by Donna Hicks

Created on: March 12, 2010

Mesothelioma is a not lung cancer, but rare, fatal cancer of the mesothelium, or protective membrane of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), heart (pericardial mesothelioma), or abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma). The latency for mesothelioma is up to fifty years, and most victims die within four to fifteen months after diagnosis. Some are not diagnosed until autopsy. Such was the case with my own brother.

Mesothelioma can be contracted with even a single exposure to asbestos. For years, big business and our government ignored the dangers. Asbestos was used in industrial and commercial use, and as a result, over 20 million American Workers suffered exposure to asbestos. Many people have contracted mesothelioma through second hand exposure when their loved one brought asbestos fibers home on their work clothing, hair and skin. Asbestos still kills innocent victims every day.

Mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose because of the very lengthy latency period, for one reason. Victims complain of shortness of breath, may have accumulation of fluid (pleural effusion) in the lungs or affected area of the body, and subsequent pain. These are symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. Peritoneal mesothelioma may produce symptoms such as abdominal pain and swelling, nausea, abdominal pain, bowel obstruction, as well as other symptoms. Because these symptoms are similar to other diseases, the doctor may not initially diagnose mesothelioma. Some physicians are, unfortunately, still uninformed as to when to suspect mesothelioma and are uninformed of the symptoms and treatment of the disease.

The patient’s medical history should be examined. Have there been complaints in the past of the same symptoms? X-rays, MRIs, CT scans may be in order. A biopsy will confirm the diagnosis. If the mesothelioma is diagnosed through less invasive procedures or through means of thorocoscopy or peritoneoscopy, or other means, the physician or oncologist must perform other diagnostic procedures to determine if the mesothelioma has spread to other vital organs.

If one believes he or she has mesothelioma, based on symptoms, or has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is imperative that a physician who specializes in or at least treats mesothelioma patients on a regular basis is consulted. When the specialist is consulted, then further diagnosis can be made to determine the staging of the meso, and to then develop a treatment plan.

Unfortunately, asbestos is still not banned in the United States. People are dying of this disease for which there is so much needless, horrific suffering and no cure. Hall of Famer, former NFL Star Merlin Olsen died of mesothelioma Thursday, March 11th. Congressman Bruce Vento died of mesothelioma and actor Steve McQueen died of mesothelioma. My brother wasn't fortunate enough to find a doctor educated in mesothelioma and was diagnosed at autopsy. So if you suspect that you or a loved one may have meso, it is imperative to make an appointment with a knowledgeable physician as soon as possible so that proper diagnostic measures can begin.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2700543/tra gedy_of_mesothelioma_michaels_story.html?cat=70

cancer.gov

lungusa.org

Mesothelioma Applied Resource Foundation

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