/ / Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma - is a rare form of cancer that can arise in the mesothelial lining of the lungs, heart or abdomen. Some cases have even been reported to develop in the lining of the testicles as well. These four types of mesothelioma are called pleural mesothelioma (lung), pericardial mesothelioma (heart), peritoneal mesothelioma (abdomen) and testicular mesothelioma

Combined, these cancers affect 2,000 to 3,000 people in the United States each year. Receiving a diagnosis can be difficult due to the similarity of symptoms to other, more common conditions and doctors may overlook mesothelioma as a diagnosis. Another contributing factor that makes these cancers difficult to diagnose is the severe latency period of symptoms. From the time of someone's initial exposure to asbestos, the primary cause of mesothelioma, signs of development may take as long as 20 to 50 years to arise.

Mesothelioma

In an effort to help patients understand mesothelioma, Asbestos.com offers a complimentary packet that contains treatment options and other helpful resources tailored to your specific diagnosis. The packet also covers the nation's top mesothelioma doctors and cancer centers, as well as financial assistance options to help cover medical costs. To receive your packet in the mail, please enter your information below.

Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos and symptoms may not appear for as long as 20 to 40 years after exposure. Mesothelioma is a cancerous tumor of the mesothelium. The mesothelium is the tissue made up of specialized cells called mesothelial cells which line the chest cavity, abdominal cavity, and the cavity around the heart. These cells also cover the outer surface of most internal organs.

The mesothelium produces a special lubricating fluid that allows organs to move around within the body with less friction. For example, this fluid makes it easier for the lungs to move inside the chest during breathing.

The mesothelium of the chest is known as the pleura. The mesothelium of the abdomen is called the peritoneum. The mesothelium of the pericardial cavity, which is the space around the heart, is called the pericardium.

Mesothelioma is a cancer that attacks any of these mesothelial regions.

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer. This is caused by asbestos and the shape of the protective tissue that covers the lungs, stomach and heart. Symptoms include coughing, chest pain and shortness of breath. The treatment combines surgery, radiation and chemotherapy improves survival and life expectancy.

The American Cancer Society records about 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma every year in the US

This is a disease that mostly affects people who work with asbestos and products containing asbestos.

Although there are treatments that control tumor growth, researchers have not found a definite cure for cancer.


Causes

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.

Cancer develops when someone swallows asbestos, and that causes changes in one's DNA.

Our genes, which are made of DNA, control how cells grow, multiply and die. Changes to our genes can cause cells to divide out of control and can cause cancer

Mesothelioma development

  • Someone inhales or swallows air asbestos fibers.
  • Asbestos fibers become lodged in the lining of the lungs, stomach or heart.
  • Embedded fibers damage mesothelial cells and cause inflammation.
  • Over time, tumors begin to form in the damaged mesothelium, which is the lining of the stomach, lungs, heart and testes.
Tumors can also be benign (not cancer). But when the tumor is cancerous, doctors call it malignant mesothelioma. Often abbreviated as mesothelioma.

 

Symptoms

Common mesothelioma symptoms include:
  • Dry cough
  • Hard to breathe
  • Respiratory complications
  • Pain in the chest or abdomen
  • Fever or night sweats
  • Pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs)
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle weakness
Symptoms of mesothelioma usually do not appear until the tumor grows and spreads. Mesothelioma latency is 20-50 years. That's how long it takes from initial exposure to accurate diagnosis. For that reason, many people with mesothelioma are in their 60s or 70s.

You should talk to a mesothelioma specialist immediately if you have a history of exposure to asbestos and experience these symptoms. Early diagnosis can improve your prognosis and life expectancy.


Who Are the Most at Risk for Mesothelioma?

Veteran

The use of asbestos in the military was widespread from 1940 to 1980. Veterans from all branches of the US armed forces were at risk of exposure. Navy veterans are most at risk. This branch uses the largest quantity of asbestos products.

Work Exposure


More than 75 jobs have exposed workers to asbestos. Automatic mechanics, textile workers, steel factory workers, construction workers, and firefighters are among the most at risk.

Secondary Exposure

Asbestos workers unknowingly carry asbestos fibers on their bodies and clothes. This results in secondary asbestos exposure among residents such as women and children.


