exposure. It can take from 10 to 40 years for symptoms of an asbestos-related condition to appear.
There is some evidence that family members of workers heavily exposed to asbestos face an increased risk of developing mesothelioma. This risk is thought to result from exposure to asbestos fibers brought into the home on the shoes, clothing, skin, and hair of workers. This type of exposure is called paraoccupational exposure. To decrease these exposures, people exposed to asbestos at work are required to shower and change their clothing before leaving the workplace.
5. How great is the risk?
Not all workers exposed to asbestos will develop diseases related to their exposure. The risk of developing asbestos-related diseases varies with the type of industry in which the exposure occurred and with the extent of the exposure. Asbestos that is bonded into finished products such as walls and tiles poses no risk to health as long as it is not damaged or disturbed (for example, by sawing or drilling) in such a way as to release fibers into the air. When asbestos fibers are set free and inhaled, however, exposed individuals are at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease.
In addition, different types of asbestos fibers may be associated with different health risks. For example, results of several studies suggest that amphibole forms of asbestos may be more harmful than chrysotile, particularly for mesothelioma. Even so, no fiber type can be considered harmless, and people working with asbestos should always take proper safety precautions to limit exposure.
6. How does smoking affect risk?
Many studies have shown that the combination of smoking and asbestos exposure is particularly hazardous. Smokers who are also exposed to asbestos have a greatly increased risk of lung cancer. However, smoking combined with asbestos exposure does not appear to increase the risk of mesothelioma.
There is evidence that quitting smoking will reduce the risk of lung cancer among asbestos-exposed workers. People who were exposed to asbestos on the job at any time during their life or who suspect they may have been exposed should not smoke. If they smoke, they should stop.
7. Who needs to be examined?
Individuals who have been exposed (or suspect they have been exposed) to asbestos fibers on the job or at home via a family contact should inform their physician of their exposure history and any symptoms. Asbestos fibers can be measured in urine, feces, mucus, or material rinsed out of the lungs. A thorough physical examination, including a chest x-ray and lung function tests, may be recommended. It is important to note that chest x-rays cannot detect asbestos fibers in the lungs, but they can help identify any lung changes resulting from asbestos exposure. Interpretation of the chest x-ray may require the help of a specialist who is experienced in reading x-rays for asbestos-related diseases. Other tests also may be necessary.
As noted earlier, the symptoms of asbestos-related diseases may not become apparent for many decades after exposure. If any of the following symptoms develop, a physical examination should be scheduled without delay:
* Shortness of breath;
* A cough or a change in cough pattern;
* Blood in the sputum (fluid) coughed up from the lungs;
* Pain in the chest or abdomen;
* Difficulty in swallowing or prolonged hoarseness; and/or
* Significant weight loss.
8. How can workers protect themselves?
Employers are required to follow regulations dealing with asbestos exposure on the job that have been issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Federal agency responsible for health and safety regulations in maritime, construction, manufacturing, and service workplaces. The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) enforces regulations related to mine safety. Workers should use all protective equipment provided by their employers and follow recommended work practices and safety procedures. For example, National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-approved respirators that fit properly should be worn by workers when required.
Workers who are concerned about asbestos exposure in the workplace should discuss the situation with other employees, their employee health and safety representative, and their employers. If necessary, OSHA can provide more information or make an inspection. Regional offices of OSHA are listed in the �United States Government� section of telephone directories� blue pages (under �Department of Labor�). Regional offices can also be located at http://www.osha-slc.gov/html/RAmap.html on the Internet, or by contacting OSHA�s national office at:
Organization:
Office of Public Affairs
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
U.S. Department of Labor
Address:
Room N�3647
200 Constitution Avenue, NW.
Washington, DC 20210
Telephone:
202�693�1999
1�800�321�6742 (1�800�321�OSHA)
TTY (for deaf or hard of hearing callers):
1�877�889�5627
Internet Web site:
http://www.osha.gov/as/opa/worker/index.html (Worker�s Page)
Mine workers may contact:
Organization:
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)
U.S. Department of Labor
Address:
23rd Floor
1100 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22209�3939
Telephone:
202�693�9400
Internet Web site:
http://www.msha.gov
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is another Federal agency that is concerned with asbestos exposure in the workplace. The Institute conducts asbestos-related research, evaluates work sites for possible health hazards, and makes exposure control recommendations. In addition, NIOSH distributes publications on the health effects of asbestos exposure and can suggest additional sources of information. NIOSH can be contacted at:
