Q. What is Mesothelioma?
A. Mesothelioma is a rare but potentially fatal cancer that affects a layer of the body called as mesothelium. Typically mesothelioma develops in the lining of the chest or abdominal cavity. There are three forms of mesothelioma:
1. Pleural mesothelioma. Mesothelioma that affects the coverings of the lungs.
2. Peritoneal mesothelioms. Mesothelioma that affects the covering of the abdominal organs.
3. Pericardial mesothelioma. Mesothelioma that affects the covering of the heart.
Pleural is the most common followed by peritoneal and lastly pericardial.
Q. What are the causes of mesothelioma?
A. Asbestos is the number one cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fine fiber material that is resistant to heat. These fibers when inhaled get into the air passages and then reach the pleural cells. The asbestos injures the pleural cells and this injury leads to either benign or malignant transformation. Asbestos is found in many types of industrial supplies and equipments. Asbestos exposure does not lead to mesothelioma immediately. Often it takes decades before the person manifests the symptoms of the disease. Smoking does not lead to mesothelioma though the risk is more for a smoker exposed to asbestos.
Q. What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
A. Often mistaken for pneumonia, mesothelioma is very difficult to diagnose based on symptoms alone. The most common symptoms include:
Persistent cough.
Shortness of breath.
Chest pains.
Swelling up of face and neck.
Coughing up blood.
Nausea and vomiting.
Weight loss.
Loss of appetite.
Not everyone exposed to asbestos will develop mesothelioma. However keep in mind the risk of asbestos exposure and mesothelioma and speaking to a doctor will help in screening and early detection of the disease.
Q. What treatment options are available for mesothelioma?
A. Mesothelioma is often a very difficult disease to diagnose and treat. The various treatment options include:
Surgery in early stages to reduce tumor burden.
Chemotherapy with agents like Cisplatin.
Radiotherapy.
Gene therapy.
Immunotherapy.
Photodynamic therapy.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rajgopal_Venkataraman
Showing posts with label Mesothelioma. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mesothelioma. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Mesothelioma - A Blunder If Not Diagnosed
Mesothelioma is just one of the diseases that people can develop after prolonged asbestos exposure. It is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells which cover the outer surface of most of the body's internal body organs. This is caused by the exposure to asbestos which was around quite a lot in certain areas before it was banned. It could have been contracted in a number of ways from simply breathing it in to picking it up second hand from other people's clothing, hair or skin.
Mesothelioma can take various different forms and can develop in the tissues covering the lungs or abdomen. The most common type diagnosed is pleural mesothelioma which affects the tissues lining the lungs, called the pleura. Fortunately, it is unusual for this disease to spread to other parts of the body. When it does, it doesn't usually cause any problematic symptoms.
Most people who develop mesothelioma will have worked in jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles. The most commonly affected trades were dockers, roofers, plumbers, electricians, shipyard workers and power station workers. However, it is possible for someone to contract the illness even if they have never had direct asbestos exposure. For example, family members may have breathed in the dust particles from the clothing of someone who worked with it.
There are various different symptoms that people can look out for if they know there is a chance they could have mesothelioma. Shortness of breath, a prolonged cough, chest pain, weight loss, abdominal swelling and fever are just some of the signs to look out for. These symptoms may not start showing until 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure, however which is why many people don't realize what it is at the time.
Diagnosing mesothelioma can be very difficult because the symptoms are similar to many other conditions. For this reason it is extremely important that doctors are made aware of any history to asbestos exposure so they know what to look out for. In order to make a proper diagnosis, a physical examination, a chest x - ray and lung function tests will be performed in order to see if there is any pleural thickening, which is common among those who worked around asbestos. If anything suspicious is found a biopsy will be performed so that a diagnosis can be confirmed and treatment can begin.
Many people have enlisted the help of an asbestos lawyer in order to claim compensation against asbestos manufacturers. The first lawsuit was in 1929 and since then people have successfully won billions of dollars from these companies who neglected to implement safety measures to protect workers against exposure. Mesothelioma Attorneys often take some good percentage of the compensation so watch out before you go ahead and hire any one.
Mesothelioma can take various different forms and can develop in the tissues covering the lungs or abdomen. The most common type diagnosed is pleural mesothelioma which affects the tissues lining the lungs, called the pleura. Fortunately, it is unusual for this disease to spread to other parts of the body. When it does, it doesn't usually cause any problematic symptoms.
Most people who develop mesothelioma will have worked in jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles. The most commonly affected trades were dockers, roofers, plumbers, electricians, shipyard workers and power station workers. However, it is possible for someone to contract the illness even if they have never had direct asbestos exposure. For example, family members may have breathed in the dust particles from the clothing of someone who worked with it.
