Mosethelioma

1. What exactly is Mesothelioma?

One of the most frequently asked questions upon diagnosis, malignant mesothelioma is a cancer that occurs in several parts of the body after long-term exposure to asbestos, and in some instances, short exposure. The most typical type of mesothelioma is lung-related cancer. However, mesothelioma can affect several parts of the body, including the heart, abdomen, and more.

In most cases, people affected by mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos while on the job and/or via products that contain asbestos. Companies who supplied asbestos and asbestos-containing products are usually liable for damages if no warnings were given regarding their products. As a result, several asbestos trust funds have been set up to compensate people who are suffering from mesothelioma due to the negligence of others. Over $30 billion has been set aside in trust funds. If you have mesothelioma, contact us today and let us help you win the compensation you deserve.

Stages of Mesothelioma

When patients are diagnosed with mesothelioma, physicians place the disease into different stages according to its development. This allows doctors to understand how advanced the cancer is and in turn decide what the patient’s prognosis is. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), there are currently four stages of mesothelioma, with the latter stages being the most severe.

A staging system known as the TNM Classification of Malignant Tumors (TNM) was created in the 1990s’ to help doctors in evaluating which stage of disease the mesothelioma patient is in. Although there are other accepted staging systems, the TNM staging system is the most widely accepted and used by mesothelioma doctors. It helps classify the following stages:

Stage I: Localized

Stage I is the first stage of mesothelioma. It’s broken up into either Stage IA or Stage IB. At this point, the cancer is still localized and patients have the best chances of successful treatment.

Stage IA is diagnosed when the cancer is located in either the lining of one side of the chest wall or the lining of the chest cavity, between the lungs. At this stage, the cancer has not yet spread from these points in the body.

Stage IB is diagnosed when the cancer is found in both the lining of the chest walls as well as the lining of the chest cavity. Again, the cancer has not yet spread from these points.

Stage II: The First Advanced Stage

When patients are in Stage II, the cancer is no longer localized and they are now in the first phase of the advanced stage of the disease. During this stage, the cancer is not only in the lining of the chest wall and chest cavity, but also in the lining that protects the lungs and the diaphragm. Keep in mind, however, that the cancer can be in the lining of either the lungs, the lining of the diaphragm, or both.

Stage III: Advanced

During Stage III, cancer is found in the lining of one side of the chest wall, and may have also spread to the the chest cavity lining, the diaphragm lining, and the lung lining. Cancer has now spread to the lymph nodes, close to the victim’s esophagus and trachea.

Stage IV: Advanced

Stage IV is the most advanced stage of the disease and the cancer can no longer be removed. During this stage, the cancer is found in one or more of the following areas in the body:

    The peritoneum via the diaphragm

    Chest tissue lining

    Chest walls

    Center of the chest cavity

    The spine, brain, thyroid, or prostate

    The heart muscle and/or the sac surrounding the heart

Resectable and Unresectable Cancer

As previously mentioned, the TNM stages the development of mesothelioma so that doctors will have a better understanding of the victim’s prognosis. However, when determining which treatments are best according to each stage, doctors will first figure out if the cancer is resectable or unresectable. If the tumors are resectable, they can be removed. Likewise, if the tumors cannot be removed, they are considered unresectable.

In most cases, the first three stages of mesothelioma are considered resectable. However,  there are always a few exceptions. For example, the subtype of the cancer along with how far it has grown into the body’s tissues will determine if it can be removed. Additionally, the patient’s health is taken into consideration. Unhealthy people generally are not candidates for surgery and removal.

Other Staging Charts

Although, as aforementioned, the TNM staging is the most widely-used staging systems by most physicians, other charts have also been helpful in diagnosing stages of mesothelioma, including:

The Brigham System

Created by Dr. David Sugarbaker, one the leading mesothelioma physicians at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital at Harvard, the Brigham System uses both clinical and radiological advances to find the development of the disease and the diagnosis. Similar to TNM staging, the Brigham System utilizes four stages to determine the cancer development:

Stage I: Lymph nodes are not involved during this stage and the cancer is only in the pleural area.

Stage II: The cancer is still locked in the pleural area but may have also spread to the lymph nodes.

Stage III: The cancer has now transferred into the diaphragm, structures in the thorax, or the diaphragm.

Stage IV: The cancer has spread to various parts of the body and is now considered unresectable.

The Butchart Staging System

The Butchart staging system is the original staging system used to stage pleural mesothelioma. As with other systems, the Butchart staging system classifies mesothelioma in four stages, with the final stage being the most severe. This particular staging system was created in 1979 by Dr. Eric Butchart, a cardiothoracic surgeon at the University Hospital in Wales, United Kingdom. Dr. Butchart created the staging system as a means to determine which mesothelioma patients were ideal candidates for different types of treatments. In general, patients in stage I or II were good candidates for curative treatments while patients in stage III or IV were good candidates for palliative treatments.

