Mesothelioma may result from extensive exposure to asbestos over a long period of time. Studies have proven time and again that exposure, inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fiber is the only known cause of this rare form of cancer. And even though, mesothelioma may be considered rare, as many as 2,000 US citizens are diagnosed with it annually. It is a difficult disease to identify because the symptoms of this cancer may only appear after 30 to 50 years, and the symptoms that do appear are often common to other, everyday diseases. If the cancer has reached the advanced stages before being diagnosed, the prognosis is likely to be a bad one. A mesothelioma law firm will confirm that settlements surrounding the disease can vary greatly, as negligence must be proven on the part of the defendant.

Any form of cancer can be separated into two categories: benign or malignant. Benign refers to cancer which is not dangerous to the patient’s health. A malignant tumor, on the other hand, is one that is dangerous to a patient’s health. Unfortunately, the benign form of this particular kind is found very rarely. If you hear tell of this form, it is most likely of the malignant sort.

The cancer develops from the protective lining surrounding a number of the body’s organs, also known as the mesothelium. Often times, a person who has developed this type of cancer worked on a job site on which they were exposed to asbestos and glass particles.

Within this particular cancer, there are three types of cancerous cells that may be found: epithelioid, sarcomatoid and mixed/biphasic (a mixture of epithelioid and sarcomatoid). In addition, there are three common types of this cancer which affect different parts of each patient’s body.

The most common type is called pleural; of all diagnosed cases, 75 percent are this form. The pleural form develops within the lining of the lungs (pleura), and from there spreads to other areas of the body. Often, symptoms will include fatigue, dry cough, weight loss, shortness of breath or chest pain.

The peritoneal form of this cancer appears first in the abdominal cavities. Symptoms of this type are similar to that of the pleural sort, including swelling in the stomach or stomach pain, weight loss, vomiting, fatigue and bowel obstruction.

Finally, there is the pericardial type which begins in the membrane which encompasses the heart. Chest pain, heart palpitations or shortness of breath are possible indications of this form of the cancer.

It is important for those who believe themselves to be suffering from cancer to undergo the proper medical tests for example, x-rays, biopsy, MRI, CT scan. If a patient is found to have a malignant tumor, only a doctor can determine the size and reach of that tumor. Although, no cure has yet been found for cancer, there are many treatments available for the disease. Patients may undergo chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery or other therapeutic measures. If you feel you may be experiencing symptoms of something greater than a common illness, do not put off seeking treatment because early diagnosis of the disease may greatly improve the prognosis.

Author Bio: Stewart Wrighter is writing an article on mesothelioma. He spoke at length with an attorney regarding this cancer in a mesothelioma law firm.

Category: Legal
Keywords: mesothelioma,mesothelioma law firm