Mesothelioma-what Does This Mean?

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the mesothelium, a protective lining that covers and protects most internal organs in the body. The mesothelium has two layers, the visceral layer covering the organ, and secondly, the cranial layer or outer layer, which forms the street around him.

The mesothelium has different names depending on the location in the body. The pleura is the name for the mesothelial tissue surrounding the lungs and chest cavity lining. The peritoneum covers most organs in the abdominal cavity, while the pericardium lines and protects the heart. The mesothelium produces a lubricating fluid that allows organs to move it in and glide easily. Fluid allows the lungs to breathe and the heart to expand and contract without creating any type of internal friction.

Like other forms of cancer, mesothelioma occurs when cells become abnormal growth and division, or out of control. When someone has mesothelioma, it is useful lubricating fluid described above may be in the course of excretion. This excess fluid encases organs with a thick layer of tumor tissue, which is known as the bark of a layer.

In advanced cases, cancer cells metastasize spread (), or grow and invade other organs and extension to other parts of the body. Most people who suffer from the disease have cancer affecting the lining of the lungs. Sometimes, the disease occurs in the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneal mesothelioma), or the lining of the heart (pericardial mesothelioma).

Symptoms of mesothelioma are common to a wide range of diseases, which means that it is difficult to diagnose. Unique types of treatment are still studied through clinical trials and research, but in general, the cancer does not respond well to most treatments, which are currently offered.

Mesothelioma is caused by breathing or ingesting asbestos fibers. The coarse fibers cause scarring in the mesothelial tissue, which can cause asbestosis or pleural plaques. Unfortunately, the scarring can also lead to cancer known as mesothelioma. It often takes 20 - 50 years after exposure to asbestos before the symptoms develop. This period is known as the latency period. Given the latency period, the disease often affects men and women who are at least 50 years of age, and that worked with asbestos between 20 and 50 years ago.

Many employees worked 20 to 50 years did not use any type of protection in the workplace, and were exposed to asbestos dust or fibers. However, many companies which employ workers had full knowledge that asbestos is dangerous and that exposure to asbestos would harm the health of many employees. Insulators, plasterers, electricians, pipe fitters, mechanics, iron workers, shipbuilders, ship workers, brick layers, carpenters and other craftsmen are some examples of which are likely to workers for work with asbestos in the day-to-day basis. Also at risk are the families of these workers, such as asbestos fibers may be brought into the home on clothing, skin, hair, or the worker.

Unfortunately, millions of people have been exposed to asbestos over the years. Only now we could see the disastrous effects of asbestos exposure in the workplace. As it is with other types of cancer, early diagnosis is important for effective treatment of disease. If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, especially in the workplace, and if you stand on the common warning signs then you should see your doctor immediately for appropriate tests and evaluations Read More!