Type of Mesothelioma

Oncologists call each type of mesothelioma based on the location in the body where it develops.

Types of pleural mesothelioma and peritoneum are the most common. Pericardial accounts for 1 percent of cases. Another rare type is testicular mesothelioma. This represents less than 1 percent of all mesothelioma.

Prognosis, symptoms and treatment options vary by type.

Pleural Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma
  • The most common type
  • The shape of the soft tissue that covers the lungs
  • It is best treated with a multimodal approach

 

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma
  • Less than 20 percent of all cases
  • Develops in the lining around the stomach
  • Respond well to a combination of heated surgery and chemotherapy 

 

Pericardial Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma
  • The second rarest type
  • The shape of the soft tissue around the heart
  • It is best treated with a multimodal approach 

 

Testicular Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma
  • The rarest type
  • Develop in the testicular layer
  • Respond to the best operatio


Prognosis

Younger patients and women have a better mesothelioma prognosis than older men. People diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma also have a higher chance of survival.

Patients who are eligible for multimodal therapy, which is a combination of two or more standard care treatments, have a better life expectancy and increased prognosis.

Patient mesothelioma cell types also play an important role in prognosis and life expectancy.

The three cell types include:

Epithelioid

These cells are the most responsive to treatment, which increases the prognosis and life expectancy. They consist of 50 percent diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Sarcomatoid

These cells are most unresponsive to treatment. Patients with this cell type have a worse prognosis and shorter life expectancy. These cells consist of 10 percent diagnosis.

Biphasic

Combination of epitheloid and sarcomatoid cells. This type is less responsive to treatment. But the prognosis and life expectancy depend on the ratio of the two cell types. This type accounts for 30-40 percent of diagnoses.

Four stages of mesothelioma


Stage 1


Mesothelioma
Cancer is localized. Surgery is most effective at this stage. Higher survival rate. The median life expectancy at stage 1 was 22.2 months.

Stage 2



Mesothelioma
The tumor has begun to spread from its original location to adjacent structures. Surgery is still an option. The median life expectancy at stage 2 is 20 months.


Stage 3



Mesothelioma
Cancer has progressed to a more advanced stage by spreading to regional lymph nodes. Surgery can still be an option. The median life expectancy at stage 3 is 17.9 months.

Stage 4


Mesothelioma
Cancer has spread widely in the area where it developed. Chemotherapy and symptoms of immunotherapy control and prolong survival. The average life expectancy in stage 4 is 14.9 months or less.


The Importance of Finding a Mesothelioma Specialist

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer. This only represents 0.3 percent of all cancer diagnoses. Most doctors and oncologists have never found it.

A 2009 study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine stated that cancer treatments "require technical knowledge and skills of special doctors such as medical oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists."

Cancer doctors specifically assign:
  • Purpose for treatment and prognosis
  • Possible use of chemotherapy
  • The first type of treatment
  • Possible participation in clinical trials
These are factors that influence the survival of mesothelioma patients. That's why finding a mesothelioma specialist is very important.

Finding a mesothelioma specialist center with an experienced mesothelioma doctor is very important for survival.


Treatment options

Mesothelioma treatment helps patients live longer lives. But not every patient qualifies for every type of mesothelioma treatment.

The most common treatments for mesothelioma include:

Operation

Offering the greatest opportunities for survival. Usually used for diagnosis, tumor removal or palliative care to reduce pain. Patients with strong health and limited cancer spread are good candidates.
Chemotherapy

More than 70 percent of patients undergo chemotherapy. This drug uses powerful drugs to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells.
Radiation therapy

Used to reduce pain from growing tumors. When combined with surgery and chemotherapy, it reduces the risk of local recurrence. Can be used at any stage of cancer.
Immunotherapy

This experimental treatment enhances the immune system to fight cancer. Mainly used in clinical trials.

Multimodal Therapy

Combination of two or more treatments. Clinical studies show this approach increases survival rates

HIPEC

Multimodal treatment for mesothelioma peritoneum patients. Surgery is first used to remove as many tumors as possible. Heated chemotherapy is then applied to the abdominal cavity to destroy the remaining cancer cells.