Organization:
Information Resources Branch
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
Address:
Robert A. Taft Laboratories
Mailstop C�18
4676 Columbia Parkway
Cincinnati, OH 45226�1998
Telephone:
1�800�356�4674 (1�800�35�NIOSH)
E-mail:
eidtechinfo@cdc.gov
Internet Web site:
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh
9. Will the Government provide examinations and treatment for asbestos-related conditions? What about insurance coverage?
Medical services related to asbestos exposure are available through the Government for certain groups of eligible individuals. In general, individuals must pay for their own medical services unless they are covered by private or Government health insurance. Some people with symptoms of asbestos-related illness may be eligible for Medicare coverage. Information about benefits is available from the Medicare office serving each state. For the telephone number of the nearest office, call toll-free 1�800�633�4227 (1�800�MEDICARE) or visit http://www.medicare.gov on the Internet.
People with asbestos-related diseases also may qualify for financial help, including medical payments, under state workers� compensation laws. Because eligibility requirements vary from state to state, workers should contact the workers� compensation program in their state. Contact information for the workers� compensation program in each state may be found in the blue pages of a local telephone directory or at http://www.dol.gov/esa/regs/compliance/owcp/wc.htm on the Internet.
If exposure occurred during employment with a Federal agency (military or civilian), medical expenses and other compensation may be covered by the Federal Employees� Compensation Program. Workers who are or were employed in a shipyard by a private employer may be covered under the Longshoremen and Harbor Workers� Compensation Act. Information about eligibility and how to file a claim is available from:
Organization:
Office of Worker�s Compensation Programs
Employment Standards Administration
U.S. Department of Labor
Address:
Room S�3229
200 Constitution Avenue, NW.
Washington, DC 20210
Telephone:
202�693�0040
E-mail:
OWCP-Mail@dol-esa.gov
Internet Web site:
http://www.dol.gov/esa/owcp_org.htm
Workers also may wish to contact their international union for information on other sources of medical help and insurance matters.
Eligible veterans and their dependents may receive health care at a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center. Treatment for service-connected and nonservice-connected conditions is provided. If the VA cannot provide the necessary medical care, they will arrange for enrolled veterans to receive care in their community. Information about eligibility and benefits is available from the VA Health Benefits Service Center at 1�877�222�8387 (1�877�222�VETS) or on the VA Web site at http://www.va.gov/health_benefits/ on the Internet.
10. Is there a danger of nonoccupational exposure from the environment and products contaminated with asbestos fibers?
Asbestos is so widely used that the entire population has been exposed to some degree. Air, drinking water, and a variety of consumer products all may contain small amounts of asbestos. In addition, asbestos fibers are released into the environment from natural deposits in the earth and as a result of wear and deterioration of asbestos products. Disease is unlikely to result from a single, high-level exposure, or from a short period of exposure to lower levels of asbestos.
11. What other organizations offer information related to asbestos exposure?
The organizations listed below can provide more information about asbestos exposure.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) is responsible for preventing exposure, adverse human health effects, and diminished quality of life associated with exposure to hazardous substances from waste sites, unplanned releases, and other sources of pollution present in the environment. The ATSDR provides information about asbestos and where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. The ATSDR Information Center can be reached at:
Organization:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
Division of Toxicology
Address:
Mailstop E�29
1600 Clifton Road, NE.
Atlanta, GA 30333
Telephone:
404�498�0160
1�888�422�8737 (1�888�42�ATSDR)
E-mail:
ATSDRIC@cdc.gov
Internet Web site:
http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the general public�s exposure to asbestos in buildings, drinking water, and the environment. The EPA�s Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Assistance Information Service, or TSCA Hotline, can answer questions about toxic substances, including asbestos. Printed material is available on a number of topics, particularly on controlling asbestos exposure in schools and other buildings. The EPA�s Asbestos and Vermiculite Home Page has suggestions for homeowners who suspect asbestos in their homes, lists laws and regulations applicable to asbestos, and links to the Agency�s findings on asbestos exposure at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Questions may be directed to:
Organization:
TSCA Assistance Information Service
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Address:
Mailcode 74080
401 M Street, SW.
Washington, DC 20460
Telephone:
202�554�1404
TDD: 202�554�0551
E-mail:
tsca-hotline@epa.gov
Internet Web site:
http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is responsible for the regulation of asbestos in consumer products. The CPSC maintains a toll-free information line on the potential hazards of commercial products; the telephone number is 1�800�638�2772. In addition, CPSC provides information about laboratories for asbestos testing, guidelines for repairing and removing asbestos, and general information about asbestos in the home. Publications are available from:
Organization:
Office of Information and Public Affairs
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Address:
4330 East-West Highway
Bethesda, MD 20814�4408
Telephone:
1�800�638�2772
TTY (for deaf or hard of hearing callers): 1�800�638�8270
E-mail:
info@cpsc.gov
Internet Web site:
http://www.cpsc.gov
Information about asbestos is also available from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Web site at http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2001pres/20010916a.html on the Internet. In addition, people can contact their local community or state health or environmental quality department with questions or concerns about asbestos.
Materials about cancer and how to quit smoking are available by calling the Cancer Information Service (CIS) (see below).
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (September 2001). Asbestos. Retrieved March 5, 2003, from: http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp61.html.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (November 25, 2002). Asbestos: Health Effects of Exposure to Asbestos. Retrieved March 5, 2003, from: http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/asbestos/asbestos_effects.html.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (November 2000). Case Studies in Environmental Medicine: Asbestos Toxicity. Retrieved August 21, 2003, from: http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/HEC/CSEM/asbestos/index.html.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (September 11, 2001). ToxFAQ�s for Asbestos. Retrieved March 5, 2003, from: http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/tfacts61.html.
Dollinger M, Jahan T, Rosenbaum EH, Jablons D. Mesothelioma. In: Dollinger M, Rosenbaum EH, Tempero M, Mulvilhill SJ. Everyone�s Guide to Cancer Therapy: How Cancer is Diagnosed, Treated, and Managed Day to Day. 4th ed. Kansas City, MO: Andrews McMeel Publishing, 2002.
Hillerdal G. Mesothelioma: Cases associated with non-occupational and low dose exposures. Occupational and Environmental Medicine. 1999;56(8):505�13.
National Cancer Institute. Cancer Rates and Risks, 4th ed. NIH Publication No. 96�691, 1996.
National Cancer Institute. What You Need To Know About� Cancer of the Larynx. NIH Publication No. 95�1568, 1995.
National Cancer Institute. What You Need To Know About� Kidney Cancer. NIH Publication No. 96�1569, 1996.
National Cancer Institute. What You Need To Know About� Lung Cancer. Publication No. 99�1553, 1999.
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (August 14, 2000). �Second-hand� Asbestos. Retrieved March 5, 2003, from: http://www.niehs.nih.gov/external/faq/asbestos.htm.
National Toxicology Program. 10th Report on Carcinogens. Research Triangle Park (NC): National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Public Health Service, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2002. Available online at http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/roc/toc10.html.
Ullrich RL. Etiology of cancer: Physical factors. In: DeVita VT Jr., Hellman S, Rosenberg SA. Cancer: Principles and Practice of Oncology. Vol. 1 and 2. 6th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2001.
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (June 13, 2000). CPSC Releases Test Results on Crayons. Retrieved March 5, 2003, from: http://www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PREREL/prhtml00/00123.html.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (January 6, 2000). Asbestos Containing Materials. Retrieved March 5, 2003, from: http://www.epa.gov/earth1r6/6pd/asbestos/asbmatl.htm.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (November 8, 2000). Asbestos in Your Home. Retrieved March 5, 2003, from: http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/ashome.html.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (June 14, 2001). The Asbestos Informer. Retrieved March 5, 2003, from: http://www.epa.gov/region04/air/asbestos/inform.htm.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (August 2000). Sampling and Analysis of Consumer Garden Products That Contain Vermiculite. Retrieved March 5, 2003, from: http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/vermiculite.pdf.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (August 2000). Fact Sheet: Asbestos-Contaminated Vermiculite. Retrieved June 25, 2003, from http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/vermfacts.pdf.
U.S. Geological Survey (March 2001). Some Facts About Asbestos. Retrieved March 5, 2003 from: http://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/fs012-01/.
Virta, RL. Asbestos. Mineral Commodity Summaries. U.S. Geological Survey Minerals Information. Retrieved March 5, 2003, from: http://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/asbestos/070303.pdf.
# # #
Sources of National Cancer Institute Information
Cancer Information Service
Toll-free: 1�800�4�CANCER (1�800�422�6237)
TTY (for deaf and hard of hearing callers): 1�800�332�8615
NCI Online
Internet
Use http://www.cancer.gov to reach NCI�s Web site.
LiveHelp
Cancer Information Specialists offer online assistance through the LiveHelp link (https://cissecure.nci.nih.gov/livehelp/welcome.asp) on the NCI�s Website
Source: National Cancer Institute

