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Mesothelioma, Its Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
by Abhinav
http://www.ultimate-websolutions.com
About Mesothelioma -
Mesothelioma (cancer of the mesothelium) is a disease in
which cells of the mesothelium become abnormal and divide
without control or order. They can invade and damage nearby
tissues and organs. Cancer cells can also metastasize
(spread) from their original site to other parts of the
body. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the pleura or
peritoneum.
What is the mesothelium?
The mesothelium is a membrane that covers and protects most
of the internal organs of the body. It is composed of two
layers of cells: One layer immediately surrounds the organ;
the other forms a sac around it. The mesothelium produces a
lubricating fluid that is released between these layers,
allowing moving organs (such as the beating heart and the
expanding and contracting lungs) to glide easily against
adjacent structures.
How common is mesothelioma?
Although reported incidence rates have increased in the
past 20 years, mesothelioma is still a relatively rare
cancer. About 2,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed
in the United States each year. Mesothelioma occurs more
often in men than in women and risk increases with age, but
this disease can appear in either men or women at any age.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 30 to 50
years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath and
pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the
pleura are often symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. Symptoms
of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss and
abdominal pain and swelling due to a buildup of fluid in
the abdomen. Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may
include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities,
anemia, and fever. If the cancer has spread beyond the
mesothelium to other parts of the body, symptoms may
include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck
or face.
These symptoms may be caused by mesothelioma or by other,
less serious conditions. It is important to see a doctor
about any of these symptoms. Only a doctor can make a
diagnosis.
The early symptoms of mesothelioma are often ignored,
because they may be caused by a variety of ailments. These
symptoms include:
pain in the lower back or at the side of the chest
shortness of breath
difficulty swallowing
cough
fever
fatigue
abdominal pain, weight loss , and nausea and vomiting
(symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma)
Causes of Mesothelioma -
The primary risk factor for developing mesothelioma is
asbestos exposure. In the past, asbestos was used as a very
effective type of insulation. The use of this material,
however, has been declining since the link between asbestos
and mesothelioma has become known. It is thought that when
the fibers of asbestos are inhaled, some of them reach the
ends of the small airways and penetrate into the pleural
lining. There the fibers may directly harm mesothelial
cells and eventually cause mesothelioma. If the fibers are
swallowed, they can reach the abdominal cavity, where they
can contribute to the formation of peritoneal mesothelioma.
Exposure to certain types of radiation as well as to a
chemical related to asbestos known as zeolite has also been
related to incidences of mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Treatment -
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. Surgery is a common treatment for
mesothelioma. The doctor may remove part of the lining of
the chest or abdomen and some of the tissue around it. For
cancer of the pleura (pleural mesothelioma), a lung may be
removed in an operation called a pneumonectomy. Sometimes
part of the diaphragm, the muscle below the lungs that
helps with breathing, is also removed.
About The Author - Mesothelioma Cancer Support - If you or
a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or have
been affected by exposure to benzene, beryllium, manganese,
asbestos, and other toxic substances, their trial lawyers
can help. Finding the right legal representation is likely
weighing heavily on your mind. Paul, Hanley & Harley LLP,
that fight to win for victims of mesothelioma cancer.
http://www.mesothelioma-cancer-support.com
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