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Three Main Types of Mesothelioma

Posted Jul 16 2010 10:09pm

Prolonged exposure to asbestos for long periods of time can result to mesothelioma. Studies show that inhalation/ingestion of asbestos fiber is the only known cause for the disease. This type of cancer is considered rare but about 2,000 people are diagnosed in the US each year. Diagnosis is quite difficult because symptoms typically appear after several decades (30 to 50 years) and often resemble those of other more common illnesses. Prognosis is usually poor, particularly when the disease reached the advanced stages before diagnosis.

Asbestos releases microscopic fibers that gets inhaled or ingested by humans. They get lodged in the tissues and cause inflammation that will result to malignant tumors.

What are the Types of Mesothelioma?

Pleural mesothelioma is found in the membrane that covers the lungs. This is the most common because it accounts for two-third of all cases. Signs of this type include: pain and tightness in the chest, dry and painful cough, shortness of breath, weight loss, and fatigue.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma This is the type that affects the lining of abdominal cavities. Symptoms are: swelling/pain in the stomach, vomiting, weight loss, bowel obstruction, and fatigue.

Pericardial Mesothelioma This type develops in the membrane that surrounds the heart. Symptoms include: chest pain, shortness of breath, and heart palpitations

Diagnosing Mesothelioma

Patients must undergo a number of medical tests that include: x-rays, CT scan, biopsy, and MRI. A history about past employment is also required.

When results are positive, the doctor will determine the size of the spread of cancer. A permanent cure is not possible but there are several treatment options that can help relieve the suffering of patients: surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other alternative therapies. Early diagnosis can provide more opportunities to alleviate pain caused by the disease and prolong/improve patients lives.

When you need information on the types of mesothelioma , look for this as well as other information related to asbestos exposure and mesothelioma in the articles and videos available on the New Jersey Mesothelioma Lawyer Blog .

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