What is Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is one of the rare forms of cancer. The term is used to refer to a cancerous tumor which primarily involves the mesothelial cells of the human organs, usually abdominal organs or lungs. Since most mesothelioma cancer cases are unsuccessful, it is just important to know some mesothelioma information to make sure you are not afflicted with this threatening disease.

The most common type of this disease is called the pleural mesothelioma. This cancer attacks the pleura, a thin membrane located between the chest cavity and the lungs. This membrane provides the lungs with a lubricated surface to prevent the lungs from chaffing against the chest walls. Therefore, a pleural mesothelioma is also called the lung cancer.

Another common form of mesothelioma cancer is called the peritoneal mesothelioma. This type of cancer attacks the peritoneum, the membrane enclosing the abdomen organs. While the peritoneal mesothelioma is not as common as the first form, it tends to be more threatening and invasive, and may therefore result in a shorter life period for the patient.

Mesothelioma Information - Brief History

This is the most common question asked by persons diagnosed with mesothelioma. The answer to this common question is also common - asbestos exposure. When the person is diagnosed in the U.S., its onset is usually connected to the history of asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a type of mineral used for decades as a main thermal insulation material. In the 1920's, asbestos had been widely known as a carcinogen, which means that it can cause cancer. However, this material continued to be used as an insulator until the early part of 1970, and is still present in many buildings today.

One unique feature of different asbestos-related diseases is the long latency period between the exposure to asbestos fibers and dusts and the onset of the disease. The latency period for mesothelioma cancer is between 20 and 50 years, or even more. This only means that a person might have been exposed to asbestos many years ago but developed mesothelioma only today.

Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Mesothelioma

The signs and symptoms of this disease can be very general; that is why they are often neglected and ignored. In many cases, the signs and symptoms for this cancer type arise between 2 and 3 months before the cancer is fully diagnosed.

The management of mesothelioma disease largely depends on the stage of the tumor. Early diagnosis of the disease and surgical intervention can possibly prolong life expectancy. However, depending on the physical condition and on the age of the patient, surgery may not be a possible option. Aside from surgical options, chemotherapy and radiation treatment may be helpful in the overall treatment of the disease. Home care and pain management are usual alternatives at the later stages of this disease.

Where Do I Go After Being Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?

This is important mesothelioma information you should know. After being diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is very important to know and understand the treatment options available for you. You oncologist or doctor will definitely provide you with mesothelioma information as well as the treatment options you have.

You should also know about your legal rights. This is one of the most important mesothelioma information you should know. If you are diagnosed with the mesothelioma or other diseases related to asbestos, you were likely exposed to asbestos dusts and fibers. Many asbestos insulation products manufacturers already knew for decades about the hazards and dangers asbestos brings; however, they made a business decision of not warning people about these hazards. As a result, the patients may get a right of recovery against those business owners to help defray the costs of mesothelioma treatment and provide the compensation for the sufferings and pain.