Palliative care

Can include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or HIPEC. The goal is not curative care. Instead, the goal is to reduce pain and improve quality of life. Good for any mesothelioma patient.

Clinical Testing and Emerging Care

Clinical trials offer mesothelioma patients access to experimental therapy. They also provide scientific and medical information for research to develop new treatments. Patients in clinical trials also received very good medical care.

Alternative Care

Herbal medicines, mind-body therapy, holistic healing and other complementary therapies can benefit patients.



Mesothelioma demands and financial assistance

 

Why Should You File?

Many companies that produce, distribute or use asbestos products know it's deadly. But they forgot to warn their employees. Filing a lawsuit can help mesothelioma patients cover lost wages, medical expenses and other fees.

Who Can Submit a Claim?

A person with mesothelioma can file a personal injury suit. The Mesothelioma lawyers submitted this to the companies responsible for their clients' asbestos exposure. Families can file a false death claim when a loved one dies of mesothelioma.

How do I submit a lawsuit?

Qualified mesothelioma lawyers can help you decide when to file a lawsuit. They can also guide you through the process. Time is of the essence because the limitation law can end. A mesothelioma lawyer will review your case so that you receive the highest compensation.

Other types of financial assistance

VA claim

Military veterans can submit claims related to asbestos through the US Department of Veterans Affairs.

Medicare and Medicaid

Government assistance for older patients or those with limited income.

Worker Compensation

Financial assistance may be available to people exposed to asbestos in the workplace.


Mesothelioma support

Support is available for mesothelioma patients, survivors and loved ones in various forms.
Mesothelioma Support Group
Offer to patients and survivors a safe place to share experiences.
Grief Support

Counseling sessions and sadness support groups can bring peace of mind. They can also provide coping skills needed to grieve for the loss of a loved one.
Medical support

The medical team complete with mesothelioma specialists, nutritionists, patient advocates and others can improve the prognosis.

The Mesothelioma Center's monthly online support group meets every second Wednesday. A licensed mental health consultant, Dana Nolan, runs a support group. Patients and survivors can share their experiences with others in a similar cancer journey.

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma - is a rare form of cancer that can arise in the mesothelial lining of the lungs, heart or abdomen. Some cases have even been reported to develop in the lining of the testicles as well. These four types of mesothelioma are called pleural mesothelioma (lung), pericardial mesothelioma (heart), peritoneal mesothelioma (abdomen) and testicular mesothelioma

Combined, these cancers affect 2,000 to 3,000 people in the United States each year. Receiving a diagnosis can be difficult due to the similarity of symptoms to other, more common conditions and doctors may overlook mesothelioma as a diagnosis. Another contributing factor that makes these cancers difficult to diagnose is the severe latency period of symptoms. From the time of someone's initial exposure to asbestos, the primary cause of mesothelioma, signs of development may take as long as 20 to 50 years to arise.

Mesothelioma

In an effort to help patients understand mesothelioma, Asbestos.com offers a complimentary packet that contains treatment options and other helpful resources tailored to your specific diagnosis. The packet also covers the nation's top mesothelioma doctors and cancer centers, as well as financial assistance options to help cover medical costs. To receive your packet in the mail, please enter your information below.

Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos and symptoms may not appear for as long as 20 to 40 years after exposure. Mesothelioma is a cancerous tumor of the mesothelium. The mesothelium is the tissue made up of specialized cells called mesothelial cells which line the chest cavity, abdominal cavity, and the cavity around the heart. These cells also cover the outer surface of most internal organs.

The mesothelium produces a special lubricating fluid that allows organs to move around within the body with less friction. For example, this fluid makes it easier for the lungs to move inside the chest during breathing.

The mesothelium of the chest is known as the pleura. The mesothelium of the abdomen is called the peritoneum. The mesothelium of the pericardial cavity, which is the space around the heart, is called the pericardium.

Mesothelioma is a cancer that attacks any of these mesothelial regions.

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer. This is caused by asbestos and the shape of the protective tissue that covers the lungs, stomach and heart. Symptoms include coughing, chest pain and shortness of breath. The treatment combines surgery, radiation and chemotherapy improves survival and life expectancy.