Stage I: The cancer is on one side of the lining of the lungs or one side of the lining of the heart.

Stage II: Tumors are now on both sides of the lining of the lungs in addition to either the chest wall, heart, or esophagus. Mesothelioma cells have also reached the lymph nodes. Radiation therapy is advised during this stage as long as the patient is healthy enough.

Stage III: Tumors have invaded either the lining of the stomach or the diaphragm. In addition, the mesothelioma cells have now made their way outside of the chest and into the lymph nodes. Dr. Butchart suggests cytotoxic drugs in combination with drainage via tubes during this stage.

Stage IV: Tumors have now transferred across the body and into the patient’s bloodstream. They can be found in several of the body organs, including the liver, brain, and even the bones. At this point, Dr. Butchart advises palliative mesothelioma treatment only as the tumors are too advanced to be removed.

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Lung cancer and smoking are quite often viewed as synonymous with each other, and there is a lot of truth in that. Tobacco’s increased the risk of developing cancer in the lungs, and this is one of the most basic harmful effects on health known.

Cigarette smoke is laden with chemicals that act as poisons for the body. When these chemicals are inhale, it enters the blood stream, from where they lead to various diseases, including cancer. Lung, of course, remains the most easily affected organ. Tobacco smoke carries over 7000 chemicals, of which 250 are known to be poisonous. 69 chemicals out of those 250 have cancer-causing properties. Let's take a look at the different ways smoking leads to cancer in the lungs:

Damage to DNA - The chemicals in cigarette smoke like nitrosamines, benzene, benzo(a)pyrene, nickel and arsenic, and polonium-210 are known to have carcinogenic properties. These chemicals damage the DNA of genes that help protect against cancer by either attaching themselves to the DNA or by interfering in cellular processes that help repair damaged DNA.

Weakening body's defence system - There are various ways through which chemicals in smoke lower the body's defence mechanism. For example, formaldehyde destroys the hair linings in the airways, which otherwise prevent foreign substances from reaching the lower respiratory tract. Smoke also suppresses the action of cells that prevent abnormal cell proliferation (or cancer). Cadmium in smoke inhibits the action of detoxifying proteins in the body.

Long-term exposure - Smokers expose themselves to high levels of toxins over the years. Even though cancer takes years to develop, the high levels of toxic substances in a smoker's body make it difficult to cope with their damaging effects. The damage to the lung's cells and their DNA accumulate over the years to turn those cells into a cancerous state.

Addictive nature of nicotine - Nicotine, the major component present in tobacco plants is actually addictive. When inhaled, it enters the lungs, transfers to the bloodstream, and reaches the brain within seconds. Nicotine in cigarettes and other products creates an addiction quite similar to drugs like cocaine. This makes it difficult for many habitual smokers to give up smoking even if s/he wants to. Habitual use over time increases the risk of cancer.

So, does quitting help - even for a long-term smoker?

The good news is, yes! Becoming smoke-free is the first step towards reducing the risk of cancer. It may not be easy and might require external help, but the health benefits far outweigh the damaging effects:

Carbon monoxide levels in blood reach back to normal within 12 hours of quitting. Lung function and circulation begin to show improvement within 12 weeks of quitting.

Staying smoke-free for 10 years reduces the risk of cancer in the lung by half of that of a smoker, along with reducing risk to others cancers as well.

The life expectancy increases no matter what age a person stops smoking; however, the benefit is more if one quits earlier.

What about a person who already has a positive lung cancer diagnosis - will it help to quit now? The answer is yes, quitting smoking during treatment helps the body to respond to therapy and recover quicker, while also reducing the risk of other infections and respiratory failure. Cancer patients who quit smoking also reduce their risk of recurrent cancer or a second cancer at a later time. Better late than never!

Credihealth is an online healthcare marketplace for finding the doctors reviews and read articles on healthcare issues, lung cancer treatment and watch doctor videos. Consumers can use this information to make well-informed decisions and get medical conditions and diseases treated in the best possible way.

Mesothelioma otherwise known as asbestos cancer has been responsible for the most number of deaths among all cancers. Mesothelioma is a serious aftereffect that results from prolonged exposure to asbestos.

People that exposed themselves to asbestos may not be aware of the danger that is taking place in their system and hence will see sudden disastrous effects in their body, particularly on the lungs. Certain cases of mesothelioma have seen to spread to the heart as well as tunica vaginalis. What most people do not know is that mesothelioma is a carcinogen and can often be neglected as it has no early dysfunctions.

