Asbestos Cancer Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma Asbestos Lung Cancer

Asbestos cancer mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the lining of the body’s internal organs, a thin layer of cells known as the mesothelium. While very thin, this layer of cells is vitally important to organ function and the health of the inner body structures.

Asbestos exposure is strongly associated with several potentially fatal diseases and illnesses, the most serious of which is malignant mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers are smaller than other airborne particles and cause serious long-term consequences by penetrating the lung and infiltrating organ tissues. Asbestos-related diseases generally develop many years, even decades, after initial exposure.

As with many other illnesses, those who smoke or have a preexisting disease have a higher risk of developing cancers caused by asbestos. For instance, people who have developed non-malignant, pleural lung diseases as result of exposure to asbestos have a greater risk for developing asbestos cancer mesothelioma.

People who usually develop mesothelioma have had exposure to asbestos usually many years before. In fact, the symptoms may not even appear until 30 to 50 years after being exposed to asbestos.

One of the most common symptoms of mesothelioma is a pleural effusion, or an accumulation of fluid between the parietal pleura and the visceral pleura. Both of these membranes are covered with mesothelial cells which, under normal conditions, produce a small amount of fluid that acts as a lubricant between the chest wall and the lung. Any excess fluid is absorbed by blood and lymph vessels maintaining a balance. When too much fluid forms, the result is an effusion. If you have had a history of exposure to asbestos and develop those symptoms, you should seek medical attention.

Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient’s age and general health. Standard treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Sometimes, these treatments are combined.