Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. Due to its long latency period, symptoms may take decades to appear, complicating timely diagnosis and treatment.
Affected individuals may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, so understanding the symptoms, risk factors for mesothelioma, and possible legal recourse is essential.
If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos in the workplace or at home and have developed mesothelioma or other adverse side effects as a result, seeking legal counsel is an important step to take.
Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers is experienced in handling mesothelioma cases and can provide you with the support and guidance needed.
Definition of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that primarily affects the lining of internal organs such as the lungs, heart, abdomen, and, in less common cases, the testicles.
The most prevalent form, called pleural mesothelioma, impacts the lung lining and is usually caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. This exposure is the primary risk factor, with a latency period that can exceed more than a decade, complicating diagnosis and treatment.
Common Causes
Mesothelioma is primarily caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were once widely used in construction and various industries for their heat-resistant properties. Below are the two most common causes of mesothelioma:
- Asbestos Exposure: The primary risk factor for developing mesothelioma is direct exposure to asbestos fibers. Individuals working in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, and automotive may be at higher risk due to environmental contact with asbestos materials.
- Secondary Exposure: Family members of those exposed to asbestos may also develop mesothelioma through indirect or secondary exposure. Asbestos fibers can cling to clothing, skin, or hair, resulting in exposure to household members.
Mesothelioma patients should consult with mesothelioma specialists for appropriate treatment options and clinical trials. Reaching out to a personal injury lawyer can also help patients get the compensation they’re owed. Contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers today.
Types of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma can be categorized into different types based on the location of the mesothelioma tumors. These types, named after the specific linings they originate from, vary in symptoms, treatment options, and prognosis. Understanding each type to accurately diagnose mesothelioma and come up with effective treatment plans for mesothelioma patients.
Pleural Mesothelioma
Pleural mesothelioma, the most common form of mesothelioma, affects the thin tissue lining the lungs and chest cavity, known as the pleura. As the malignant pleural mesothelioma develops, it can cause symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath.
This condition is strongly associated with asbestos exposure, where asbestos fibers are inhaled and become embedded in the lung lining.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma occurs in the abdominal lining, specifically affecting the peritoneum that surrounds the abdominal organs. This form accounts for a smaller percentage of mesothelioma cases and is often a result of asbestos fibers settling in the peritoneal cavity. Symptoms can include abdominal swelling and pain.
Pericardial Mesothelioma
Pericardial mesothelioma is an extremely rare variant of mesothelioma cancer that forms in the pericardium, the protective lining around the heart. With fewer cases reported, understanding this variant of the disease remains limited, but it is linked to asbestos exposure.
Symptoms typically include heart palpitations and pain in the chest, making them difficult to distinguish from other heart-related conditions.
Testicular Mesothelioma
Testicular mesothelioma, sometimes called mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis, is the rarest type and affects the lining around the testicles. This variant’s cause is also not well understood but is suspected to involve similar asbestos exposure risks.
Due to its rarity, this type of mesothelioma diagnosis is frequently incidental, often discovered during surgery for another condition.
Ultimately, all types of mesothelioma are incredibly serious and do not have a very good prognosis. It’s important to get the compensation you deserve so you can focus on your treatment.
Asbestos and Mesothelioma
Asbestos has been extensively used in various industries. However, its fibers pose significant health risks when inhaled or ingested. Understanding the connection between asbestos and mesothelioma is essential in recognizing potential risks and taking preventive measures.
Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure is predominantly linked to several occupational and environmental sources. Commonly found in construction materials like roofing shingles, floor tiles, and insulation, asbestos was widely used for its durability and fire-resistant properties.
Additionally, it’s common to find asbestos fibers present in car parts like brake pads and clutches or even firefighting foams. If these materials are handled improperly and the fibers get into the air, they can be dangerous and deadly when breathed in. People with jobs in construction, shipbuilding, or auto repair have a higher chance of coming across these hazards.
Latency Period
The development of mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos is characterized by an extended latency period, often spanning several decades. This long latency period means that symptoms of mesothelioma may not surface until 20 to 50 years after initial exposure.
The delay complicates early diagnosis and mesothelioma treatment, often allowing the disease to progress to advanced stages before confirmation.
Risk Factors
While asbestos exposure remains the main risk factor for mesothelioma, many factors can increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Occupational exposure without wearing protective equipment significantly elevates risk, especially in industries like mining, construction, and manufacturing.
Smoking can exacerbate respiratory complications but does not directly cause mesothelioma. Other identified factors also play a role, such as previous cancer diagnoses, detection of cancer cells in organs nearby, and specific inherited genetic traits.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary a bit depending on the tumor’s location within the body. Recognizing these symptoms early can help with diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms include:
- Pleural Mesothelioma: Difficulty breathing, persistent cough, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, and pleural effusion (fluid buildup around the lungs).
- Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Abdominal swelling or pain, nausea, vomiting, and bowel obstruction.
- Pericardial Mesothelioma: Heart palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, and pericardial effusion (fluid buildup around the heart).
- Testicular Mesothelioma: Swelling or lumps in the testicular area.
Immediate attention to these symptoms is critical for timely medical intervention and management.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Mesothelioma
Diagnosing mesothelioma involves a comprehensive evaluation using a combination of patient medical history, imaging scans, and tissue samples to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. Once identified, treatment options vary depending on the type of mesothelioma and its progression, with the goal of improving quality of life and extending life expectancy.
Diagnosis
- Imaging Tests: These include X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to detect abnormalities in the lungs, abdomen, or other internal organs.
- Tissue Sample (Biopsy): A definitive diagnosis often requires a biopsy, where a thin tissue sample is examined for malignant cells.
- Blood Tests: While not conclusive, blood tests can indicate specific biomarkers associated with mesothelioma.
- Medical History and Exposure: A history of exposure to asbestos and other related occupational factors, particularly among military veterans and those working in construction, is crucial in assessing increased risk.
- Other Tests: Additional exams may be used to determine the cancer stage and any involvement of lymph nodes or distant organs.
Treatment Options
- Surgery: Thoracic surgery may be considered in certain cases of pleural mesothelioma.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy is often used to target and reduce cancerous tissues.
- Chemotherapy: This may be done to manage malignant mesothelioma and prevent spread, often involving drugs that target epithelial cells.
- Palliative Care: Focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the patient’s overall health and life expectancy.
- Support Groups: Participation in a support group can provide emotional support and guidance for both patients and families.
- Mesothelioma Specialist and Cancer Centers: Seeking care from experts and reputable cancer centers can significantly impact the mesothelioma prognosis and provide access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials.
Organizations such as the National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society are at the forefront, offering essential resources and conducting ground-breaking research. Their work is essential in enhancing treatment options and improving support networks for individuals dealing with mesothelioma.
Legal Implications of Mesothelioma
Understanding the legal implications of mesothelioma is essential for victims and their families, especially given the potential for compensation due to occupational exposure to asbestos. These cases often involve complex legal battles as accountability for illnesses like malignant mesothelioma is pursued through various legal channels.
Product Liability
Product liability refers to a manufacturer or seller being held responsible for placing a defective product into the hands of a consumer. In cases of asbestos-containing products, this concept plays a crucial role.
Companies that manufactured, sold, or used asbestos-containing materials without adequately warning about the dangers—or sometimes even hiding the dangers—may be held liable. This liability ensures that those affected by diseases such as malignant pleural mesothelioma or even rarer types of mesothelioma, like tunica vaginalis, have a path to seek justice.
Mesothelioma Lawsuits
Victims of mesothelioma, sometimes including those with lung cancer from asbestos exposure, can pursue multiple types of lawsuits. These include personal injury lawsuits filed by the patient against the companies responsible for their exposure and wrongful death lawsuits filed by the family members following the victim’s passing.
Due to the severe impact on life expectancy, these lawsuits are often complex and require specialization from a healthcare provider and mesothelioma specialist who can provide evidence and expert testimony.
Compensation
Compensation in malignant mesothelioma cases is provided to cover a wide range of losses and damages suffered by the victim and their family. Below are some of the primary types of compensation available:
Medical Expenses
Compensation may cover the substantial medical expenses incurred for treating malignant mesothelioma, such as surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Lost Wages
Victims of mesothelioma often face disruptions in their careers, leading to significant lost wages. Lawsuits may include claims for lost earnings, considering the effect of the disease on initial life expectancy and the average life expectancy.
Pain and Suffering
Compensatory claims can also account for the pain and suffering endured due to the disease’s physical and emotional toll.
With the assistance of mesothelioma specialists and legal experts, victims can pursue justice while accessing the necessary treatment and support systems to confront this challenging diagnosis.
The Bottom Line
Consulting with a lawyer who specializes in mesothelioma cases is crucial for exploring legal avenues and maximizing compensation opportunities. An experienced attorney provides guidance on the legal processes, ensuring that victims can fully understand their rights. Legal expertise is instrumental in gathering necessary evidence, negotiating settlements, and, if necessary, taking a claim to court.
At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we understand how difficult it can be to face a mesothelioma diagnosis, and we are committed to providing you with the necessary support to pursue justice. Call (888) 424-5757 or complete our online contact form today.