As time goes on, an individual may suffer from bronchitis which will adversely lead to cancer. It has been noticed that people who suffer from mesothelioma are individuals that have been exposed to asbestos without the necessary precautions. In most cases, this has been the fault of negligence and irresponsible behavior that asbestos industries exhibit. If you are a victim of asbestos poisoning, you can take the first step and press for charges by electing a Mesothelioma Lawyer to help you out.

Mesothelioma Lawyers are well versed with the legal proceedings that are involved with personal injury cases. Most of the top personal injury law firms that deal with Mesothelioma cases have been known to provide impeccable legal assistance due to their many years of experience in the field.

If you are one of the many victims of asbestosis, it would be high time that you opt for a Mesothelioma Lawyer to help you out. It is understandable that you may not have the courage or energy to press for charges due to the circumstances of the events that have unfolded in your life, but if you believe that justice needs to be served, it is highly advised to go on a legal route.

The best of Mesothelioma Lawyers will not only help you take your matter to court, but they will ensure that justice will prevail as you desire. Irresponsible companies and industries should be sued so that others do not fall prey to the same problem. Hence, it is highly advised that you put your best foot forward and find the best of Mesothelioma Lawyers to take your case to court.

One of the biggest challenges that has been noticed among a lot of victims like yourself, is that they are not able to find a Mesothelioma Lawyer in their local area. This is where the internet comes in and provides a platform for you to find local Mesothelioma Lawyers and Personal Injury law firms.

While opting for Mesothelioma Lawyers, it is highly advised that you scout the web well so that you can find an attorney that has the best of relevant experience in handling personal injury cases and one that can guarantee you that justice will be served.

Pleural mesothelioma, known also as lung mesothelioma, is is the most commonly-diagnosed type of mesothelioma, making up around 75% of all diagnosed patients. Prognosis can be poor for mesothelioma patients, but if the disease is caught early, treatment response is more favorable, which can help extend survival rate.

Due to the way in which asbestos enters the body, the most common form of mesothelioma is found on the pleural membrane; the lining of the lungs. It is rarer than lung cancer, with about 2,500 new cases diagnosed in the United States each year.

However, it’s an extremely debilitating form of mesothelioma with low survival rates. Pleural mesothelioma, like other forms of mesothelioma,  is difficult to detect in its initial stages. It takes a long time to make its presence known as it can lay dormant in the pleural membrane. It can take up to 50 years for symptoms of mesothelioma to surface.

Additionally, its symptoms can be easily confused with common respiratory ailments such as influenza, bronchitis, or pneumonia. These symptoms often include shortness of breath, coughing, chest pains, fever, coughing up blood, difficulty in swallowing, or buildup of fluid in the chest cavity. Extreme tiredness, lack of appetite, and subsequent weight loss are other symptoms associated with the disease.

Because these symptoms can confuse physicians, the disease is usually accurately diagnosed when it has already reached a Stage 3 level of cancerous development. As the cancer progresses, the symptoms become more severe. Unfortunately the disease is commonly it its advanced stage when this occurs, rendering it difficult for physicians to entirely remove the tumors.

Prognosis

Although pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma, experts have yet to find a cure as mesothelioma as a whole is still considered a relatively new disease. Therefore, prognosis for victims is unfavorable. As with most diseases, your individual survival rate will greatly depend upon the stage of the disease and your overall health.

Pleural Mesothelioma Treatment Options

As with pericardial and peritoneal mesothelioma, there are three major treatment options for pleural mesothelioma: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. None of them can cure the cancer, but they can add months, even years, to a mesothelioma patient’s life. Many physicians will use a combination of the most popular treatments for a higher success rate.

The most invasive procedure is surgery. This form of mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs and organs which are protected by the rib cage. A surgeon has to cut through the ribs in order to reach the affected areas.

Currently, there are two types of surgical procedures: pleurectomy/decortication (the removal of the pleural lining), and the more radical extrapleural pneumonectomy (surgical resection of the affected lung and the surrounding parietal and visceral pleura).

In both cases, surgeons may take out either part of or the complete diaphragm and the pericardial sac.

In addition, one or more ribs are removed from the patient’s body as a result of these procedures. Patients must be in good physical condition in order to endure such an invasive procedure. As a result, the majority of patients in the advanced stages of lung mesothelioma typically do not qualify.

Pleural Mesothelioma Possible Side Effects of Surgery:

·         Blood clots and/or bleeding

·         Fatigue

·         Fever

·         Pneumonia

·         Lung Malfunction

Chemotherapy is less invasive than surgery and aids in reducing the size of malignant mesothelioma tumors in the pleural lining. However, since  this treatment does not cure mesothelioma; chemotherapy helps to relieve some of the symptoms and extend a patient’s life expectancy. It is also used to eliminate any additional cancerous cells left behind after surgery.

