Mesothelioma and Asbestosis
There are a few key differences between mesothelioma and asbestosis, despite the fact that both diseases result from asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma on the other hand, is a cancer.
Mesothelioma occurs in the lining of certain organs and tissues, including those that cover the lungs (pleura) or the membrane that covers the abdominal cavity (peritoneum).
It is sometimes difficult to diagnose mesothelioma because symptoms resemble those of other conditions. This is because asbestos-related diseases have a long latency period.
Signs and symptoms
Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the mesothelium, which is a layer of tissue that surrounds certain organs and cavities in the body. It is most often found in the lungs but may also manifest in other areas of the body such as the stomach the heart, stomach, and the abdomen.
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on its type and stage. There are however some common symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, weight loss, and chest pains. Patients with mesothelioma typically suffer from anemia and fatigue as well. Mesothelioma can spread to other parts of the body. When it does, it is called metastatic mesothelioma. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor immediately.
Asbestosis usually develops after years of exposure to asbestos dust and fibres. It is a slow-moving illness and, due to its long time of latency, many people don't recognize they have it until long after exposure. Asbestosis isn't as hazardous as mesothelioma since it does not spread. However it can still cause lung problems and respiratory issues.
Asbestos exposure is a cause of mesothelioma and asbestosis as well as asbestosis. The primary difference between these two diseases is mesothelioma which is a malignant tumor that develops within the mesothelium. Asbestosis is not.
A person suffering from pleural cancer can experience a constant cough that isn't productive and chest pain. Some patients report experiencing difficulty swallowing and a change in the shape of their fingers, which is known as clubbing. Certain patients with pleural mesothelioma have the formation of abdominal fluid and abdomen, which is known as ascites.
Mesothelioma treatment is more aggressive and focuses on increasing the life time. However, the method for treating asbestosis is not as intensive. Asbestosis treatment is intended to improve quality of life and alleviate symptoms. This includes taking the fluid out of the chest using a procedure called thoracentesis and using pain medications. Asbestosis patients can be treated for serious cases using lung transplants, but this is not a possibility for mesothelioma patients. Palliative care is offered to mesothelioma patients, and focuses primarily on managing symptoms and improving the quality of life.
Diagnosis
Asbestos fibres inhalation can cause several symptoms, such as shortness of breathe, cough, and fatigue. These symptoms can be difficult to diagnose since they often resemble other ailments.
Asbestosis is a progressive lung condition that causes scarring in the respiratory system and lungs which makes it difficult for people to breathe. It can also affect other organs, causing abdominal pain, fluid accumulation and changes in the shape of fingers and toes (finger clubbing).
Both mesothelioma (a cancerous condition) and asbestosis can be caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a collection of minerals made up of microscopic fibers. Both diseases are caused by this exposure however, they have distinct symptoms and a distinct period of latency. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, is found within the mesothelium, the protective layer that covers specific organs and cavities in the body. It is located in the lungs, abdomen and heart. Mesothelioma is more likely to form when a person has been exposed to asbestos in several places.
To diagnose mesothelioma in patients, doctors usually order chest Xrays and CT scans to check for visible signs of lung cancer. They may also perform the biopsy to gain a better understanding of the type of mesothelioma a patient has. There are many methods to take mesothelium for a biopsy that include bronchoscopy, needle biopsy, or video-assisted thoracoscopy surgery.
The kind of biopsy needed will depend on the mesothelioma's location and what part of the mesothelium that it is located in. The symptoms of the patient and their exposure history can also be used to identify mesothelioma.
Based on the type of cancer, a patient may be treated by radiation or chemotherapy to treat symptoms. In some cases it is possible to use surgery to remove the affected tissue and reduce tumor size. Currently, no cure is available for mesothelioma, but patients can receive palliative treatments to improve their quality of living. Both asbestosis and mesothelioma have an increased risk of recurrence even after the treatment has been completed. This is why it's essential to keep regular follow-up appointments. A mesothelioma expert can utilize this to determine recurrences, and monitor the progress of the disease.