The American Cancer Society records about 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma every year in the US

This is a disease that mostly affects people who work with asbestos and products containing asbestos.

Although there are treatments that control tumor growth, researchers have not found a definite cure for cancer.


Causes

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.

Cancer develops when someone swallows asbestos, and that causes changes in one's DNA.

Our genes, which are made of DNA, control how cells grow, multiply and die. Changes to our genes can cause cells to divide out of control and can cause cancer

Mesothelioma development

  • Someone inhales or swallows air asbestos fibers.
  • Asbestos fibers become lodged in the lining of the lungs, stomach or heart.
  • Embedded fibers damage mesothelial cells and cause inflammation.
  • Over time, tumors begin to form in the damaged mesothelium, which is the lining of the stomach, lungs, heart and testes.
Tumors can also be benign (not cancer). But when the tumor is cancerous, doctors call it malignant mesothelioma. Often abbreviated as mesothelioma.

 

Symptoms

Common mesothelioma symptoms include:
  • Dry cough
  • Hard to breathe
  • Respiratory complications
  • Pain in the chest or abdomen
  • Fever or night sweats
  • Pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs)
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle weakness
Symptoms of mesothelioma usually do not appear until the tumor grows and spreads. Mesothelioma latency is 20-50 years. That's how long it takes from initial exposure to accurate diagnosis. For that reason, many people with mesothelioma are in their 60s or 70s.

You should talk to a mesothelioma specialist immediately if you have a history of exposure to asbestos and experience these symptoms. Early diagnosis can improve your prognosis and life expectancy.


Who Are the Most at Risk for Mesothelioma?

Veteran

The use of asbestos in the military was widespread from 1940 to 1980. Veterans from all branches of the US armed forces were at risk of exposure. Navy veterans are most at risk. This branch uses the largest quantity of asbestos products.

Work Exposure


More than 75 jobs have exposed workers to asbestos. Automatic mechanics, textile workers, steel factory workers, construction workers, and firefighters are among the most at risk.

Secondary Exposure

Asbestos workers unknowingly carry asbestos fibers on their bodies and clothes. This results in secondary asbestos exposure among residents such as women and children.


Type of Mesothelioma

Oncologists call each type of mesothelioma based on the location in the body where it develops.

Types of pleural mesothelioma and peritoneum are the most common. Pericardial accounts for 1 percent of cases. Another rare type is testicular mesothelioma. This represents less than 1 percent of all mesothelioma.

Prognosis, symptoms and treatment options vary by type.

Pleural Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma
  • The most common type
  • The shape of the soft tissue that covers the lungs
  • It is best treated with a multimodal approach

 

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma
  • Less than 20 percent of all cases
  • Develops in the lining around the stomach
  • Respond well to a combination of heated surgery and chemotherapy 

 

Pericardial Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma
  • The second rarest type
  • The shape of the soft tissue around the heart
  • It is best treated with a multimodal approach 

 

Testicular Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma
  • The rarest type
  • Develop in the testicular layer
  • Respond to the best operatio


Prognosis

Younger patients and women have a better mesothelioma prognosis than older men. People diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma also have a higher chance of survival.

Patients who are eligible for multimodal therapy, which is a combination of two or more standard care treatments, have a better life expectancy and increased prognosis.

Patient mesothelioma cell types also play an important role in prognosis and life expectancy.

The three cell types include:

Epithelioid

These cells are the most responsive to treatment, which increases the prognosis and life expectancy. They consist of 50 percent diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Sarcomatoid

These cells are most unresponsive to treatment. Patients with this cell type have a worse prognosis and shorter life expectancy. These cells consist of 10 percent diagnosis.

Biphasic

Combination of epitheloid and sarcomatoid cells. This type is less responsive to treatment. But the prognosis and life expectancy depend on the ratio of the two cell types. This type accounts for 30-40 percent of diagnoses.

Four stages of mesothelioma


Stage 1


Mesothelioma
Cancer is localized. Surgery is most effective at this stage. Higher survival rate. The median life expectancy at stage 1 was 22.2 months.

Stage 2



Mesothelioma
The tumor has begun to spread from its original location to adjacent structures. Surgery is still an option. The median life expectancy at stage 2 is 20 months.