Pleural Mesothelioma Side Effects of Chemotherapy:

·         Patients can easily bleed and/or bruise because of reduced blood platelets

·         Hair loss from from the chemotherapy drugs attacking healthy hair follicle cells

·         Mouth sores and cuts

·         Nausea, which may also include episodes of vomiting

·         Low white blood cell count, which results in possible infections

·         Lack of energy and feeling lethargic

Radiation therapy, especially when applied in conjunction with extrapleural pneumonectomy surgery, is an effective form of treatment in mesothelioma cases. Radiation therapy involves the killing of cancer cells with doses of high energy rays.

This treatment is used exclusively in cases of pleural mesothelioma due to the plethora of negative side effects possible in cases of peritoneal mesothelioma. Radiation therapy can be used either to prevent cancer from returning to surgically treated areas or to slow down the cancer’s progress in cases where surgery is not a viable option. Targeted radiation treatments also help to relieve a patient’s pain.

Possible Side Effects of Radiation Therapy

·         Hair loss

·         Skin rashes and burns

·         Lethargy and fatigue

·         Vomiting

·         Diarrhea

·         Trouble with breathing, include breath shortness

·         Loss of appetite

More recently, patients have also opted for non-traditional treatments, such as yoga, meditation, acupuncture, holistic healing, and herbal remedies.

Studies have suggested that combining alternative treatments with traditional treatments will help prolong life spans by helping to build the immune system while reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Several doctors have found these forms of treatments available and even offer holistic medicines and practices at their offices.

Peritoneal mesothelioma is the 2nd most common form of mesothelioma, in which the cancer affects the lung’s lining. Treatment will depend upon the stage of the disease, but typically involves multimodal measures.

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a form of asbestos cancer that attacks the cell walls in the peritoneum; the thin membranes that lubricate and protect the abdominal cavity. Once the lining of the abdomen is attacked, it prohibit the organs in the abdominal area from working properly.

This cancer is typically classified as either “wet” or “dry.” Wet produces an abundance of nodules in the abdominal area, and has ascites present. Dry produces masses of cancerous cells, yet no ascites.

When compared with other types of cancers, mesothelioma of the peritoneum is quite rare. Only 500 people each year are diagnosed with the disease, which is around 20% of all cases of mesothelioma. However, when compared to other types of mesothelioma, it’s actually the second most common, running slightly behind the most well-known and most common form, pleural mesothelioma.

How Does Asbestos Reaches the Peritoneum

The peritoneum has two layers which includes the parietal layer and the visceral layer. The visceral layer helps protect by abdomen by covering the abdominal organs. The parietal layer protects and covers the abdominal cavity in the same manner. With so many layers, it’s difficult to understand exactly how asbestos reaches the peritoneum in the first place. Scientists, however, have theorized that this can happen in two different ways:

Since asbestos fibers are so small, they can easily be swallowed. The fibers work their way through the digestive system and slip through the layers.

Victims that inhale the asbestos fibers may get them caught in the lymphatic system.

Eventually the fibers make their way down to the peritoneal area. Once the fibers reach the peritoneum, it’s extremely difficult to get rid of them. The human body isn’t equipped to successfully eliminate the small fibers from the system and previous methods to remove them all have been rendered unsuccessful. As a result, the fibers will start to create havoc, causing severe inflammation and irritation in the abdomen. This eventually leads to cancer.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Causes

As with all other types of mesothelioma diseases, peritoneal mesothelioma is caused when a victim has had prolonged exposure to asbestos. In rare cases, short-term exposure may result in the disease. However, while inhaling asbestos is the primary reason for the majority of mesothelioma cases, victims with this type of mesothelioma can contract the disease by swallowing or ingesting asbestos fibers as well as through inhalation.

As aforementioned, asbestos was typically ingested while on job sites that used the mineral when it was popular and little was known about its devastating effects. The majority of cases stem from victims who’ve worked in steel plants, power plants, paper mills, automotive shops, and naval shipyards.