Treatment
Both mesothelioma and asbestosis occur as a result of exposure to asbestos. Although Harlingen asbestos attorneys are incurable, treatment options may prolong the life of patients for decades. Mesothelioma, a type of cancer, occurs in the mesothelium, which is a layer of lung tissue as well as the chest cavity and abdomen. Mesothelioma is different from lung cancer, however symptoms may resemble the symptoms of either.
Asbestosis, a less well-known condition that is caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers in the air. They can cause irritation to lung tissue, leading to scarring that impedes breathing. Inhalation of asbestos also increases the risk of developing lung infections. Smoking increases the risk of the condition. A doctor will examine the patient and listen to the lung if asbestosis is detected. In some cases, a doctor may order chest Xrays and lung function tests.
If mesothelioma is suspected, a biopsy will be taken of the pleural mesothelium to be tested in a laboratory. The procedure involves inserting a needle into the abdomen, chest or groin area, and then removing the small amount of fluid and then examining that fluid for signs of malignant cell. Based on the type of cancer, either chemotherapy or surgery can be recommended.
The removal of asbestos-laden tissue (also called decortication or pleurectomy) can improve the quality of life of patients with severe asbestosis and reduce the severity of the complications. A doctor may also drain the chest cavity of fluid through a procedure known as thoracentesis and, in some instances performing the surgical procedure called pleurodesis in order to alleviate breathing problems caused by asbestosis or other conditions.
In addition to pain-relieving treatments doctors can also help patients control their breathlessness and other symptoms by arranging regular follow-up appointments as well as pulmonary rehabilitation exercises. They can also prescribe oxygen treatment and, in certain cases, suggest the donation of a lungs.
People suffering from lung diseases that result from asbestos are at a high risk of developing health issues like heart disease and cancer. To lower the risk it is recommended that they stop smoking and stay current with vaccinations for influenza and pneumonia. They should also contact their doctor right away when they experience shortness of breath, coughing or fever.
Prognosis
Inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause mesothelioma, as well as asbestosis, lung disease. Both diseases share similar symptoms, such as chest discomfort, chronic coughing, and shortness of breathe. Mesothelioma, however, is a type of cancer, whereas asbestosis isn't. Mesothelioma as well as asbestosis are both incurable and can take years to manifest.
The prognosis of mesothelioma varies on a number of factors that include the stage, location, and the type of cells. Epithelioid mesothelioma is the most common type has a higher chance of success than biphasic and sarcomatoid varieties. The prognosis of mesothelioma could also be affected by a patient's gender and age. Patients who are younger and females tend to have better odds than men.
The latency period also plays a major role in determining a mesothelioma diagnosis. The longer a person is exposed to asbestos the more likely they are to develop symptoms. The time of mesothelioma's latency can vary between 10 and 50 years after exposure.
It is often difficult to identify mesothelioma due to the fact that it is extremely rare. This is particularly so in the beginning stages when symptoms are more mild and can be misdiagnosed as a different condition. Mesothelioma cells may resemble those of other types lung cancer, and even lung disease and it is therefore essential for doctors to thoroughly look over pathology reports and ask for an additional opinion from a different lab.
Both mesothelioma and asbestosis can cause a buildup of fluid in the lungs, which is known as a pleural effusion. Pleural effusions can be a sign of both diseases however, they aren't life-threatening.
The symptoms of asbestosis are similar to the symptoms of other lung disorders, such as chronic obstruction of the lungs (COPD). Asbestosis isn't a cancer and does not expand throughout the body as mesothelioma can. Asbestosis sufferers may suffer from symptoms for a long time and may require oxygen therapy. Contact an advocate for patients if you or someone you know have questions about asbestosis or mesothelioma symptoms. We can help you find a doctor who can identify and prescribe a treatment plan.