There are various different symptoms that people can look out for if they know there is a chance they could have mesothelioma. Shortness of breath, a prolonged cough, chest pain, weight loss, abdominal swelling and fever are just some of the signs to look out for. These symptoms may not start showing until 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure, however which is why many people don't realize what it is at the time.
Diagnosing mesothelioma can be very difficult because the symptoms are similar to many other conditions. For this reason it is extremely important that doctors are made aware of any history to asbestos exposure so they know what to look out for. In order to make a proper diagnosis, a physical examination, a chest x - ray and lung function tests will be performed in order to see if there is any pleural thickening, which is common among those who worked around asbestos. If anything suspicious is found a biopsy will be performed so that a diagnosis can be confirmed and treatment can begin.
Many people have enlisted the help of an asbestos lawyer in order to claim compensation against asbestos manufacturers. The first lawsuit was in 1929 and since then people have successfully won billions of dollars from these companies who neglected to implement safety measures to protect workers against exposure. Mesothelioma Attorneys often take some good percentage of the compensation so watch out before you go ahead and hire any one.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
INNOVIVE Pharmaceuticals Begins Enrollment in Phase I Study of INNO-305 Peptide Immunotherapy in AML, MDS, Mesothelioma and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
NEW YORK -- INNOVIVE Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (OTCBB:IVPH), a biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Manhattan, announced today that a Phase I clinical trial investigating INNO-305 in acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), mesothelioma and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has enrolled its first patient. The trial is being conducted by Lee Krug, M.D., of the Thoracic Oncology Service, and Peter Maslak, M.D., of the Leukemia Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.
The study is an open label fixed dose trial and will study the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and preliminary efficacy of INNO-305. The vaccine will be tested in patients with hematologic malignancies and solid tumors for which there is evidence of WT1 expression.
INNO-305 was invented by David A. Scheinberg, M.D., Ph.D., Chairman of the Molecular Pharmacology and Chemistry Program at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Scheinberg notes that pre-clinical research has demonstrated promising characteristics with significant potential as a cancer therapeutic.
INNO-305, a WT1 peptide therapeutic vaccine, is unique among WT1 peptide immunotherapies because of its ability to stimulate both CD8 and CD4 T-cells. It is believed that stimulating both types of T-cells may result in a more robust and ubiquitous immune response. As an added measure, INNO-305 utilizes an approach in which the wild-type WT1 peptide sequences are altered to improve the ability of the drug to activate T-cells.
Clinical studies with other WT1 peptide immunotherapies have already shown promising results in patients with AML and other cancers. By using modified, non-natural peptides that stimulate both CD4 and CD8 T-cells, INNO-305 may offer an advantage over other WT1 peptide immunotherapy approaches.
"With the initiation of the INNO-305 trial, Innovive now has three clinical stage oncology compounds. We have taken significant strides over the last twelve months and continue to build a meaningful oncology portfolio," said Steven Kelly, President and CEO, Innovive Pharmaceuticals.
Innovive licensed worldwide development rights for INNO-305 in January 2006 from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York.
About INNOVIVE Pharmaceuticals
Innovive Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a public biopharmaceutical company headquartered in New York, N.Y. The company's mission is to acquire, develop and commercialize novel therapeutics addressing significant unmet medical needs in the fields of oncology and hematology. For additional information visit www.innovivepharma.com.
This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause INNOVIVE's actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results and expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from these statements. Among other things, there can be no assurances that any of INNOVIVE's development efforts relating to its product candidates will be successful. Other risks that may affect forward-looking information contained in this press release include the possibility of being unable to obtain regulatory approval of INNOVIVE's product candidates, the risk that the results of clinical trials may not support INNOVIVE's claims, INNOVIVE's reliance on third party researchers to develop its product candidates and its lack of experience in developing pharmaceutical products. These and other risks are discussed in INNOVIVE's Registration Statement on Form 10 filed with the SEC. INNOVIVE assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law.
The study is an open label fixed dose trial and will study the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and preliminary efficacy of INNO-305. The vaccine will be tested in patients with hematologic malignancies and solid tumors for which there is evidence of WT1 expression.
INNO-305 was invented by David A. Scheinberg, M.D., Ph.D., Chairman of the Molecular Pharmacology and Chemistry Program at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Scheinberg notes that pre-clinical research has demonstrated promising characteristics with significant potential as a cancer therapeutic.
INNO-305, a WT1 peptide therapeutic vaccine, is unique among WT1 peptide immunotherapies because of its ability to stimulate both CD8 and CD4 T-cells. It is believed that stimulating both types of T-cells may result in a more robust and ubiquitous immune response. As an added measure, INNO-305 utilizes an approach in which the wild-type WT1 peptide sequences are altered to improve the ability of the drug to activate T-cells.