In some rarer instances, asbestos exposure can be contracted second-hand, and children and spouses can become victims as well. Simple acts of washing clothes and being in direct contact with others who work around asbestos can potentially put others at risk. Although it’s not common, it’s always a good idea to have regular medical checkups if a loved one worked around asbestos.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms

Not every person will experience the same symptoms. In addition, most symptoms will not even surface until decades after asbestos exposure. Yet, studies suggest that the following are the most common:

·         Unusual and rapid weight loss

·         Nausea with or without vomiting

·         Abdominal pain

·         Abdominal swelling

·         Diarrhea and/or constipation

·         Small lumps under the abdomen skin

·         Night sweats

·         Anemia

·         Fever

·         Inflamed, thickened peritoneum

·         Breathing difficulties

·         Fatigue and lethargy

·         Energy loss and weakness

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Treatment

Chemotherapy, along with radiation therapy, is one of the most common ways of treating peritoneal mesothelioma. Keep in mind, however, if the disease is caught while still in its early stage, physicians may be able to remove it entirely via surgery.

Unfortunately, catching the disease in its early stage is rare at this time as it typically takes decades, sometimes up to 50 years, as previously mentioned, before the first symptoms start to show up.

Surgery may still be performed during the disease’s advanced stages, but physicians almost always remove only parts of the tumor instead of removing it in its entirety. Once the disease has progressed, it is entirely too dangerous and poses too many risks to remove entirely.

For those who qualify, there are three popular surgical procedures used for late stages of the disease:

Peritonectomy: This form of surgery entails removing the lining of the abdomen in an attempt to eliminate as many cancerous cells as possible. Peritonectomy surgery is usually performed in conjunction with cytoreductive surgery.

Cytoreductive Surgery: Cytoreductive surgery is an invasive and long procedure, usually lasting up to 12 hours. Cytoreductive and peritonectomy surgery is combined so that cancerous cells can be be removed while providing the patient with as much relief as possible.

Paracentesis: Paracentesis is a form of surgery that involves removing fluid from the peritoneal area (area around the abdomen). The fluid is withdrawn using a long, hollow needle that’s inserted through the stomach. Once the fluid is collected, victims experience relief of pain and bloating. The bowels usually begin to work better, and patients find that breathing is not as difficult as before.

Chemotherapy also has different forms of procedures, including the following:

Systemic Chemotherapy: Systemic chemotherapy involves the chemotherapy entering the bloodstream intravenously. It’s most often used on patients who are experiencing widespread cancers across the body. Almost all chemotherapy treatments utilize systemic chemotherapy for peritoneal patients.

Heated Chemotherapy: With heated chemotherapy, drugs are dispensed into the patient’s abdominal area. The drug is typically heated just above the patient’s body temperature before it is administered. This form of chemotherapy is almost always used after surgery, and the heat is used to kill off any cancerous cells that were left behind. Candidates for heated chemotherapy must be in good overall physical shape.

Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is used as a prior treatment before another form of treatment is given to the patient. For example, a patient who is to undergo surgery may be given neoadjuvant chemotherapy beforehand in order to reduce the size of the cancerous tumors. Most patients start neoadjuvant chemotherapy around three months prior to surgery.

Alternative therapies are being used more frequently by peritoneal patients. Alternative therapies include a range of complementary and/or natural treatment options, including:

·         Natural medication therapy

·         Strength and healing exercises such as yoga and light pilates

·         Natural foods and plants such as red cherries, asparagus, astragalus, and any foods high in Vitamin C.

·         Acupuncture and massages

·         Aromatherapy

·         Meditation and homeopathy

·         Nerve stimulation

·         Pet therapy

·         Stress-free living, taking each day as it comes, and remaining positive

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Diagnosis consists of extracting fluid from the peritoneum. The fluid is then analyzed in order to find any asbestos fibers and malignant cells. If the dangerous cells are indeed found, further testing will be performed in order to determine if the disease is peritoneal mesothelioma.

The process of diagnosing malignant mesothelioma typically begins after a victim complains of severe pain in the chest, abdomen, and stomach area. A complete work and medical history is almost always required as misdiagnosis for this particular disease is common.

Unfortunately, the aforementioned process is timely and usually takes months to complete. The time involved with getting a proper diagnosis is only part of the issue. Most patients are on their way to the advanced stages of the disease once they seek treatment.

When the advanced stages arrives, tumors rapidly grow and expand. A lengthy diagnosis usually results in the patients reaching the late stage of the disease before treatment begins.

Prognosis

Recently, doctors have fortunately began to catch the cancer in its early stages more often than ever before.  However, the average life expectancy is still around a year. It’s imperative to remember however, that every situation is unique and patients may go on to live years longer.

Additionally, new methods of treatments are being introduced as science continues to make breakthroughs, which can potentially further expand patient lifespans in the future.

Pericardial mesothelioma is a rare and fatal form of asbestos cancer. It is the least commonly diagnosed of the various types of mesothelioma, but can also be the most damaging and the hardest to treat.

According to studies by the Texas Heart Institute Journal (THIJ), pericardial tumors of this type account for less than 10 percent of all types of mesothelioma. This means that 14 to 30 out of every million people are diagnosed each year on average.

