The In Depth Study of Mesothelioma Part 3 - Pericardial Mesothelioma

This is the last installment of my 3 part mesothelioma study. This part discusses one of the least common forms of mesothelioma in the 3 main branches of asbestos cancer: pericardial mesothelioma. Although it is one of the more rare forms of this deadly cancer, it does not make it any less of a threat, as the same causes that develop the pleura, and peritoneal forms of mesothelioma also cause pericardial mesothelioma.

Pericardial, as some may be able to see by the name, has to do with the heart. Mesothelioma attacks the sac around the heart called the pericardium. This is a devastatingly threatening form of the cancer, as the heart is central to oxygenated blood throughout the body. If the heart fails, the body is sure to follow.

Some symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma are shortness of breath, chest pain, and nausea, much like a heart attack. Since the sac around the heart is becoming cancerous, blood pressure changes are often seen, and sluggishness, exhaustion, and fatigue are often results of lack of blood flow throughout the body. By the time these symptoms appear, the diagnosed patient will potentially see an increase in these painful symptoms, and there is little to nothing that can be done to ease discomfort.

Treatment, as with the other two mesothelioma cancers, is the same: radiation, surgery, chemotherapy, and fluid drainage. Although advances in these techniques have become more and more promising, a cure is still no where in sight, and only a finite amount of comfort can be given to on suffering from pericardial mesothelioma. Some have said that pericardial mesothelioma can be one of the most painful forms of asbestos cancer, and that treatments have little to no affect on pain.

As with the other two forms of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma is a cancer that could have been avoided, and individuals that have this disease should seek out attorneys that specialize in mesothelioma cases. The legal action against asbestos manufacturers on behalf of those who suffer must be taken with careful consideration and swift action. Many attorneys specializing in mesothelioma cases can win millions of dollars for those with this deadly disease. And those individuals must seek out the right course of action.

In conclusion to this 3 part series, I would like to say that my thoughts and prayers go out to those suffering from any form of this deadly cancer. And I hope that you find comfort in justice, and in the loved ones around you.

Mesothelioma Can Lie Dormant For Many Years

Mesothelioma is a relatively rare cancer that affects the lining around the heart, lungs and abdominal cavities which is called the mesothelium.

Mesothelioma is primarily caused by chronic exposure to asbestos or asbestos related products.

When asbestos fibers enter the body, by either breathing in the tiny asbestos fibers or by swallowing them, they can cause healthy cells to mutate into cancer. There is currently no known cure for malignant mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma causes the cells of the mesothelium to mutate and multiply infinitely. It is this mutation which causes tumors that prevent proper lung and heart functions. Studies have shown that mesothelioma can also invade part of the immune system, including the spleen, bone marrow and lymph nodes.

The cancerous cells of mesothelioma can lie dormant for many years before a victim begins to show signs of illness. It is not uncommon for the beginning stages of mesothelioma to appear as many as 30 years after initial exposure.

It is this one key reason that prevention of asbestos exposure is of absolute importance.

Because mesothelioma is known to lay dormant for years, often by the time symptoms appear it is too late to for treatment to make a difference in survival. Currently survival rate ranges from 1 to 5 years depending on the stage of mesothelioma, when it is diagnosed, as well as the overall health condition and age of the victim.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for malignant mesothelioma. Treatment ranges from chemotherapy, radiation treatment and preventive surgery, however, none of these treatments will cure this dangerous cancer. Treatment is designed to improve quality of life and relieve symptoms.

Years ago, it was not uncommon for asbestos companies to know the risk involved with the manufacturing of their products and the resulting asbestos exposure. Many companies did little or nothing to help provide their employees with protection. Some companies were even accused of ignoring the dangers of asbestos exposure to make a profit.

If you are fearful that you have been exposed to asbestos and fear that the exposure has caused you to contract mesothelioma, then you have the right to seek restitution for your loss. Seek an experienced mesothelioma attorney for advice.

Mesothelioma is an aggressive and deadly cancer. Don’t allow yourself to remain in denial.

Seek medical treatment immediately. Many treatments can help to relieve some symptoms of mesothelioma.