Clinical studies with other WT1 peptide immunotherapies have already shown promising results in patients with AML and other cancers. By using modified, non-natural peptides that stimulate both CD4 and CD8 T-cells, INNO-305 may offer an advantage over other WT1 peptide immunotherapy approaches.
"With the initiation of the INNO-305 trial, Innovive now has three clinical stage oncology compounds. We have taken significant strides over the last twelve months and continue to build a meaningful oncology portfolio," said Steven Kelly, President and CEO, Innovive Pharmaceuticals.
Innovive licensed worldwide development rights for INNO-305 in January 2006 from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York.
About INNOVIVE Pharmaceuticals
Innovive Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a public biopharmaceutical company headquartered in New York, N.Y. The company's mission is to acquire, develop and commercialize novel therapeutics addressing significant unmet medical needs in the fields of oncology and hematology. For additional information visit www.innovivepharma.com.
This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause INNOVIVE's actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results and expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from these statements. Among other things, there can be no assurances that any of INNOVIVE's development efforts relating to its product candidates will be successful. Other risks that may affect forward-looking information contained in this press release include the possibility of being unable to obtain regulatory approval of INNOVIVE's product candidates, the risk that the results of clinical trials may not support INNOVIVE's claims, INNOVIVE's reliance on third party researchers to develop its product candidates and its lack of experience in developing pharmaceutical products. These and other risks are discussed in INNOVIVE's Registration Statement on Form 10 filed with the SEC. INNOVIVE assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Mesothelioma - Symptoms of Mesothelioma Cancer
Do you know what the most common symptoms of mesothelioma cancer are? Well, the most common symptoms are shortness of breath and pain in the chest. These symptoms occur due to a buildup of fluid in the pleura, what is known as Pleural Mesothelioma. However there are other symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma, those may include weight loss, abdominal pain and swelling, this is due to an accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.
Peritoneal mesothelioma may include other uncomfortable symptoms too, such as bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia and fever. However these symptoms can appear before if malignant cancerous cells have spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, and other symptoms such as trouble swallowing, pain, and swelling of the neck or face may appear.
Mesothelioma or other less serious conditions may caused these symptoms, therefore the importance of going to a doctor if you feel any of these symptoms, because only an expert like him can make a correct diagnosis.
Mesothelioma cancer rate has increased over the past 20 years and although this disease is not as common as other cancer pathologies, the number of new diagnosed cases in the United States has risen up to 2,000 per year.
According to experts the major risk factor for developing Mesothelioma lies in working with asbestos, so if you are a asbestos worker remember following the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommendations in order to reduce your risk.
Peritoneal mesothelioma may include other uncomfortable symptoms too, such as bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia and fever. However these symptoms can appear before if malignant cancerous cells have spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, and other symptoms such as trouble swallowing, pain, and swelling of the neck or face may appear.
Mesothelioma or other less serious conditions may caused these symptoms, therefore the importance of going to a doctor if you feel any of these symptoms, because only an expert like him can make a correct diagnosis.
Mesothelioma cancer rate has increased over the past 20 years and although this disease is not as common as other cancer pathologies, the number of new diagnosed cases in the United States has risen up to 2,000 per year.
According to experts the major risk factor for developing Mesothelioma lies in working with asbestos, so if you are a asbestos worker remember following the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommendations in order to reduce your risk.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Mesothelioma - Treatments For Mesothelioma Cancer
Mesothelioma cancer is currently treated through three treatments, depending on the cancer location, the disease stage, and the patient's general health and age. These treatments are surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, which sometimes are combined to fight the disease in so far as possible.
In a surgery, one of the most common treatments for mesothelioma, the doctor removes part of the lining of the abdomen or the chest and some tissue around it. In a pneumonectomy, the doctor may also remove one lung when the patient has pleural mesothelioma or cancer of the pleura. In other surgical procedure, the doctor may also remove part of the diaphragm, the muscle below the lungs that helps with breathing. Through these procedures, the medical specialist shall try to excise tumourous tissue arising from this cancer disease. As these operations will reduce the patient's respiratory capacity, the surgeon will evaluate the patient's ability to function after a lung tissue removal, before performing a pneumonectomy.
Another method to fight Mesothelioma is chemotherapy or the use of anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. These drugs are given to the patient by an intravenous procedure, an injection into a vein. Currently, experts are studying the effectiveness of intracavitary chemotherapy or the possibility of giving chemotherapy straight to the chest or abdomen.
Radiotherapy or radiation therapy is the use of high-energy rays to destroy malignant cells and shrink tumors. It is important to know that this medical procedure attacks the cancer cells only in the treated area. There are two ways of giving this therapy. One, external radiation, in which the radiation comes from a machine, and other, internal radiation, where the cancer cells are found after putting materials that produce radiation into the affected area.