The same study also states that in a sampling of 120 cases involving pericardial mesothelioma, three quarters of the diagnoses were made after the patients died. This illustrates the disease’s most vexing features – its slow development and insidious fashion of exhibiting symptoms which are normally indicative of other cardiopulmonary diseases – and its extremely aggressive nature.

Pericardial mesothelioma gets its name from the part of the body where it is found, the pericardium. The pericardium is the protective double-walled sac which surrounds the heart. This sac contains pericardium fluid, which protects the heart and its associated veins and arteries from external jolts or shocks.

When a mesothelioma tumor forms anywhere in the pericardial cavity, it will, over a long period of  time, grow, become malignant, and eventually metastasize to other parts of the chest and abdomen. This cancer will eventually affect the cardiovascular system once it develops, with devastating consequences to the heart and lungs.

Pericardial Mesothelioma Symptoms and Diagnoses

Typically, the cancer forms on the outer lining of the pericardium. As a tumor grows over a period that can take as long as five decades before symptoms of mesothelioma show up, it can either remain localized in one area of the pericardium or completely surround a patient’s heart.

Once it has taken root, the tumor can then attack various parts of the cardiovascular system, including the atrium, coronary arteries, coronary sinuses, the myocardium, the heart’s conduction system, the lungs, or regional lymph nodes.

The problem with diagnosing this disease is that its resulting symptoms, such as shortness of breath, persistent coughing, and chest pains, are also associated with other cardiopulmonary diseases and thus mask the nature of the malignant mesothelioma.

In most cases, this cancer can only be detected by using imaging methods such as chest X-rays or magnetic resolution imaging (MRIs). By the time a patient’s doctor or referred oncologist discovers the tumor, however, chances are that it has already spread beyond the pericardium and metastasized to the lymph nodes or the lungs.

This has been the case in between 30% to 50% of cases involving pericardial mesothelioma. This explains why pericardial diagnoses are more frequently made postmortem.

Pericardial Mesothelioma Risk Factors

Besides its lethality and relative rarity (it has a reported prevalence of less than 0.002%), pericardial has another vexing feature associated with it:  Unlike other forms of malignant mesothelioma, the pericardial strain is the only one which is not almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure.

In patients with, for example, pleural mesothelioma, the tumors in the pleural lining developed as a result of long-term exposure to asbestos fibers. When breathed in, these fibers caused lesions in healthy tissue. The tissue became cancerous over time and created malignant tumors.

The disease can develop as a result of exposure to asbestos, but medical research has also linked it to other contributing factors. These risk factors may include hereditary predisposition, conditions which affect the immune system, exposure to radiation, infections, diet, or various types of inflammations.

Pericardial Mesothelioma Treatment

As with asbestos-related mesothelioma, pericardial tumors of this nature are presently incurable. Chemotherapy and, to a lesser extent, a form of surgery called pericardiectomy are used in patients with pericardial mesothelioma to cure localized tumors or to relieve the pressure on cardiac tissue.

It is important to note that most mesothelioma treatments cannot be treated by surgery alone; pericardiectomy operations are always carried out in conjunction with either chemotherapy or radiation.

However, while these forms of treatment reduce the size of the mesothelioma, they are only life-prolonging measures. Pericardiectomy operations, radiation, and chemotherapy can hardly ever remove tumors in their entirety.

In most cases where a patient has been diagnosed, the cancer has already spread to the nearby lymph nodes or the lungs. Yet, other forms of surgery are available to qualified candidates, which focus on removing parts of the cancers as opposed to the entire tumor.  A physician will ultimately make the decision of which patients qualify for these surgeries.

Because malignant mesothelioma is a relatively new and extremely rare form of cancer, research into how to improve treatments is ongoing, and is expected to get better and scientists discover new methods.

Pericardial Mesothelioma Treatment Outcomes

On average, effective treatment helps extend a patient’s life expectancy. According to the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF), statistics show that about half of all mesothelioma patients can expect to live for a period which ranges from eight months to around a year and a half. A smaller number of patients, about 30% of the total, can extend their lives by an average of five years.

Naturally, each patient’s prognosis is unique and depends on variables such as age, general health, diet, and other lifestyle issues, such as smoking. In broad terms, patients in their 50s who exercise regularly, do not smoke and have no major health problems will have a better prognosis than older patients who are sedentary, smoke or were heavy smokers, and have pre-existing health problems, including other forms of cancer.

Malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lung and chest lining and/or the abdomen after prolonged exposure to asbestos. There are three different kinds: pleural, peritoneal, or or pericardial mesothelioma. The difference between the three is where the cancer is located. Pleural mesothelioma victims have cancerous cells in the lungs, pericardial mesothelioma patients have cancerous cells in the the pericardium area of the heart, and peritoneal mesothelioma patients have cancerous cells in the linings of the abdomen.