What is Asbestosis ?

2009-11-18T18:40:00.000-08:00

Asbestosis is a progressive and irreversible lung condition that typically leads to subsequent respiratory disability. Please click on the following links to find out more about the asbestos lung condition Asbestosis.

Asbestosis is a lung condition, often referred to as a �diffuse pulmonary fibrosis� which results from the inhalation of asbestos fibers. It is one of a number of diseases categorized as occupational lung disease or environmental lung disease. A unique aspect of asbestosis that distinguishes it from other fibrotic diseases (such as silicosis) is the presence of asbestos bodies and fibers in the lung tissue. Additionally, asbestos bodies and fibers have been detected in small numbers beyond the lung: in tonsils, thoracic and abdominal lymph nodes, pleura, peritoneum, liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, small and large intestines, esophagus and stomach.

How Did I Get Asbestosis?

Asbestos exposure results from people inhaling fibers that are in the air when they breathe. The people with the heaviest risk of exposure to asbestos are those who work directly with the mineral, whether is mining or processing it, during production of asbestos-containing products, or during installation of asbestos insulation.

Family members of asbestos workers are also at risk of inhaling high doses of asbestos fibers. Every member of the household can become exposed to asbestos by coming in contact with and inhaling asbestos fibers that are unknowingly carried home from work on their family member�s clothing.

Exposure to building materials that contain asbestos, specifically in older building is also a concern. If over a period of time insulation material, floor or ceiling tiles start to decompose, asbestos fibers can become airborne and may pose a serious health threat. In this type of situation, asbestos fibers tend to create a dust composed of tiny particles that can float in the air. However, as long as the material is not damaged or disturbed, such as remodeling or drilling, then the asbestos fibers will not be release into the air and therefore will not pose a threat to human health.

Asbestos contamination can also result from ingesting contaminated food or liquids. It can also be detected in the water supply as well as in the air. Asbestos may be released into the water through erosion or natural deposits, corrosion from asbestos-cement pipes, and disintegration of roofing materials containing asbestos that are then transported into the sewers.

What Are The Clinical Signs Of Asbestosis?

Clinical presentation of this disease may include the following:

* Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
-rarely occurs before a decade of exposure
-appears first only upon exertion and subsequently occurs at rest
* Dry cough
-dry and troublesome cough, perhaps associated with chest pain
* X-Ray changes
-generally beginning with irregular opacities at the bases of the lungs, perhaps extending into the upper zones gradually
* Pulmonary function deficiencies
-typically a pulmonary function test reveals a restrictive lung disease pattern
-there may be a pulmonary function loss before x-ray changes become evident

Other more advanced symptoms of this disease include clubbing of the fingers (increased thickness of the digits and curvature of the nails) and cor pulmonale. Medical monitoring for radiologic changes is key, as persons with asbestosis have an increased risk of developing a malignancy.

By : Mirg

Asbestos Cancer

2009-11-17T05:40:00.000-08:00

A prominent mineral asbestos greatly in many modern manufacturing business. It is agreed that the ore is used for building and all kinds of other projects. Ore were also become a health hazard. The cause of the cancer asbestos cancer or entry. This is a delicate situation, many industries are not understanding the harmful effects of asbestos. When the employee development, they asbestos cancer for legal proceedings. These litigation ran into millions, in order to prevent possible circumstances, the company has to invest for its employees appropriate protective equipment with asbestos work.

