What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that originates in the protective lining covering most of the body’s internal organs, closely linked to asbestos exposure and defined by abnormal or malignant cell growth in the mesothelial membrane. Many victims of exposure to asbestos do not notice symptoms until mesothelioma is in advanced stages.
Generally, industries such as mining, milling, manufacturing, construction, and demolition have had the highest risk of dangerous asbestos exposure. However, secondhand exposure can cause mesothelioma and other diseases in people who have come into contact with someone exposed to asbestos.
For more than 30 years, Goldenberg Heller & Antognoli has regularly worked with experts in diagnosing and treating mesothelioma. If you have experienced abnormal shortness of breath, chest pain, abdominal pain, fatigue or other breathing problems, seek medical assistance immediately.
Forms of Mesothelioma
There are three primary types of mesothelioma based on cell type and where a tumor first develops:
Pleural mesothelioma: The most common type of mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma is a cancer of the pleural membrane surrounding the lungs and chest cavity.
Peritoneal mesothelioma: Peritoneal mesothelioma is a cancer of the peritoneal membrane surrounding many abdominal organs.
Pericardial mesothelioma: A rarer form, pericardial mesothelioma is a cancer of the membrane surrounding the heart and is much more difficult to diagnose.
Almost everyone in the United States has been exposed to asbestos at some time. In some cases, it is difficult for our clients to recall where, when, and how they were exposed to asbestos fibers or dust. Some particles can become lodged in the lungs or other parts of the body. They may attach to the mesothelial membrane and cause scarring and inflammation. As organ tissue scars and thickens, breathing, blood flow, or other abdominal functions can become more difficult or restricted.
It is important that you seek expert medical care and advice because many symptoms of mesothelioma are similar to several other conditions.
Symptoms of mesothelioma often do not occur until the illness is very advanced. Timely expert diagnosis is vital. A knowledgeable physician will take an exposure history and recommend a physical exam, often including chest X-ray, CT scan and lung function tests. It also might be necessary for a mesothelioma specialist to perform other tests and procedures such as chest radiographs, lung biopsy, blood studies, and a colon cancer screening.
How is Mesothelioma Treated?
Treating mesothelioma is similar to other forms of cancer and may include surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy among other treatments. It is important to speak to your doctor about these issues, even years after exposure.
Advancements in therapy and diagnosis have improved the prognoses for patients, but the costs of treatment, loss of opportunity, increased health insurance premiums, physical and emotional hardships, and other damages take tolls on victims and their families. Many of our clients face the grim prospect of having less than a year to live after being diagnosed with mesothelioma. That’s why it’s vital to work with a law firm that is familiar with litigating mesothelioma cases efficiently and effectively.