Doctor's way to relieve patient's pain is to use a needle or a thin tube to drain fluid that has built up in the abdominal or chest cavities through a procedure called thoracentesis. When it is from the chest, and paracentesis, when the removal is from the abdomen. The specialists may also give the drugs through a tube in the chest to prevent the accumulation of more liquid.
In a surgery, one of the most common treatments for mesothelioma, the doctor removes part of the lining of the abdomen or the chest and some tissue around it. In a pneumonectomy, the doctor may also remove one lung when the patient has pleural mesothelioma or cancer of the pleura. In other surgical procedure, the doctor may also remove part of the diaphragm, the muscle below the lungs that helps with breathing. Through these procedures, the medical specialist shall try to excise tumourous tissue arising from this cancer disease. As these operations will reduce the patient's respiratory capacity, the surgeon will evaluate the patient's ability to function after a lung tissue removal, before performing a pneumonectomy.
Another method to fight Mesothelioma is chemotherapy or the use of anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. These drugs are given to the patient by an intravenous procedure, an injection into a vein. Currently, experts are studying the effectiveness of intracavitary chemotherapy or the possibility of giving chemotherapy straight to the chest or abdomen.
Radiotherapy or radiation therapy is the use of high-energy rays to destroy malignant cells and shrink tumors. It is important to know that this medical procedure attacks the cancer cells only in the treated area. There are two ways of giving this therapy. One, external radiation, in which the radiation comes from a machine, and other, internal radiation, where the cancer cells are found after putting materials that produce radiation into the affected area.
Doctor's way to relieve patient's pain is to use a needle or a thin tube to drain fluid that has built up in the abdominal or chest cavities through a procedure called thoracentesis. When it is from the chest, and paracentesis, when the removal is from the abdomen. The specialists may also give the drugs through a tube in the chest to prevent the accumulation of more liquid.
Mesothelioma - Diagnosis of Mesothelioma Cancer
If you have researched a little, you should know that diagnosis of Mesothelioma cancer is very difficult in many cases, because its symptoms can be associated with other diseases too. Hence patient's medical history is quite important to know, since if there was an exposure to asbestos from the sick person, the risk factors for developing Mesothelioma are greater.
The doctor will order you a physical examination, including chest and abdomen x-rays, and lung function tests. A computerized tomography (CT) or a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan may be useful, along with a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
The CT scan allows a computer x-rays machine to create a series of detailed pictures of inner body areas. The MRI allows to obtain detailed images of areas inside the body through a powerful magnet linked to a computer.
The way to confirm a Mesothelioma diagnosis is a biopsy, in which an oncologist or a doctor specialized in diagnosing and treating cancer pathologies takes a sample of tissue from the patient to examine it under a microscope. The biopsy may be performed in various ways. In a thoracoscopy the name of the biopsy if the cancer is in the chest the doctor makes a small cut through the patient's chest and introduce a tube called thoracoscope to look inside and take tissue samples.
In a peritoneoscopy if the cancer is in the abdomen the doctor makes the same procedure but in the patient's abdominal cavity to obtain tissue for examination.
The stage of the disease is important to know if cancer is metastasized to other parts of the body, and to apply the best treatment for the patient.
The disease will be 'localized' if the cancer is found only on the surface of the membrane, but it will be 'advanced' if it has spread to other parts of the body, such as lungs, abdominal organs, chest wall, lymph nodes.
The doctor will order you a physical examination, including chest and abdomen x-rays, and lung function tests. A computerized tomography (CT) or a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan may be useful, along with a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
The CT scan allows a computer x-rays machine to create a series of detailed pictures of inner body areas. The MRI allows to obtain detailed images of areas inside the body through a powerful magnet linked to a computer.
The way to confirm a Mesothelioma diagnosis is a biopsy, in which an oncologist or a doctor specialized in diagnosing and treating cancer pathologies takes a sample of tissue from the patient to examine it under a microscope. The biopsy may be performed in various ways. In a thoracoscopy the name of the biopsy if the cancer is in the chest the doctor makes a small cut through the patient's chest and introduce a tube called thoracoscope to look inside and take tissue samples.
In a peritoneoscopy if the cancer is in the abdomen the doctor makes the same procedure but in the patient's abdominal cavity to obtain tissue for examination.
The stage of the disease is important to know if cancer is metastasized to other parts of the body, and to apply the best treatment for the patient.