Stage 3



Mesothelioma
Cancer has progressed to a more advanced stage by spreading to regional lymph nodes. Surgery can still be an option. The median life expectancy at stage 3 is 17.9 months.

Stage 4


Mesothelioma
Cancer has spread widely in the area where it developed. Chemotherapy and symptoms of immunotherapy control and prolong survival. The average life expectancy in stage 4 is 14.9 months or less.


The Importance of Finding a Mesothelioma Specialist

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer. This only represents 0.3 percent of all cancer diagnoses. Most doctors and oncologists have never found it.

A 2009 study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine stated that cancer treatments "require technical knowledge and skills of special doctors such as medical oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists."

Cancer doctors specifically assign:
  • Purpose for treatment and prognosis
  • Possible use of chemotherapy
  • The first type of treatment
  • Possible participation in clinical trials
These are factors that influence the survival of mesothelioma patients. That's why finding a mesothelioma specialist is very important.

Finding a mesothelioma specialist center with an experienced mesothelioma doctor is very important for survival.


Treatment options

Mesothelioma treatment helps patients live longer lives. But not every patient qualifies for every type of mesothelioma treatment.

The most common treatments for mesothelioma include:

Operation

Offering the greatest opportunities for survival. Usually used for diagnosis, tumor removal or palliative care to reduce pain. Patients with strong health and limited cancer spread are good candidates.
Chemotherapy

More than 70 percent of patients undergo chemotherapy. This drug uses powerful drugs to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells.
Radiation therapy

Used to reduce pain from growing tumors. When combined with surgery and chemotherapy, it reduces the risk of local recurrence. Can be used at any stage of cancer.
Immunotherapy

This experimental treatment enhances the immune system to fight cancer. Mainly used in clinical trials.

Multimodal Therapy

Combination of two or more treatments. Clinical studies show this approach increases survival rates

HIPEC

Multimodal treatment for mesothelioma peritoneum patients. Surgery is first used to remove as many tumors as possible. Heated chemotherapy is then applied to the abdominal cavity to destroy the remaining cancer cells.


Palliative care

Can include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or HIPEC. The goal is not curative care. Instead, the goal is to reduce pain and improve quality of life. Good for any mesothelioma patient.

Clinical Testing and Emerging Care

Clinical trials offer mesothelioma patients access to experimental therapy. They also provide scientific and medical information for research to develop new treatments. Patients in clinical trials also received very good medical care.

Alternative Care

Herbal medicines, mind-body therapy, holistic healing and other complementary therapies can benefit patients.



Mesothelioma demands and financial assistance

 

Why Should You File?

Many companies that produce, distribute or use asbestos products know it's deadly. But they forgot to warn their employees. Filing a lawsuit can help mesothelioma patients cover lost wages, medical expenses and other fees.

Who Can Submit a Claim?

A person with mesothelioma can file a personal injury suit. The Mesothelioma lawyers submitted this to the companies responsible for their clients' asbestos exposure. Families can file a false death claim when a loved one dies of mesothelioma.

How do I submit a lawsuit?

Qualified mesothelioma lawyers can help you decide when to file a lawsuit. They can also guide you through the process. Time is of the essence because the limitation law can end. A mesothelioma lawyer will review your case so that you receive the highest compensation.

Other types of financial assistance

VA claim

Military veterans can submit claims related to asbestos through the US Department of Veterans Affairs.

Medicare and Medicaid

Government assistance for older patients or those with limited income.

Worker Compensation

Financial assistance may be available to people exposed to asbestos in the workplace.


Mesothelioma support

Support is available for mesothelioma patients, survivors and loved ones in various forms.
Mesothelioma Support Group
Offer to patients and survivors a safe place to share experiences.
Grief Support

Counseling sessions and sadness support groups can bring peace of mind. They can also provide coping skills needed to grieve for the loss of a loved one.
Medical support

The medical team complete with mesothelioma specialists, nutritionists, patient advocates and others can improve the prognosis.

The Mesothelioma Center's monthly online support group meets every second Wednesday. A licensed mental health consultant, Dana Nolan, runs a support group. Patients and survivors can share their experiences with others in a similar cancer journey.
Mesothelioma