Every inch of the human body is composed of cells. These cells are copying the replay. This kind of cell replication occurred in the process of the main share. As long as cell replication process control, human organs, including will resume normal function. When a cell replication, so it becomes abnormal condition called to cancer. Since mesothelioma is irregular growth by cells in the area of cells, causing the asbestos cancer mesothelioma. This factor, the abnormal growth of cells is still mysterious. mesothelioma

Have certain differences between cancer and other normal mesothelioma cancer. Since mesothelioma can find covering almost all major organs such as the heart, lungs and cancer of the body can be. Secondly, it is difficult to diagnose this type of cancer. Employees complain about physical pain, but family members work related fatigue, ignore it and fatigue. It is in the final stages, that her cancer patients with the entry. You may already know this fact � this is a threshold, patients must undergo treatment during the procedure.meso-info.net

Once this period is gone, the patient�s cancer may not respond to your treatment. Allegedly, fine powder, inhaled asbestos, will lead to cancer mesothelioma. The importance of this layer can never be underestimated. The protective layer is known and protect its regular lubrication authority from the influence and suddenly. This form of treatment of cancer, but only a small percentage popularization of treatment by the reaction of success.

Adhere to effective protective measures, one is with asbestos. Cancer may affect a person, smoking, he may not know it. The employee training about the disease, for they provide sufficient information is the first step, by our company in order to eliminate to this situation. It is discouraging to find even many employers know the situation, cancer progression in our country entry. Many people, because life is at stake in this condition and employers seem to ignore the situation.

By : Meso Info

Asbestos and Mesothelioma Cancer

2009-11-17T05:30:00.000-08:00

Smoking is a form of cancer in film (called mesothelium), lung, chest, abdomen lining, sometimes torn. Although rare, mesothelioma symptoms strike over 200 people each year in the United States. Most cases is directly linked to entry asbestos exposure.

Due to long-term incubation period of the average age of the patients in the entry of 50-70 years old. Most people because of smoking affects one in industry contacts asbestine high print. Mesothelioma symptoms include respiratory problems, shortness of breath, cough and pneumonia. Other mesothelioma symptoms including abdominal swelling, and weight. In some mesothelioma symptoms mesothelioma is quite low, patient, make it difficult to mesothelioma doctors diagnose.

The doctor specializes in research and treatment, the entry of mesothelioma of cancer.

Mesothelioma (or cancer mesothelium) is a kind of disease, deformity, no control cell replication. These cells in mesothelioma invasion and damage tissues and organs. Mesothelioma cancer cells to spread to internal body, causing the leading cause of death.

Treatment mesothelioma clinical trials, test and smoking
There are many mesothelioma treatments. Treatment includes surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy and mesothelioma treatments depends on the patient�s age, health and the stage of cancer. There has been much mesothelioma research in the past two years to find new treatments. Click here to find out more about mesothelioma processing technology.

Through the study, the national cancer institute entry test and clinical trials � mesothelioma is to find new treatments. Because of the increasing number of cases in the United States, the two countries mesothelioma government-sponsored research mesothelioma increase. Mesothelioma research and clinical trials are successful in developing new technology to fight cancer and prospects of more advanced treatment mesothelioma is bright.

Surgical treatment is one of the most common malignant mesothelioma. Organization and lining by mesothelioma is doctor, may also include pulmonary even the diaphragm.

Another method is to use radiation therapy mesothelioma higher-energy x-rays, kill cancer cells. Radiation can in the body.

The third mesothelioma chemotherapy treatment. Through the tablets or drugs through the needle, chemotherapy drugs are used to kill cancer cells.

A new method called mesothelioma treatments photodynamic therapy. In this treatment, light and drugs are used to kill cancer cells in the early surgery mesothelioma chest. Although there are many treatment and drug treatment, doctors have mesothelioma lost against this fatal disease. Most mesothelioma treatments involve ancient technology, combined with different drug cocktails. However, in most cases, these mesothelioma treatments has many side effects including organ damage, nausea, increase in heart failure, etc. In order to find a more effective treatment or therapy in numerous mesothelioma is clinical trials are throughout the country. We hope that one day will erradicate mesothelioma treatments mesothelioma cancer and asbestosis.

By : Mesoinfo

The History of Mesothelioma

2009-11-17T05:16:00.000-08:00

Smoking is a rare type of cancer, has been proved to be caused by almost always inhaled asbestos particles. Mesothelioma browbeating, usually in a man�s body spread quickly once it�s development. Therefore, when it was found in a man�s body, it usually spread and positive intruder vital organs and tissue in other areas � � may be in just a few months. Treatment of patients, general won�t face entry of a very active long-term prognosis.

Mesothelioma appeared in the form of cancer. Tumor will appear in any place, or in any organ, have mesothelium coverage. Sometimes in tumor detection, determined to be benign, or explanation. This tumor is usually treated explanation, but not in the same way as cancerous.