The disease will be 'localized' if the cancer is found only on the surface of the membrane, but it will be 'advanced' if it has spread to other parts of the body, such as lungs, abdominal organs, chest wall, lymph nodes.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Mesothelioma - Your Questions Answered
Q. What is Mesothelioma?
A. Mesothelioma is a rare but potentially fatal cancer that affects a layer of the body called as mesothelium. Typically mesothelioma develops in the lining of the chest or abdominal cavity. There are three forms of mesothelioma:
1. Pleural mesothelioma. Mesothelioma that affects the coverings of the lungs.
2. Peritoneal mesothelioms. Mesothelioma that affects the covering of the abdominal organs.
3. Pericardial mesothelioma. Mesothelioma that affects the covering of the heart.
Pleural is the most common followed by peritoneal and lastly pericardial.
Q. What are the causes of mesothelioma?
A. Asbestos is the number one cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fine fiber material that is resistant to heat. These fibers when inhaled get into the air passages and then reach the pleural cells. The asbestos injures the pleural cells and this injury leads to either benign or malignant transformation. Asbestos is found in many types of industrial supplies and equipments. Asbestos exposure does not lead to mesothelioma immediately. Often it takes decades before the person manifests the symptoms of the disease. Smoking does not lead to mesothelioma though the risk is more for a smoker exposed to asbestos.
Q. What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
A. Often mistaken for pneumonia, mesothelioma is very difficult to diagnose based on symptoms alone. The most common symptoms include:
Persistent cough.
Shortness of breath.
Chest pains.
Swelling up of face and neck.
Coughing up blood.
Nausea and vomiting.
Weight loss.
Loss of appetite.
Not everyone exposed to asbestos will develop mesothelioma. However keep in mind the risk of asbestos exposure and mesothelioma and speaking to a doctor will help in screening and early detection of the disease.
Q. What treatment options are available for mesothelioma?
A. Mesothelioma is often a very difficult disease to diagnose and treat. The various treatment options include:
Surgery in early stages to reduce tumor burden.
Chemotherapy with agents like Cisplatin.
Radiotherapy.
Gene therapy.
Immunotherapy.
Photodynamic therapy.
A. Mesothelioma is a rare but potentially fatal cancer that affects a layer of the body called as mesothelium. Typically mesothelioma develops in the lining of the chest or abdominal cavity. There are three forms of mesothelioma:
1. Pleural mesothelioma. Mesothelioma that affects the coverings of the lungs.
2. Peritoneal mesothelioms. Mesothelioma that affects the covering of the abdominal organs.
3. Pericardial mesothelioma. Mesothelioma that affects the covering of the heart.
Pleural is the most common followed by peritoneal and lastly pericardial.
Q. What are the causes of mesothelioma?
A. Asbestos is the number one cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fine fiber material that is resistant to heat. These fibers when inhaled get into the air passages and then reach the pleural cells. The asbestos injures the pleural cells and this injury leads to either benign or malignant transformation. Asbestos is found in many types of industrial supplies and equipments. Asbestos exposure does not lead to mesothelioma immediately. Often it takes decades before the person manifests the symptoms of the disease. Smoking does not lead to mesothelioma though the risk is more for a smoker exposed to asbestos.
Q. What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
A. Often mistaken for pneumonia, mesothelioma is very difficult to diagnose based on symptoms alone. The most common symptoms include:
Persistent cough.
Shortness of breath.
Chest pains.
Swelling up of face and neck.
Coughing up blood.
Nausea and vomiting.
Weight loss.
Loss of appetite.
Not everyone exposed to asbestos will develop mesothelioma. However keep in mind the risk of asbestos exposure and mesothelioma and speaking to a doctor will help in screening and early detection of the disease.
Q. What treatment options are available for mesothelioma?
A. Mesothelioma is often a very difficult disease to diagnose and treat. The various treatment options include:
Surgery in early stages to reduce tumor burden.
Chemotherapy with agents like Cisplatin.
Radiotherapy.
Gene therapy.
Immunotherapy.
Photodynamic therapy.
Mesothelioma - A Type of Cancer
Mesothelioma is considered to be the most deadly type of cancer that is caused by inhaling the asbestos particles that float in the air. Mostly people who are directly or sometimes indirectly exposed to asbestos contact this disease. It affects the mesothelium which is the protective lining of most the internal organs in the body. Malignant cells develop on the mesothelium of the heart, lungs or the stomach. The mesothelium of the chest cavity and the lungs is known as pleura, the stomach lining is called peritoneum and pericardium is the lining of the heart. There is provision in the law for the compensation of Mesothelioma patients and special lawyers called asbestos lawyers help the patients in their legal pursuit.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
The symptoms of Mesothelioma occur at the last stage of the disease so curing it becomes very difficult. The symptoms can be seen after a long time of exposure to asbestos which may be a long gap of twenty to fifty years. The main symptoms are breathlessness due to accumulation of fluid in the chest, coughing, pain in the chest; blood may also appear with the cough or the spit. These symptoms can be seen if the pleura or the pericardium is affected. If the peritoneum is affected the patient will develop loss of appetite, pain in the stomach, loss of weight, problem in the bowel, anemia and fatigue. The patient may also suffer from frequent fever.
