Pericardial Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Pericardial mesothelioma is an uncommon form of mesothelioma which occurs in the lining of the heart (pericardium). This type of mesothelioma generally results in symptoms such as chest pain or fatigue that can be similar to other health conditions.
The symptoms can take a long time to develop following asbestos exposure which makes a diagnosis difficult. The best method to obtain an accurate diagnosis is to discuss their experience of exposure to asbestos with their physician.
What is the cause of pericardial mesothelioma?
Pericardial mesothelioma occurs in the thin membrane that surrounds the heart, referred to as the pericardium. It is a rare type of mesothelioma which can be found in 1% to 2 % of all cases. Like all other types of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma is connected to asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was utilized in many common commercial and household items for a long time. Its toxic fibers are easily inhaled or swallowed, and they can end up in the chest's lining and abdominal cavities. Mesothelioma forms when the fibrils become irritated and form tumors that then spread throughout the body.
Doctors have only identified a link between asbestos exposure and pericardial mesothelioma in just a handful of instances. Although they aren't sure the exact mechanism that causes asbestos-related cancer of the pericardium to grow however, they do know that about a quarter all mesothelioma patients are affected. This is due to the fact that it is usually diagnosed decades after exposure to asbestos.
Most people who are exposed to asbestos develop pleural msothelioma. This cancer is found in the lung's lining as well as the chest wall. However, they could also develop peritoneal mesothelioma, located in the abdomen, or testicular mesothelioma, in the male testes. It is sometimes difficult to diagnose pericardial msothelioma in the event that the symptoms are similar to other heart problems.
The symptoms of pericardial cancer tend to come on gradually and impact breathing. The symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing and a fluid buildup around the heart, referred to as pericardial effusion. The condition is diagnosed by a doctor with an echocardiogram (an ultrasound of the heart) or a biopsy.
A mesothelioma specialist will determine whether a patient has this rare form of the disease and assist them in finding the best treatment. In addition to asbestos exposure other factors that may increase the risk of pericardial mesothelioma include genetics as well as an impaired immune system, and radiation exposure. Patients with mesothelioma in their family are at a higher risk as well.
new orleans asbestos law firm
Like other types of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma occurs when asbestos fibers enter the tissue that surrounds the heart. This rare type of cancer, which accounts for less than 1percent of mesothelioma that is malignant, is most commonly found in those who have been exposed to asbestos at work or in close proximity to someone who has been affected by asbestos. The symptoms of mesothelioma in the pericardium can be different and can mimic other conditions and make it difficult to determine the cause.
Pericardial mesothelioma can occur when asbestos particles adhere to the pericardial lining and begin to form tumors that thicken the membrane. Doctors aren't sure the process by which pericardial cancer develops but they believe that asbestos particles are the reason. The majority of doctors believe that the cancer spread from a different part of the body like the abdomen, lungs (peritoneum), and then to the lining of the heart.
The mesothelium is the lining of the abdomen and chest. This is the area where the majority of mesothelioma tumors develop. The disease may also begin in the peritoneal lining or in the testicles however this is much less common.
The symptoms of mesothelioma such as mesothelioma of the pericardial region may take years to manifest after exposure to asbestos. These symptoms are typically similar to other diseases and may include chest pain, trouble breathing, weight loss, fatigue, and a constant cough. In a few instances, pericardial mesothelioma could cause clubbing of the fingers the condition where the fingers expand and appear rounder than usual.
Doctors diagnose mesothelioma of the pericardium by looking at the patient's medical history. They will inquire with the patient about previous asbestos exposure, and then perform imaging tests such as x rays, CT scans, and an echocardiogram in order to look at the pericardium. To make sure they are able to determine the cause, they will also take samples of fluid or tissue.
Pericardial Mesothelioma is a rare condition that isn't acknowledged by a lot of doctors, can trigger serious symptoms. Patients should report any symptoms to their physician to be examined for mesothelioma or other diseases. Taking our Symptom Checklist along prior to your appointment will ensure that your doctor is aware of all symptoms you are experiencing and will be able to properly diagnose you.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of pericardial mesothelioma is difficult. The symptoms may be similar to other heart conditions and may not be apparent until the disease has advanced. Additionally, exposure to asbestos can happen decades before the onset of pericardial cancer and makes the connection difficult to recognize. Anyone with a history of asbestos exposure should consult their physician about any signs that may be related to asbestos.
The exact cause of mesothelioma pericardial remains unclear However, doctors believe it occurs when asbestos fibers travel from the lungs into the pericardium and irritate the tissues there. In time the tissue that has been irritated transforms into cancerous cells that develop into tumors and enlarge the pericardium. Fluid builds up around the heart as a result of the tumors and the pressure that results puts pressure on the organ and leads to symptoms.
Typically, doctors first perform imaging tests such as Xrays and CT scans to detect extra fluids or tumors. Then, they run blood tests to confirm the presence of mesothelioma, and determine the extent of any spreading of cancerous cells.
Mesothelioma patients must also be prepared to discuss their employment medical history with a doctor. asbestos workers are at a higher risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Patients with a history of asbestos exposure could be eligible for compensation through mesothelioma lawsuits.
A lawyer with experience in asbestos litigation can help you understand the legal options that are available to you if or someone you love has been exposed asbestos and has developed pericardial Mesothelioma. Call Madeksho Law Firm for a free consultation today. There is no charge unless we seek compensation on your behalf.
The pericardial mesothelioma attorneys at Madeksho Law Firm have helped hundreds of veterans and their families with asbestos-related cases. Our attorneys are familiar with the laws that affect asbestos victims, and can help you receive the benefits you deserve. Start your claim today by filling out our online form or by calling us. We will guide you through the entire process. Our number is 1-888-654-7635. Download our free Veterans Packet for more information about your benefits.
Treatment
To properly determine if pericardial mesothelioma is present doctors must conduct physical examinations and ask patients about their asbestos exposure background. They can then use different tests such as X-rays CT Scans, Echocardiograms and Biopsies to determine the symptoms.
Asbestos fibers can take up 60 years to reach the lining in the heart, where they cause cancerous cells. It is essential that anyone who has mesothelioma-related symptoms seek out a physician immediately due to the long time of latency. It is also essential to be upfront about their prior exposure to asbestos to ensure they receive the best treatment.
Pericardial mesothelioma is among the rarest types of mesothelioma and is responsible for less than one percent of all mesothelioma cases diagnosed. This is due in part to the difficulty in identifying this condition because it can be a symptom of other heart conditions and signs.
A doctor will first assess the patient and observe their heartbeat and breathing. The doctor may also request an MRI or CT scan of the chest in order to detect any areas of swelling and to check for any tumors. If they find fluid in the pericardium, they will order an echocardiogram. This is to check the heart's function and see whether the lining of the heart has thickened.
If the doctor is able to determine there is a tumor or fluid accumulation in the pericardium, they will perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and determine if it is malignant. When they conduct a biopsy doctors will take small amounts of tissue or fluid and send them to the lab for further testing.
Many victims of pericardial sarcoidosis will not survive because the treatment options are more limited than for other types. New treatment methods are being investigated that could provide better outcomes for patients. One such approach is gene therapy, which entails the addition or removal of genes from a person's body to fight specific diseases. Another option is immunotherapy, which aims to strengthen a patient's immune system to fight cancer.