Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the mesothelium, a membrane lining that surrounds internal organs. The mesothelium surrounding the lungs called the pleura, so mesothelioma is the term used for this type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs. The pleura is actually the most common place for this type of cancer to take hold. This is because the pollutants that cause the disease (usually asbestos fibers) enter the body through the respiratory tract and lodge in the lungs. However, it is important to note that pleural mesothelioma is a cancer of the lung.
Symptoms
Painful breathing, shortness of breath, persistent, painful cough and chest pain are all common symptoms of the disease. Unexplained weight loss, fever, difficulty swallowing, back pain, and hoarse voice are other issues that may occur with this type of cancer. Malignant mesothelioma can occur in the body for decades before causing symptoms. When health problems begins to become apparent, may be confused with other diseases. These are two reasons why this type of cancer is usually advanced before being detected.
Diagnosis
Since mesothelioma is usually caused by asbestos, the patient's history of exposure to be controlled at an early stage to determine the likelihood that symptoms are caused by cancer. After medical examination, various tests may be performed to determine if mesothelioma is present. Chest X-ray, CT and PET are some examples. MRI and / or pulmonary angiography is sometimes used to confirm the diagnosis.
If abnormal results are detected that might indicate mesothelioma, a biopsy should be performed. This can be done using a sample of fluid from the pleura or a sample of the pleura itself. The larger the sample, the more accurate biopsy results tend to be. Analysis of gene models and other sophisticated tests can be performed on a biopsy to determine exactly what type of cancer is present.
Treatment
The recommended method for treatment of mesothelioma depends on how far the cancer has spread and the overall health of the patient. Radiotherapy, chemotherapy and surgery may be the best solution for certain situations. Some people are still candidates for lung transplantation. In other cases, treatment aims to relieve symptoms such as pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs). There are many ongoing clinical trials to find better treatments for each stage of mesothelioma. These include advanced options such as immunotherapy and gene therapy.
Litigation
Many patients who are diagnosed with this cancer file a complaint with the help of a personal injury lawyer. The goal is to get compensation for mesothelioma, which will cover medical expenses and to compensate the victim for pain and suffering caused by the disease. Family members can also choose to file a wrongful death claim after the death of a sick loved one who died from mesothelioma. Because the disease is often diagnosed in older patients after cancer began to spread, rates of long-term survival are generally very poor.
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