Treatment of Mesothelioma
An effective treatment of this disease depends on several factors like, in which stage the cancer has been detected, what is the age of the patient, how much the cancerous cells have circulated and the general health condition of the patient, that is whether he is suffering from some other disease or not. It has been observed that chemotherapy is the only treatment available for these patients. It uses medicines, chemicals or drugs in a systematic manner to eradicate the cancerous cells. The medicine is either injected directly in the body or administered in pill forms.
The other forms of treatment are immunotherapy, surgery and radiation by which the malignant cells are destroyed so that they do not spread to the other parts of the body. In severe cases many tumors may be detected on the affected area for this the doctors first remove the tumors by surgery and then the other forms of treatment follow. The patient has to decide whether he will undergo the painful treatment or survive for six to twelve months without treatment.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
The symptoms of Mesothelioma occur at the last stage of the disease so curing it becomes very difficult. The symptoms can be seen after a long time of exposure to asbestos which may be a long gap of twenty to fifty years. The main symptoms are breathlessness due to accumulation of fluid in the chest, coughing, pain in the chest; blood may also appear with the cough or the spit. These symptoms can be seen if the pleura or the pericardium is affected. If the peritoneum is affected the patient will develop loss of appetite, pain in the stomach, loss of weight, problem in the bowel, anemia and fatigue. The patient may also suffer from frequent fever.
Treatment of Mesothelioma
An effective treatment of this disease depends on several factors like, in which stage the cancer has been detected, what is the age of the patient, how much the cancerous cells have circulated and the general health condition of the patient, that is whether he is suffering from some other disease or not. It has been observed that chemotherapy is the only treatment available for these patients. It uses medicines, chemicals or drugs in a systematic manner to eradicate the cancerous cells. The medicine is either injected directly in the body or administered in pill forms.
The other forms of treatment are immunotherapy, surgery and radiation by which the malignant cells are destroyed so that they do not spread to the other parts of the body. In severe cases many tumors may be detected on the affected area for this the doctors first remove the tumors by surgery and then the other forms of treatment follow. The patient has to decide whether he will undergo the painful treatment or survive for six to twelve months without treatment.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Mesothelioma - A Blunder If Not Diagnosed
Mesothelioma is just one of the diseases that people can develop after prolonged asbestos exposure. It is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells which cover the outer surface of most of the body's internal body organs. This is caused by the exposure to asbestos which was around quite a lot in certain areas before it was banned. It could have been contracted in a number of ways from simply breathing it in to picking it up second hand from other people's clothing, hair or skin.
Mesothelioma can take various different forms and can develop in the tissues covering the lungs or abdomen. The most common type diagnosed is pleural mesothelioma which affects the tissues lining the lungs, called the pleura. Fortunately, it is unusual for this disease to spread to other parts of the body. When it does, it doesn't usually cause any problematic symptoms.
Most people who develop mesothelioma will have worked in jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles. The most commonly affected trades were dockers, roofers, plumbers, electricians, shipyard workers and power station workers. However, it is possible for someone to contract the illness even if they have never had direct asbestos exposure. For example, family members may have breathed in the dust particles from the clothing of someone who worked with it.
There are various different symptoms that people can look out for if they know there is a chance they could have mesothelioma. Shortness of breath, a prolonged cough, chest pain, weight loss, abdominal swelling and fever are just some of the signs to look out for. These symptoms may not start showing until 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure, however which is why many people don't realize what it is at the time.
Diagnosing mesothelioma can be very difficult because the symptoms are similar to many other conditions. For this reason it is extremely important that doctors are made aware of any history to asbestos exposure so they know what to look out for. In order to make a proper diagnosis, a physical examination, a chest x - ray and lung function tests will be performed in order to see if there is any pleural thickening, which is common among those who worked around asbestos. If anything suspicious is found a biopsy will be performed so that a diagnosis can be confirmed and treatment can begin.
Many people have enlisted the help of an asbestos lawyer in order to claim compensation against asbestos manufacturers. The first lawsuit was in 1929 and since then people have successfully won billions of dollars from these companies who neglected to implement safety measures to protect workers against exposure. Mesothelioma Attorneys often take some good percentage of the compensation so watch out before you go ahead and hire any one.
Mesothelioma can take various different forms and can develop in the tissues covering the lungs or abdomen. The most common type diagnosed is pleural mesothelioma which affects the tissues lining the lungs, called the pleura. Fortunately, it is unusual for this disease to spread to other parts of the body. When it does, it doesn't usually cause any problematic symptoms.
