Pericardial Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Pericardial Mesothelioma is a condition that affects the pericardium, which is a part of the lining of the heart. This type of mesothelioma can cause symptoms like chest pain and fatigue that may mimic other ailments.
It could take years for these symptoms to appear after exposure to asbestos. This makes it difficult to make a diagnosis. The best way to get a correct diagnosis is for patients to discuss their experience of asbestos exposure with their physician.
What is the cause of Pericardial Mesothelioma?
Pericardial mesothelioma develops in the thin membrane that lines the heart, referred to as the pericardium. It is among the rarest types of mesothelioma that account for one-third to 2% of all mesothelioma cases. Like all forms of mesothelioma, the pericardial type is also connected to asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally, was used for decades in a variety of commercial and household items. Its fibers can be easily inhaled, swallowed, or caught in the linings of the chest and abdominal cavities. Mesothelioma occurs when the fibrils irritate and form tumors.
A few doctors have discovered a connection between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma pericardia. While they don't know how asbestos causes this cancer of the pericardium however, they do know that approximately a quarter all mesothelioma patients are affected. This is in part because it typically occurs decades after asbestos exposure.
The majority of people exposed to asbestos develop pleural msothelioma. The cancer develops in the lung's lining as well as the chest wall. They may also develop testicular or peritoneal msothelioma that is found male testes. If they are also diagnosed with pericardial melanoma, it is difficult to identify because symptoms often resemble those of other heart conditions.
The symptoms of pericardial cancer tend to progress slowly and may impact the ability to breathe. The symptoms include chest pain, breathing problems and a build-up of fluid around the heart referred to as pericardial effusion. A doctor can identify this condition by running an echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound of the heart, or an pericardial biopsy.
A mesothelioma specialist will determine if a patient suffers from this rare form of the disease and assist them in finding the most effective treatment. Other factors, such as genetics, a weak immune system, and exposure to radiation can increase the risk of mesothelioma pericardial. A family history of the disease also increases the risk.
Symptoms
Pericardial mesothelioma also occurs by asbestos fibers affecting the heart's tissue. This rare form of cancer, which makes up less than one percent of mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in people who have been exposed to asbestos in their work environment or in close proximity to those who have been affected by
asbestos legal. Pericardial Mesothelioma is characterized by various symptoms that are difficult to identify.
Pericardial mesothelioma can occur when asbestos particles stick to the lining of the pericardium and begin to grow into tumors which thicken the membrane. Doctors do not know how pericardial cancer develops, however, they believe asbestos particles are responsible for the development. The majority of doctors believe that the cancer spread from another part of the body, such as the lungs, abdominal cavity (peritoneum), and then to the lining inside the heart.
The mesothelium is the lining of both the chest and abdomen. This is the area where the majority of mesothelioma tumours develop. The disease may also begin in the lining of the peritoneum or in the testicles, however this is much less frequent.
Symptoms of mesothelioma, including pericardial mesothelioma, can take decades to manifest after exposure to asbestos. The symptoms may be similar to those of other illnesses, and include chest pain, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and weight loss. In some instances, pericardial msothelioma can cause clubbing. This is an illness where the fingers swell up and look rounder than normal.
Doctors identify pericardial mesothelioma on the basis of the patient's medical history and symptoms. They will ask about past exposure to asbestos and perform imaging tests, such as x-rays, CT scans and an echocardiogram to look at the pericardium. To complete the diagnosis they will also collect an x-ray or a sample of tissue.
Pericardial mesothelioma is a very rare condition, and many doctors do not recognize the signs. Patients should report all symptoms to their doctor to be tested for mesothelioma or other conditions. Bring our Symptom Checklist to your appointment can help ensure your doctor is aware all of your symptoms and accurately determine if you are suffering from.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of pericardial mesothelioma is difficult. The symptoms may be similar to other heart ailments and may not show up until the disease is advanced. Moreover, asbestos exposure can occur years before the onset of pericardial mesothelioma, making the connection difficult to detect. Nonetheless, anyone who has had a history of asbestos should share their exposure with their doctor and ask about asbestos-related symptoms.
The cause of mesothelioma of the pericardial region is not known however, doctors believe that it occurs when asbestos fibers migrate from the lungs to the pericardium and irritate the tissue there. As time passes the affected tissue transforms into cancerous cells, which then grow into tumors and thicken the pericardium. Fluid builds up around the heart due to the tumors and the pressure that results puts pressure on the organ and leads to symptoms.
Typically, doctors perform imaging tests such as Xrays and CT scans to detect tumors or excess fluids. They then run tests on blood to confirm the presence of mesothelioma and determine the extent of cancerous cells spreading.
Patients suffering from mesothelioma should be ready to discuss their work history with their doctor. Asbestos workers are at a higher risk of developing asbestos-related diseases which include lung cancer and mesothelioma. Patients who have had a history of exposure to asbestos could be eligible for compensation in a mesothelioma suit.
If you or someone close to you has been exposed to asbestos and has been diagnosed with pericardial cancer, a lawyer with experience in
asbestos litigation can help you know your legal options. Contact Madeksho Law Firm today for a free consultation. There is no charge unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
Madeksho Law Firm has helped hundreds of veterans who have asbestos-related cases. Our lawyers are knowledgeable of the laws that apply to asbestos victims, and can assist you in obtaining the benefits you deserve. Start your claim today by filling out our online form or calling us. We will guide you through the entire process from start to finish. Our number is 1-888-654-7635. You can also download our free Veterans Packet to learn about the benefits available to you.
Treatment
Doctors must conduct physical examinations and ask patients questions regarding their asbestos exposure to identify pericardial a mesothelioma. They can then use various tests, such as X-rays, CT Scans, echocardiograms and biopsies, to locate the symptoms and determine if there's fluid buildup in the pericardium.
It can take as long as 60 years for asbestos fibers reach the lining of the heart and cause cancerous cells to grow. Due to this long time period of latency, it's essential for anyone suffering from mesothelioma-related symptoms to consult a doctor immediately. They should also be honest about any previous exposure to asbestos so that they can ensure they receive the most effective treatment.