Types of Mesothelioma
Long-term or heavy asbestos exposure can lead to a rare and fatal form of cancer known as mesothelioma. Approximately 2,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year in the United States, and the prognosis for this cancer is usually poor given that it tends not to be diagnosed until it has reached more advanced stages.
Those who are diagnosed with mesothelioma have one of three types, depending on where the cancer first developed:
Pleural mesothelioma – This is the most common type of mesothelioma, accounting for about three-quarters of all cases. Pleural mesothelioma develops in the lining of the lungs (the pleura) and may spread from there. Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma often include shortness of breath, tightness or pain in the chest, a dry cough, fatigue and weight loss. As with other types of mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma symptoms generally take 20 to 50 years to appear.
Peritoneal mesothelioma – This rarer type of mesothelioma affects the lining of the abdominal cavity, where it causes such symptoms as stomach pain and swelling, vomiting, bowel obstruction, weight loss and fatigue.
Pericardial mesothelioma – The third type of mesothelioma is referred to as pericardial mesothelioma and it develops in the lining of the heart. Symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma include heart palpitations, chest pain and shortness of breath.
Because the symptoms of these three types of mesothelioma are so general, mesothelioma is sometimes misdiagnosed as bronchitis, pneumonia or other more benign illness. Therefore, patients with a history of asbestos exposure who experience suspicious symptoms should always seek medical attention and inform their doctor of the exposure they’ve experienced.
Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Diagnosing mesothelioma requires not only the patient’s history, but also a battery of tests such as x-rays, biopsy, MRI and CT scan. Once a positive diagnosis of mesothelioma is made, the patient and doctor can discuss treatment options, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, alternative therapies or participation in a clinical trial.
Treatments for mesothelioma can be costly, but some individuals may be eligible for compensation for medical bills and additional losses (for example, pain and suffering, lost wages, loss of a loved one). A mesothelioma attorney can inform you of your legal rights if you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease.
Contact the mesothelioma lawyers at Burke & Eisner today for a free claim evaluation to learn more about your rights and options.
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See Also:
* What is Mesothelioma?
* What is Asbestos
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