Most people who develop mesothelioma will have worked in jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles. The most commonly affected trades were dockers, roofers, plumbers, electricians, shipyard workers and power station workers. However, it is possible for someone to contract the illness even if they have never had direct asbestos exposure. For example, family members may have breathed in the dust particles from the clothing of someone who worked with it.
There are various different symptoms that people can look out for if they know there is a chance they could have mesothelioma. Shortness of breath, a prolonged cough, chest pain, weight loss, abdominal swelling and fever are just some of the signs to look out for. These symptoms may not start showing until 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure, however which is why many people don't realize what it is at the time.
Diagnosing mesothelioma can be very difficult because the symptoms are similar to many other conditions. For this reason it is extremely important that doctors are made aware of any history to asbestos exposure so they know what to look out for. In order to make a proper diagnosis, a physical examination, a chest x - ray and lung function tests will be performed in order to see if there is any pleural thickening, which is common among those who worked around asbestos. If anything suspicious is found a biopsy will be performed so that a diagnosis can be confirmed and treatment can begin.
Many people have enlisted the help of an asbestos lawyer in order to claim compensation against asbestos manufacturers. The first lawsuit was in 1929 and since then people have successfully won billions of dollars from these companies who neglected to implement safety measures to protect workers against exposure. Mesothelioma Attorneys often take some good percentage of the compensation so watch out before you go ahead and hire any one.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Mesothelioma - Do You Need To Worry?
Mesothelioma is a unique cancer that's directly associated with asbestos. This cancer grows in the mesothelium which is the lining that encapsulates many of the body's organs but is more common in the lungs and chest cavity.
This particular disease is difficult to discover as you may not suffer symptoms for several decades after having exposure to asbestos. A few of the more common symptoms are breathlessness, fluid surrounding the lungs, tiredness, and an abrasive cough that might have blood in it.
It also has symptoms like several other conditions such as Tuberculosis and different kinds of lung cancer. The only way to make certain is to get X-rays, CAT scans, or magnetic resonance imaging carried out. Delaying this procedure is not wise if you have any reason to believe you may be at risk.
Fortunately, the likelihood of picking up mesothelioma today is uncommon. There is an undertaking to make certain that outlawing the use of asbestos in common construction materials is stopped and exhaustive checking of older constructions is underway, rebuilding them if needed. Winding asbestos around water pipes was common in aged buildings and using it in ceilings was practised as well.
Although it is naturally occurring, it is difficult to just come across asbestos today. Although using it in concrete, brake pads, and in many diverse fireproof materials was common practice for a longtime.
Mineworkers and their kinfolk because of working in the mines, laundering miner's clothing, and experiencing much asbestos in their surroundings, contracted mesothelioma as an outcome. Recognising the long-term dangers of the substance at the time was not known and unfortunately there were little or no safeguards employed when using it.
This particular disease is difficult to discover as you may not suffer symptoms for several decades after having exposure to asbestos. A few of the more common symptoms are breathlessness, fluid surrounding the lungs, tiredness, and an abrasive cough that might have blood in it.
It also has symptoms like several other conditions such as Tuberculosis and different kinds of lung cancer. The only way to make certain is to get X-rays, CAT scans, or magnetic resonance imaging carried out. Delaying this procedure is not wise if you have any reason to believe you may be at risk.
Fortunately, the likelihood of picking up mesothelioma today is uncommon. There is an undertaking to make certain that outlawing the use of asbestos in common construction materials is stopped and exhaustive checking of older constructions is underway, rebuilding them if needed. Winding asbestos around water pipes was common in aged buildings and using it in ceilings was practised as well.
Although it is naturally occurring, it is difficult to just come across asbestos today. Although using it in concrete, brake pads, and in many diverse fireproof materials was common practice for a longtime.
Mineworkers and their kinfolk because of working in the mines, laundering miner's clothing, and experiencing much asbestos in their surroundings, contracted mesothelioma as an outcome. Recognising the long-term dangers of the substance at the time was not known and unfortunately there were little or no safeguards employed when using it.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Looking at Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells of the body. These are the cells that make up the outer lining for the body's major organs, such as the heart, lungs and stomach. These linings are referred to as the mesothelium and this is how the cancer got its name.
The Peritoneum
The peritoneum is the tissue lining the abdomen. Its job is to protect the abdomens contents. It produces a fluid that acts as a lubricant so organs within the abdomen may move freely. Peritoneal mesothelioma is cancer of the tissue that lines the abdominal cavity. This form of mesothelioma is rarer than pleural mesothelioma.
