Mesothelioma
Rare cancer definitively linked to asbestos exposure
Mesothelioma is an incurable, rare form of cancer of the lining of the lungs and peritoneum. The only known cause of mesothelioma in the United States is exposure to asbestos. It is an aggressive form of cancer, often fatal within 18–24 months of diagnosis. There are 2,000 to 3,000 new cases diagnosed each year alone.
Often mesothelioma symptoms do not become evident until decades after your asbestos exposure. Even then, they are difficult to diagnose, as they mimic other diseases. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is not usually diagnosed until the cancer has reached an advanced stage.
Cause and types of mesothelioma
Inhaled asbestos fibers invade the mesothelium in a victim's chest and abdomen and cause those cells to divide abnormally. In malignant mesothelioma, cancerous cells invade the lining of the chest, abdomen, or even the heart, resulting in:
Pleural mesothelioma
The most common type of mesothelioma is called pleural mesothelioma, affecting the membrane lining the chest cavity and lungs and causing a buildup of fluids there that makes normal breathing difficult or impossible. Symptoms of this form include recent onset of shortness of breath, recent increase in shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, weight loss, weakness, and—the most common finding upon physical examination—an accumulation of fluid called pleural effusion. This form accounts for up to 75 percent of all cases of mesothelioma.
Peritoneal mesothelioma
The next most common form of the disease is peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the abdomen. Here, tumors develop and press on the internal organs. This pressure produces symptoms such as pain and swelling in the abdomen, chest pain, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing.
Pericardial mesothelioma
The rarest form of mesothelioma is pericardial. This can occur when asbestos fibers travel from the lungs to the mesothelial tissue that surrounds the heart. As the resulting cancerous tumors expand, they restrict heart function and sometimes cause cardiac failure. Symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma include chest pain, heart palpitations, fatigue, and night sweats.
Mesothelioma is not lung cancer and is not caused by smoking.
Available treatment for mesothelioma is limited
There is ongoing research into the treatment for mesothelioma. Current treatment options include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. But because this is a relatively rare form of cancer, many doctors do not have extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of mesothelioma. Only a few major cancer centers have in-depth knowledge of this dreadful disease. You can learn more about mesothelioma treatment options and approaches on our resource links page.
Contact our Florida mesothelioma attorneys
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or an asbestos-related cancer, reach out to Anita Pryor or Alan Pickert for help from an experienced mesothelioma lawyer. We serve clients throughout Florida, and can travel from our Jacksonville office to meet you at your convenience. We offer free initial consultations and operate on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing for our services unless we achieve a settlement for your case.
