MESOTHELIOMA

 
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that attacks the linings of the lung, chest wall, heart and stomach.  It is so rare in fact, that only about 2500 new cases are diagnosed each year.  It is widely accepted that exposure to asbestos is the primary cause of this disease.  Mesothelioma is a very aggressive form of cancer that grows rapidly when untreated.

The Different Types of Mesothelioma

Although it is technically a single membrane, parts of the mesothelium have different names relative to the location of  the organs it covers. The lining of the abdominal cavity is called the peritoneum; the lining covering the lungs and wall of the chest cavity is called the pleura; and the lining covering the heart is called the pericardium.

Mesothelioma cancers associated with the different linings of these areas are commonly called:

• Pleural Mesothelioma

By far, pleural mesothelioma is the most common of the three types of mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs and thoracic cavity and is distinguished by the primary and painful symptom of fluid buildup around the lung. Conditions like pleural calcification or the development of pleural plaques often serve as per-cursor to pleural mesothelioma.

• Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma is an even rarer form of mesothelioma that occurs in the abdominal cavity and even sometimes in the testicles.  This type of mesothelioma occurs particularly in the thin cell walls which surround the abdominal cavity, known as the peritoneum.  This thin membrane acts a lubricant within the abdominal cavity so that surrounding organs and internal body structures may contract and expand as part of their normal functioning.  This rare form of mesothelioma presents itself in less than 500 individuals within the United States each year.                

• Pericardial Mesothelioma   

Pericardial mesothelioma is by far the rarest form of mesothelioma. Pericardial mesothelioma  develops in the lining that surrounds the heart and is associated with severe chest pain.  Since pericardial mesothelioma is the rarest of these malignancies, it only accounts for an estimated 10 percent of all mesothelioma incidences reported annually in the United States.


Symptoms Associated with Mesothelioma

Since pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common form of this disease, the primary symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath due to the tumor growing on the outside of the lung and fluid buildup in the chest cavity surrounding the lung
• Pleural Effusion, or fluid buildup in the chest cavity
• Pain in the side or upper back from the increased pressure on the ribs and chest wall from a large amount of the fluid in the chest cavity
  

Medical Options and Treatment

Early diagnosis offers the best chance for treating and managing this rare aggressive form of cancer.  Treatments of this disease varies depending on the type, its aggressiveness and its location, as well as the age and overall health of the patient.  Generally, combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are considered in most cases..

Your Legal Rights and Options

Your health, treatment and quality of life are the primary concern when facing this diagnosis, however, I stand ready to help you navigate the legal process to protect your rights and prosecute your claims allowing you and your family to focus on your treatment and health care options.  I will personally work with you and your family to plot a course that will maximize your ability to receive the compensation you deserve, while ensuring that your treatment continues without delay or interruption.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, do not delay in contacting me to discuss your rights, options and begin discussing the course of action that we will take to ensure you are fairly compensated for your injuries.

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