Prolonged exposure to asbestos for long periods of time can lead to mesothelioma. Research shows that inhalation / ingestion of asbestos fiber is the only known cause of the disease. This cancer is rare, but about 2,000 people are diagnosed in the U.S. each year. The diagnosis is quite difficult because symptoms usually appear after several decades (30 to 50 years) and often resemble those of other common diseases. The prognosis is usually poor, especially when the disease reached advanced stages before diagnosis.
Cancer is always separated into two forms: benign and malignant. Malignant mesothelioma is very rare, so any mention of the condition often refers to a malignant tumor. Three main types of mesothelioma cancer cells include epithelioid, sarcomatoid and mixed biphasic (epithelioid and sarcomatoid combined).
The three main types of mesothelioma that affects different areas of the Administration
1. Pleural mesothelioma. This is the most common type, of which approximately 75% of all diagnosed cases. Cancer develops in the lining of the lungs (pleura) and from there spread to other parts of the body. Common symptoms may include: difficulty breathing, tightness or chest pain, dry cough, weight loss and fatigue.
2. Peritoneal mesothelioma. This is the kind that affects the lining of the abdominal cavity. Symptoms include swelling or pain in the stomach, vomiting, weight loss, intestinal obstruction, and fatigue.
3. Effusion Mesothelioma. This type occurs in the membrane surrounding the heart. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath and heart palpitations.
Diagnosing mesothelioma
Patients should undergo a series of medical tests that include X-rays, CT scan, biopsy, and MRI. A story about a previous job, is also required. When the results are positive, the physician will determine the size of the spread of cancer. A permanent cure is not possible, but there are several treatment options that can help alleviate the suffering of patients: surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and other alternative therapies. Early diagnosis may provide more opportunities to relieve the pain caused by the disease and prolong or improve the lives of patients.