The Malignant types of mesothelioma typically affects people who have worked around and have had prolonged exposure to asbestos, and although the ages will vary, victims are typically males around 60 years of age.

However, children and spouses exposed second-hand to asbestos run the risk of developing the disease. For example, if a wife washes the clothes of her husband who just spent the day working around asbestos, small asbestos fibers may make their way into her lungs, causing the same damage as it would to someone who worked around asbestos for years.

This type of asbestos exposure is rare, but it’s important to remember that anyone who has had any contact with asbestos runs the risk of getting this cancer.

Malignant Mesothelioma Symptoms

As mentioned above, the average age of malignant mesothelioma victims is around 60. This stems from the fact that it usually takes 20 to 50 years to properly diagnose the disease. As such, symptoms of mesothelioma usually don’t occur for decades after asbestos exposure and usually start out as if the victim is suffering from a common cold or the flu.

Typical symptoms include the following:

·         Chest pain that starts out light and increases in severity over time

·         Cough and hacking

·         Fatigue and lethargy

·         Shortness of breath

·         Fever

·         As the disease progresses, the symptoms become more severe, including:

·         Unusual weight loss

·         Extreme bloating and abdominal pain

·         Swelling in the arms and face

·         Sweating profusely

·         Difficulty in breathing and swallowing

·         Chest pain becomes much more pronounced

Malignant Mesothelioma Testing

When testing for malignant mesothelioma, physicians will normally use chest x-rays and a chest CT, along with a biopsy in order to remove fluids and tissues in the lungs to check for asbestos fibers. Blood tests are also administered and a thorough medical background and work history are reviewed, including times you’ve been exposed to asbestos, will be completed.

Per the American Cancer Society (ACS), when a chest x-ray is performed, physicians look for unusual fluid buildup in the lungs as well as any calcium deposits and changes in the shape of the lungs. This is the first indication that the patient may have this cancer, but other tests must be conducted before a final diagnosis is made.

When performing a CT scan, physicians are able to gather a more in-depth look at the lungs via cross-sectional images. This will allow them to pinpoint and determine the exact location of the cancer.

Biopsies are performed by inserting a long needle into the chest and directly into the tumorous area. Physicians are then able to withdraw a sample of the tumorous cells and analyze more thoroughly. If asbestos fibers are found, a diagnosis of mesothelioma usually follows.

Malignant Mesothelioma Treatments

Unfortunately, there is no cure for malignant mesothelioma, and it is also one of the most difficult forms of cancer to treat. If mesothelioma has moved into a malignant stage, the disease is so advanced that in most cases, it’s impossible to remove.

Therefore, surgery is usually not an option as this stage unless the patient has a mass tumor. Even then, other factors are taken into consideration such as the patient’s age and overall health. This is not to say that all patients with malignant are not candidates for surgery. Some people may still qualify for different types of surgeries that aim to remove portions of the cancer as opposed to the entire tumor.

If the patient does not qualify for surgery, a combination of mesothelioma treatments can be used, such as chemotherapy and radiation. This works by reducing the symptoms and helping  the victim live a better life with less pain.

Keep in mind, however, that if left untreated, victims typically pass away within nine months, according to the ACS. It’s imperative to follow up with medical treatment and assistance even though there is no cure, as it can help to prolong your life.

Your age, how long you were exposed to asbestos, general health, and response to treatments will also determine your survival rate. There is also no set rule to life expectancy as each person’s medical history and health are unique. While one person may survive up to a year, another person may go on to live another decade or more.

Malignant Mesothelioma Side Effects of Treatment

As with anyone who undergoes surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation–regardless of the disease–side effects typically follow. It’s important to remember, however, that treatments affect different people in different way, and not everyone will experience the same side effects.

The typical side effects from surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation are as follows:

·         Hair thinning and hair loss

·         Nausea with or without vomiting

·         Easily prone to infections

·         Bruising and bleeding easily

·         Bladder changes–urinating more frequently or less frequently

·         Body swelling

·         Mouth ulcers

·         Anemia

·         Constipation and/or diarrhea

·         Hard time remembering and concentrating

·         Nerve damage

·         Pain

Other less common side effects include internal organ damage, hearing loss, excessive bleeding, and blood clotting. All side effects typically stop within a few months after treatment is complete. However, if you have a high fever or just do not feel well, always consult with your physician as soon as possible.