Pleural Mesothelioma
the pleura is the tissue that covers and lines the lungs. These are referred to by the medical community as pleural membranes. The pleura are fibrous membranes and the space between them is the pleural space. The pleural protect the lungs by producing a lubricant that fills the pleural space. This lubric
The Peritoneum
The peritoneum is the tissue lining the abdomen. Its job is to protect the abdomens contents. It produces a fluid that acts as a lubricant so organs within the abdomen may move freely. Peritoneal mesothelioma is cancer of the tissue that lines the abdominal cavity. This form of mesothelioma is rarer than pleural mesothelioma.
Pleural Mesothelioma
the pleura is the tissue that covers and lines the lungs. These are referred to by the medical community as pleural membranes. The pleura are fibrous membranes and the space between them is the pleural space. The pleural protect the lungs by producing a lubricant that fills the pleural space. This lubric
Mesothelioma and Asbestos - A Glossary of Related Terms and Definitions
Understanding the terminology commonly associated with mesothelioma and asbestos while holding a conversation with your doctor or other specialist will help you to relate to what they're saying and make more informed decisions about how to proceed.
Below are some of the most common terms used when describing, diagnosing or treating mesothelioma.
1. Asbestos
A natural mineral that is commonly used in construction materials or similar products due to its high level of heat resistance and durability. It is a fibrous silicate mineral, and exposure to asbestos over an extended period of time can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer or asbestosis.
2. Asbestosis
A serious health condition in which there is scar tissue present in the lungs as a result of inhaling asbestos dust and fibers.
3. Mesothelioma
A rare, cancerous condition most often caused by exposure to asbestos. This is a malignant cancer tumor found in the mesothelium of the abdomen or lungs.
4. Mesothelium
Tissue which forms a lining around several organs such as the abdomen, and also the chest area. The fluid produced by this tissue helps to protect and mobilize organs.
5. Invasive cancer
A cancer that spreads from one point to another in the body.
6. Epidemiology
Statistics of diseases and their causes among a population.
7. Carcinoma
Tissue that is diagnosed malignant. This is normally a tumor.
8. Tremolite
A type of asbestos which has flexible fibers.
9. Serpentine Asbestos
A type of asbestos which has curly fibers that is of a tiered structure. The most commonly used form of asbestos in the U.S., called "Chrysotile", and is a type of serpentine asbestos.
10. Pneumoconiosis
Also known as fibrosis of the lungs, where the lungs have been scarred due to frequent inhalation of asbestos.
If you are up to date with the terms and the words when dealing with mesothelioma, it allows you to be better prepared when and if you have to deal with it. If you need to speak to a mesothelioma attorney or lawyer, you will be able to understand some of the terms they use when talking about your case.
Again if you have to see your doctor, you will be able to understand what they are talking about to a certain extent. Mesothelioma can be very complex and confusing for anyone. Throw in the emotions of being involved or at having mesothelioma and everything can become very confusing. This guide will hopefully help to clear up any confusion you may have.
Below are some of the most common terms used when describing, diagnosing or treating mesothelioma.
1. Asbestos
A natural mineral that is commonly used in construction materials or similar products due to its high level of heat resistance and durability. It is a fibrous silicate mineral, and exposure to asbestos over an extended period of time can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer or asbestosis.
2. Asbestosis
A serious health condition in which there is scar tissue present in the lungs as a result of inhaling asbestos dust and fibers.
3. Mesothelioma
A rare, cancerous condition most often caused by exposure to asbestos. This is a malignant cancer tumor found in the mesothelium of the abdomen or lungs.
4. Mesothelium
Tissue which forms a lining around several organs such as the abdomen, and also the chest area. The fluid produced by this tissue helps to protect and mobilize organs.
5. Invasive cancer
A cancer that spreads from one point to another in the body.
6. Epidemiology
Statistics of diseases and their causes among a population.
7. Carcinoma
Tissue that is diagnosed malignant. This is normally a tumor.
8. Tremolite
A type of asbestos which has flexible fibers.
9. Serpentine Asbestos
A type of asbestos which has curly fibers that is of a tiered structure. The most commonly used form of asbestos in the U.S., called "Chrysotile", and is a type of serpentine asbestos.
10. Pneumoconiosis
Also known as fibrosis of the lungs, where the lungs have been scarred due to frequent inhalation of asbestos.
If you are up to date with the terms and the words when dealing with mesothelioma, it allows you to be better prepared when and if you have to deal with it. If you need to speak to a mesothelioma attorney or lawyer, you will be able to understand some of the terms they use when talking about your case.
Again if you have to see your doctor, you will be able to understand what they are talking about to a certain extent. Mesothelioma can be very complex and confusing for anyone. Throw in the emotions of being involved or at having mesothelioma and everything can become very confusing. This guide will hopefully help to clear up any confusion you may have.
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