If a person has to expose tumors or inhaled Mesothelioma of asbestos particles at any time, and in their lives, or will be, malignant cancer. The only certain way to decide whether it is benign or malignant Mesothelioma is a biopsy.

Once a malignant Mesothelioma tumor was detected, testing and determination are malignant, other malignant tumors may appear in other organs. This type of �the dissemination�, refers to the tumor metastasis. If pleural Mesothelioma is found in the tumor may, for example, began to appear on the other place than the original site. There is no way to determine which organs in tumor will pop up after the initial diagnosis.

There are several types of malignant mesothelioma, but they are three of the most common. The most common of these three called �epithelium.� Fortunately, the epithelium, is a form of optimal therapeutic mesothelioma responds to. All three types of general are treated equally surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

In most cases, the malignant Mesothelioma was found in a man�s chest. The second most common cancer diagnosis of local exist when the belly. The most common place was found in the original tumor, that is in the heart.
When the tumor, they are called �in the chest and rib Mesotheliomas� when they found in the abdomen, they are called �, and �Mesotheliomas peritoneal when they found in the heart, they are called�, the pericardial Mesotheliomas.�

This mesothelium is covered inside (two layers, and allow them to sit organs to other organs and tissue without friction or causing friction and influence each other mutually. In other words, the outer membrane provide mesothelium organs and lubricating fluid, so that they can each side sliding. The heart and lungs, for example, and constantly expand and contract, and mesothelium allow these organs without any kinds of moving membrane friction.

According to the position, or organ, it is mesothelium around, it is to point to by different names. When mesothelium mentioned throughout the country, in a person�s abdominal organs, mesothelium called �, peritoneal.� This mesothelium coverage in the chest organs or lung pleural cried, �yes�. Mesothelium membrane cover heart is called �package�.

When a man began to develop, mesothelium Mesothelioma tumor growth. Tumor formation and peritoneal pleural, and/or mesothelium pericardium. When the tumor formation, this is a signal that these cells differentiate the mesothelium control and the normal order of them. Once you begin, it usually cancer has spread to the rest of the body mesothelium area, it also can be transferred to the surrounding tissues and organs.

By Mesoinfo

Treatment and Symptoms of Mesothelioma

2009-11-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

Mesothelioma is considered as the most deadly type of cancer caused by inhaling asbestos particles floating in the air. Most of the people who directly or sometimes indirectly exposed to asbestos contact this disease. This affects the mesothelium which is a protective layer of most internal organs in the body. Develop malignant cells in the mesothelium of heart, lungs or stomach. The mesothelium of the chest cavity and lungs is known as the pleura, the lining of the stomach called the peritoneum, and pericardium is the lining of the heart. There are provisions in the law for compensation Mesothelioma patients and special attorney called asbestos lawyers assist patients in their legal pursuit.

Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma Symptoms occur in the last stage of curing so that becomes very difficult. Symptoms can be seen after long exposure to asbestos that may be a long gap of twenty to fifty years. The main symptom is shortness of breath due to accumulation of fluid in the chest, cough, pain in the chest; blood may also appear with a cough or spit. These symptoms can be seen if the pleura or pericardium affected. If the peritoneum is affected patients will develop a loss of appetite, abdominal pain, weight loss, intestinal problems, anemia and fatigue. Patients may also suffer from frequent fevers.

Treatment of Mesothelioma
Effective treatment of this disease depends on several factors such as where the cancer stage has been detected, what is the age of the patient, how many cancer cells has been circulated and the general health condition of patients, that is, whether he is suffering from another disease or not. Have observed that chemotherapy is the only treatment available for these patients. Use of drugs, chemicals or drugs in a systematic way to eradicate cancer cells. The drug is injected either directly in the body or given in pill form.
Other forms of immunotherapy treatment, surgery and radiation in which malignant cells are destroyed so they do not spread to other parts of the body. In severe cases of many tumors can be detected in the affected area for the first of these doctors surgically remove the tumor and then the forms of treatment to follow.
The patient must decide whether he will undergo a painful treatment or persist for six to twelve months without treatment.

By Robby Morton

The Danger of Mesothelioma

2009-11-16T20:23:00.000-08:00

Mesothelioma is a serious disease with a range of survival time on average about one year. What is alarming about this disease is that Mesothelioma is often in an advanced stage although early recognition of symptoms and diagnosis of cancer. On the lighter side, Mesothelioma is a relatively rare disease. In the United States alone, there are about 2,000 to 3,000 new cases of documented illness each year.