Lung Cancer is the most dangerous form of cancer and it is responsible for the most number of deaths among all cancers. Fortunately, it is not beyond treatment, especially in its earlier stages. The best type of Lung Cancer Treatment depends on the stage and nature of the cancer. Appropriateness of the recommended treatment depends on the expertise of the Lung Cancer Specialist and goes a long way into ensuring a successful recovery. This article provides an overview of the most popular methods of treating Lung Cancer and the common side-effects associated with them.

1. Surgery

Surgery is the most common way of treating Lung Cancer. It involves removal of the tumor along with the affected part of the lung. Though this is a popular step, its feasibility largely depends on the stage of the cancer. Surgery is preferably not opted for, if the cancer has spread to other places. The types of surgery for Lung Cancer are determined by the size of the lung tissue which requires to get removed.

The procedure is termed Wedge Resection when only a small part of the lung has to be removed. Lobectomy or Bilobectomy is the removal of an entire lobe of the lung. In extreme cases, the entire lung may be required to be removed, in which case, it is called Pneumonectomy. Both Thoracotomy (large incision) and VATS or Video-assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (small incision) can be used for Lung Cancer Surgery. The side-effects include complications due to surgery and pain.

2. Radiation Therapy

Radiation Therapy is used in 3 cases. It is used to shrink the tumor before surgery, kill the remaining cancer cells that may be left after surgery, or as the primary method of Cancer Treatment. Radiation Therapy, as the primary treatment, is mostly used when the cancer has spread too far for surgery to be feasible. The radiations can be administered either from outside the body or from right within the tumor.

Radiation Therapy is however a complicated process with a host of side-effects, like skin reactions, sore throat, nausea, pain, tiredness, etc. Reaction to Radio Therapy is usually quite fast but managing the side-effects is the task of an expert.

3. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy, just like Radiation Therapy, attempts to destroy the cancerous cells. However, in this case, special drugs are used in place of radiation. The drugs are administered through tablets or intravenous lines. Chemotherapy has a huge risk of killing the healthy cells too leading to side effects like appetite loss, hair loss, fatigue, and more. Chemotherapy is being replaced with targeted therapy which is more accurate in attacking the cancerous cells.

4. Complementary Therapies

Many patients are going for complementary therapies to accompany their regular treatment regime. Techniques like meditation, Yoga, Therapeutic Touch, Ayurved, etc. have shown to lessen the effects of side effects and provide relief. However, it is highly recommended to consult your Lung Specialist on the same.

5. Consultation

Lung Cancer, being fatal, can take a lot of toll on the mental health of the patient and his near and dear ones. The Top Lung Cancer Treatment Centers have facilities for consultation on the same in their own premises or tie ups with those that provide the same.

The above are the some of the methods that are being used to treat cancer. As further study on the matter brings newer facts to light, we are hopefully moving towards a world where Lung Cancer can kill no more. Till that times, ensure good health for your lungs with regular visits to a Lung Specialist.

Unfortunately, not all law firms specializing in mesothelioma are the same. While some may have several years of experience, other firms are relatively new to the area of mesothelioma. In addition, some law firms may concentrate on other areas of law besides mesothelioma while another firm may solely focus on asbestos cases.

Aside from using your good judgement when determining which law firm you should use, there are several factors you should consider:

1.       The law firm should have experience in dealing with mesothelioma cases.

2.       The law firm should be extremely knowledgeable in asbestos laws and prior cases.

3.       Look for a law firm that focuses solely on asbestos-related cases.

4.       Look for law firms with a stellar reputation in handling asbestos cases.

5.       The law firm should not only understand asbestos laws, but should also have extensive knowledge of medical problems associated with asbestos diseases.

6.       The law firm should always keep you updated on what’s going on in your case. Although attorneys are busy people, they should be accessible.

7.       You should always get an initial consultation at no charge before deciding on a firm.

Keep in mind that it’s not recommended to retain a law firm that promises you that you will win your case no matter what. Although statistics show that the majority mesothelioma victims do go on to win their lawsuits, there are a variety of factors involved, and no case is guaranteed. An experienced law firm will help you to understand your chances and what is involved, but will never assure that your case is 100% guaranteed.

Making your case easier

Although a law firm will do the majority of your case work, it’s always a good idea to be prepared and make things easier so that the process gets rolling faster.

First, make sure to gather your medical documents, including when and where you were diagnosed, and bring this information to your initial meeting. This will allow the firm to determine if your case can be taken on.

Next, be prepared to provide the law firm with your work history and information including the full company name, address, phone number, your job role, and how long you worked there.

Finally, start keeping track of all expenses used pertaining to your disease. For example, always keep a copy of medical bills, hospital visits, mileage used to get to appointments, medical supplies, and anything other expense you paid out due to your illness.