Pericardial Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Pericardial Mesothelioma can be found in the pericardium, which is a part of the lining of the heart. This kind of mesothelioma may cause symptoms such as fatigue or chest pain that may be similar to other conditions.
These symptoms can take years to manifest following exposure to asbestos and can be difficult to diagnose. Patients should share their history of exposure to asbestos with their doctor in order to ensure a reliable diagnosis.
What is the cause of Pericardial Mesothelioma?
new york asbestos attorneys occurs in the thin membrane that lines the heart, also known as the pericardium. This is a rare type of mesothelioma that accounts for 1% to 2 % of all cases. Like mesothelioma types, pericardial mesothelioma can be linked to asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral, was used for decades in a variety of commercial and household products. Its harmful fibers can be swallowed or inhaled and they can get caught in the lining of the chest or abdominal cavities. Mesothelioma is a result of fibrils that are irritated, and they form tumors that then spread throughout the body.
Doctors have only discovered a link between exposure to asbestos and pericardial mesothelioma in just a handful of instances. Although they aren't sure the exact mechanism that causes asbestos-related cancer of the pericardium but they do know that approximately one quarter of mesothelioma patients are affected. This is in part because it usually occurs years after asbestos exposure.
Most people who are exposed to asbestos develop pleural mesothelioma. This cancer forms in the lung's lining and chest wall. It is also possible to develop testicular or peritoneal msothelioma that is found male testes. If they are also diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma, it can be difficult to determine because the symptoms often resemble those of other heart ailments.
The symptoms of pericardial cancer tend to develop gradually and can impair the ability to breathe. The symptoms may include chest pain, difficulty breathing and a fluid buildup around the heart, which is known as pericardial effusion. This condition can be diagnosed by a doctor using an echocardiogram (an ultrasound of the heart) or a biopsy.
A mesothelioma specialist can determine if a patient is suffering from the rare form of this disease and recommend the best treatment. Other factors, including genetics, an weakened immune system, and radiation exposure could increase the risk for mesothelioma pericardial. A family history of the disease also increases the risk.
Symptoms
Like other types of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma develops when asbestos fibers reach the tissue that surrounds the heart. This rare type of cancer, which accounts for less than 1percent of mesothelioma that is malignant, is most commonly found in people exposed to asbestos in their work environment or within close proximity to someone who has been affected by asbestos. Pericardial mesothelioma symptoms may vary and may be a sign of other diseases which makes it difficult to diagnose.
Pericardial mesothelioma is a condition that occurs when asbestos particles adhere to the pericardial lining and begin to grow into tumors that enlarge the membrane. It is believed that this is the reason for mesothelioma pericardial, although doctors aren't aware of how it develops. The majority of doctors believe that the cancer spread from another part of the body, such as the abdominal cavity, the lungs (peritoneum), and then to the lining inside the heart.
The mesothelium is the lining of both the chest and abdomen. This is where most mesothelioma tumours develop. The disease may also start in the peritoneal lining or in the testicles but this is not as common.
After asbestos exposure, mesothelioma symptoms may take years to show up. These symptoms can be similar to those of other diseases such as chest pain, trouble breathing and fatigue, as well as weight loss. In some instances, pericardial mesothelioma can cause clubbing of the fingers the condition where the fingertips swell and appear more round than normal.
Doctors diagnose pericardial mesothelioma based on the patient's medical history and symptoms. They will inquire with the patient about previous asbestos exposure and will perform imaging tests such as x-rays, CT scans, and an echocardiogram to look at the pericardium. They will also take a fluid or tissue sample to complete the diagnosis.
Pericardial mesothelioma is a rare condition, and many doctors are unable to recognize the symptoms. It is essential for patients to report all their symptoms to their doctor so that they can be examined for mesothelioma as well as other conditions. The taking of our Symptom Checklist with you to your appointment will ensure that your doctor is aware of the symptoms you are experiencing and is able to properly diagnose you.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of pericardial mesothelioma is difficult. Symptoms often mimic more common heart diseases and may not be apparent until the condition has advanced substantially. Moreover, asbestos exposure can happen decades before the onset of pericardial mesothelioma and makes the connection difficult to recognize. Anyone with a history of asbestos exposure should speak to their doctor about any symptoms that may be related to asbestos.
Doctors don't know the reason for pericardial msothelioma, but they believe it is caused by asbestos fibers that move from the lung to the pericardium and cause irritation to the tissue. As time passes the affected tissue transforms into cancerous cells, which then grow into tumors and thicken the pericardium. Because of tumors, fluid accumulates around the organ. This pressure causes symptoms.
X-rays or CT scans are generally done by doctors first to look for any signs of tumors or excess fluids. They then run blood tests to confirm the presence of mesothelioma, and determine the extent to which cancerous cells are spreading.
Patients with mesothelioma should also be prepared to discuss their work history with their doctor. asbestos workers face a high chance of developing asbestos-related illnesses which include mesothelioma and lung cancer. Patients with a history of asbestos exposure may be eligible for compensation via a mesothelioma lawsuit.
If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos and has diagnosed pericardial mesothelioma lawyer experienced in asbestos litigation can assist you to know your legal options. Contact Madeksho Law Firm today for an initial consultation for free. There is no charge unless we are able to obtain compensation for you.
Madeksho Law Firm has helped hundreds of veterans in asbestos-related cases. Our lawyers are aware of the various laws that affect asbestos sufferers and can ensure you receive all the benefits to which you are entitled. Start your claim now by filling out our online form or calling us. We will help you through the whole process. Contact us at 1-888-654-7635. Download our free Veterans Packet for more information about your benefits.
Treatment
To properly identify pericardial mesothelioma, doctors need to conduct physical examinations and inquire with patients about their asbestos exposure history. They can then use a variety of tests including X-rays CT Scans, Echocardiograms and Biopsies to determine the symptoms.
Asbestos fibers can take up 60 years to reach the lining in the heart, where they trigger cancerous cells. It is crucial that anyone suffering from mesothelioma seek out a physician promptly due to the lengthy latency period. They should also be honest about any previous exposure to asbestos so that they can ensure they receive the most effective treatment.
Pericardial Mesothelioma, which is among the rarest mesothelioma types is responsible for less than 1percent of all mesothelioma cases diagnosed. This is due to the difficulty in identifying this condition because it can mimic other heart conditions and signs.
The first step in the diagnosis process is a physical examination by a physician who will listen to a patient's breathing and heartbeat. The physician may also order an MRI or CT scan of the chest to identify any areas of swelling and to check for any tumors. If they discover fluid in the pericardium they will require an echocardiogram. This will be used to evaluate the heart's functioning and to determine whether the lining of the heart has thickened.
If the doctor is able to determine that there is fluid buildup or a tumor in the pericardium, they will perform an examination to confirm the diagnosis and determine if it's malignant. In the course of the biopsy, doctors will remove small samples of fluid or tissue and send them to a lab for further testing.
Many victims of pericardial sarcoidosis will not be able to recover because the treatment options are more limited than for other types. New treatment methods are being researched to improve the outcomes for patients. One of these is gene therapy, which involves the addition or removal of genes from a person's body to fight specific diseases. Immunotherapy is another option that aims to boost an individual's immunity to fight cancer.