According to the National Cancer Institute, Mesothelioma affects men more frequently than women. Besides in the case of ethnicity, the disease is not observed among African Americans than among Caucasians.

So how does someone get Mesothelioma?

Most people who suffer from this disease are people who usually work in jobs where there is exposure to asbestos particles. Because this is a disease involving asbestos affected workers, 70 to 80 percent of Mesothelioma cases of people who have a history of asbestos exposure. However, some people who do not have a history of asbestos exposure have been reported as well.

Let us focus on the risks of asbestos. Asbestos is a group of minerals commonly used in industrial products. Examples of these products are cement, textiles and brakes. As asbestos particles are inhaled or taken in, it can cause serious health problems. Asbestos also has proven to worsen the risk of other serious diseases such as Asbestosis, lung cancer, larynx and kidney.

What are the symptoms of Mesothelioma?

As stated above, the early recognition of symptoms of this disease does not mean that in the early stages. Symptoms may only appear after 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. The position of these symptoms are chest pain, shortness of breath, weight loss and abdominal pain significantly. In addition, if you already suffer from other parts of the body, symptoms may include unusual anemia, fever and blood clotting disorders.

Legal issues Mesothelioma

Only a small part of lawsuits related to asbestos in the U.S. that connected to Mesothelioma. However, if you or your loved ones suffering from this terrible disease and you may have a legitimate cause of action against the employer for negligence, you should find a lawyer who has a good reputation who can explain your rights. Getting a good Mesothelioma lawyer who handled the case was important as the necessary legal action should be filed before the expiration of the statute of limitations.

So before the law closes the door on you and your loved ones Mesothelioma ensure that the claim was filed as a claim must be filed within a certain time period. This time period usually begins when someone has been diagnosed with Mesothelioma and the main cause is exposure to asbestos.

Source : Pramedia

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

2009-11-16T05:21:00.000-08:00

Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath, cough, and pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleural space are often symptoms of pleural mesothelioma.

Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss and cachexia, abdominal swelling and pain due to ascites (a buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity). Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever. If the cancer has spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.

These symptoms may be caused by mesothelioma or by other, less serious conditions.

Mesothelioma that affects the pleura can cause these signs and symptoms:

* chest wall pain

* pleural effusion, or fluid surrounding the lung

* shortness of breath

* fatigue or anemia

* wheezing, hoarseness, or cough

* blood in the sputum (fluid) coughed up

In severe cases, the person may have many tumor masses. The individual may develop a pneumothorax, or collapse of the lung. The disease may metastasize, or spread, to other parts of the body.

Tumors that affect the abdominal cavity often do not cause symptoms until they are at a late stage. Symptoms include:

* abdominal pain

* ascites, or an abnormal buildup of fluid in the abdomen

* a mass in the abdomen

* problems with bowel function

* weight loss

In severe cases of the disease, the following signs and symptoms may be present:

* blood clots in the veins, which may cause thrombophlebitis

* disseminated intravascular coagulation, a disorder causing severe bleeding in many body organs

* jaundice, or yellowing of the eyes and skin

* low blood sugar level

* pleural effusion

* pulmonary emboli, or blood clots in the arteries of the lungs

* severe ascites

A mesothelioma does not usually spread to the bone, brain, or adrenal glands. Pleural tumors are usually found only on one side of the lungs.

By Fitri

Pleural Mesothelioma

2009-08-06T20:12:00.000-07:00

Nearly 75 percent of mesotheliomas are initiated in the chest and are called pleural mesotheliomas. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of this devastating disease. This occurs when asbestos fibers enter the pleura, which is the membrane that covers the lungs, and results in the formation of malignant cells. The people most at risk of developing this rare form of cancer are construction workers who have been exposed to asbestos fibers for extended periods of time, their families, who are exposed to the asbestos fibers that collect on the clothes of the workers, and people who live or work in buildings that are insulated with asbestos material.
The risk of developing malignant pleural mesothelioma depends on several factors, such as the length of time the person has been exposed, and the nature of the asbestos fibers involved as well as the different kinds of industries. Other factors can also contribute to onset of pleural mesothelioma.
The symptoms at the initial stage can resemble that of pneumonia. When malignant mesothelioma originates in the pleural cavity, the first symptom may be a mild pain in the chest or back. When malignant pleural mesothelioma spreads, organs and tissues in the immediate area can be affected. It grows into the chest wall, muscles and ribs. The pain changes from mild, general and episodic to severe, localized and chronic as the disease progresses. Severe pain may not respond to oral doses, intravenous infusions, or intramuscular injections of analgesics or narcotics.
There are at least two other forms of mesothelioma, but pleural mesothelioma responds best to treatment. Unfortunately, the fatality rate remains high. However, extensive research is going on to alleviate the pain of mesothelioma sufferers, develop a vaccine, and treat the progression of the cancer.

Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma

2009-08-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a cancer of the thin layer of tissue that lines the chest and lungs. It is a rare form of cancer that is mostly associated with exposure to asbestos. Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a fast-moving cancer with a median survival time of between one and two years.
The majority of mesotheliomas are associated with asbestos exposure. Asbestos was used widely in the United States for insulation, and while awareness of its harmful effects is increasing, asbestos can still be found in older buildings. People who work in industries using asbestos in some form, such as insulation manufacturers, insulation workers, and ship builders, may be at increased risk to develop mesotheliomas. The time between exposure and development of a cancer may be decades, which is why it is usually diagnosed in older people. More men than women get this type of cancer. Close contacts of people who have been exposed to asbestos, such as family members, may also be at risk.
Some symptoms of this cancer are increasing breathlessness, pain in the chest or under the ribcage, an abdominal lump or swelling, fever and unexplained weight loss. Imaging tests like a CT scan may show a collection of fluid in the pleural cavity of the chest. Pleural tissue and fluid is also tested to detect cancerous cells and certain chemicals that can rule out a diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma.
Depending on the extent of spread of cancer, malignant pleural mesotheliomas are conventionally treated with some combination of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery to remove as much of the cancer as possible. Aggressive treatment strategies are the norm, though the exact treatment depends on how far the cancer has spread. A number of experimental treatments are currently being evaluated in clinical trials.

Asbestos - The Difference Between Lung Cancer and Mesothelioma

2009-08-04T07:13:00.000-07:00

Asbestos has been shown to cause a host of health problems for those who inhale it. As such, it starts off as a respiratory disease. Unfortunately, it can develop well beyond that. This evolution has caused a massive amount of confusion to the point that two results, Mesothelioma and lung cancer, are often used interchangeably when they should not be.
Asbestos exposure can often lead to cancer in the person exposed if the fibers of the mineral in question are breathed into the lungs. Any form of cancer is simply bad news. That being said, there are different types and each comes with its own issues, treatments and potential outcomes. With asbestos exposure, the two most common forms of cancer are Mesothelioma and lung cancer. They are distinct health problems. Let's take a closer look.
Lung cancer obviously impacts the condition of your lungs. Lungs are the biomechanism we use when breathing. They introduce oxygen into our body and expel carbon dioxide and other minor gases like nitrogen. Breathing in air from the environment can be hazardous. In the case of asbestos, we can breathe in tiny fibers of minerals in asbestos forms. Once in our lungs, they are very hard to get out. Slowly, they can cause damage to the structure of the lung material. Scarring, known as asbestosis, and tumors can occur. The tumors can grow and are known as lung cancer. There are various forms of lung cancer, and that discussion is beyond the scope of this article.
Mesothelioma is often talked about as though it is a form of lung cancer. It is not. To understand this form of cancer, one has to first understand what the mesothelium is. The mesothelium is with us from birth. It is a layer of cells that lines the internal organs and areas of the body. It lines the lungs. It lines the abdomen. It lines areas of the heart. The purpose of the mesothelium is much like oil in a car engine - it acts as a lubricating surface that allows the organs in the body to move without friction. Without the mesothelium, bending over would be difficult and probably a very painful proposition.
Mesothelioma is a cancer that occurs in this lining. It is caused by asbestos being inhaled into the lungs. From their, the asbestos fibers are absorbed into the body. How exactly they get into the mesothelium is unknown, but they clearly due. Mesothelioma can spread throughout the entire body core or remain in a particular area. If caught very early, treatment options exist. If caught late, it is rarely survived.
So, how do Mesothelioma and lung cancer get confused when it comes to asbestos exposure? Well, Mesothelioma often occurs in the mesothelium lining around the lungs. Although not technically lung cancer, once can see how the two would get confused. Still, it is important to remember that each is unique and calls for different treatments.