Mesothelioma

What is Mesothelioma? What is the difference between pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma?

2009-06-24T10:37:00.000-07:00

What is Mesothelioma? What is the difference between pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma?
Malignant mesothelioma is a disease in which a cancerous tumor grows on the mesothelium - the sac lining the internal body cavities. The specific type of mesothelioma is named for the tissue where the cancer started. Pleural mesothelioma starts in the chest, in the pleura that surrounds the lungs (outer lining of the lungs and internal chest wall). It makes up about 70% of mesothelioma cases. Peritoneal mesothelioma starts in the lining of the abdominal cavity.

Although sometimes referred to as "asbestos lung cancer", mesothelioma is not the same as lung cancer. Lung cancers occur inside the lung itself; mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the lung. Mesothelioma is rare, striking fewer than 3000 Americans per year.

How do you get malignant mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos, once regarded as a miracle mineral, was popular due its lightweight but tough characteristics as well as for its heat-resistant properties. This naturally occurring mineral was used in many commercial and consumer products, from construction materials such as cement, roofing shingles and insulation, to consumer and industrial applications such as hair dryers, automobile brake pads and pipe insulation.
lung anatomy lung with mesothelioma

Most people with malignant mesothelioma worked on jobs where they breathed asbestos. Others were exposed to asbestos in a household environment, often without knowing it.

How much exposure does it take to get the disease? What is the latency period?
Very little exposure can result in mesothelioma. Sometimes people who worked with asbestos for as little as one or two months get mesothelioma. The "latency period" refers to the time between asbestos exposure and diagnosis of the disease. For mesothelioma, the latency period can be decades long, and people exposed in the 1940s, 50s, 60s, and 70s are now being diagnosed.

What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
Our mesothelioma symptoms page goes into detail about the signs of this cancer. Please note that it is important to seek professional medical advice when trying to diagnose for mesothelioma. The major symptoms include:

* Shortness of breath caused by expanding pleural effusion
* Persistent dry cough

Other symptoms may include:

* Fatigue
* Night sweats
* Fever
* Pain under the rib cage
* Swelling or lumps in the abdomen
* Unexpected weight loss

How do doctors treat malignant mesothelioma?
Each patient has an individualized treatment plan which takes into account the type and stage of the cancer as well as the patient's overall health. Traditional mesothelioma treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or a combination of these.

How Was This Diagnosis Determined, and How Accurate Were the Tests?

2009-06-24T10:35:00.000-07:00

How Was This Diagnosis Determined, and How Accurate Were the Tests?

Although you probably took many different tests leading up to your diagnosis, a tissue biopsy is normally the final determining factor. Following are some tests your doctor may recommend, and what may or may not be concluded from these tests.

* X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs - See the imaging section for more on these techniques. On conventional x-ray film, mesothelioma appears as a markedly thickened, nodular, irregular pleural-based mass which covers the pleural surface. The tumor often encompasses the involved lung, but is only rarely seen bilaterally. Chest wall, diaphragmatic, and mediastinal invasion may be seen in advanced cases. Moderate to large pleural effusion is often noted on the affected side. On CT scan, pleural thickening greater than 1 cm can be identified in over 90% of cases; thickening which extends into the interlobular fissure is seen in 85% of cases. Absence of pleural thickening does not preclude mesothelioma, and at times, the only CT finding is that of pleural effusion.
* Cytology - Testing of the pleural fluid for malignant cells is considered to have limited value in diagnosing mesothelioma. Negative or inconclusive readings account for nearly 85% of all fluid tested. Even with a positive fluid report, many doctors prefer to perform a confirming tissue biopsy as long as it does not compromise the patient's health.
* Needle Biopsy - In this test, done under local anesthetic, a large hollow needle is inserted through the skin and into the chest cavity. The needle is then rotated, and as it is taken out, tissue samples are collected. Because of the small sample size of the tissue, this type of biopsy is considered to be only 25-60% accurate in diagnosing mesothelioma. Because tumor seeding may occur along the needle tract in approximately 20% of patients, local radiation therapy may be used in conjunction with this test.
* Open biopsy - This type of biopsy is considered to be the most accurate for mesothelioma diagnosis, and is the procedure of choice because it affords the pathologist a larger tissue sample.. It is done in a hospital under general anesthetic. As with a needle biopsy, local radiation may be used because of the possibility of tumor seeding.

Can I Be Treated by the Doctor Who Diagnosed My Mesothelioma?

If the doctor who diagnosed your mesothelioma is your primary physician, he will most likely refer you to a local oncologist for treatment. The oncologist may offer what he or she feels are the best treatment options, or, if their knowledge of this disease is limited, may suggest you seek out a doctor who specializes in mesothelioma. Most often these physicians are located at larger, teaching hospitals such as those listed in the Comprehensive Cancer Center Section. These facilities are ranked as state-of-the-art cancer centers, and are highly respected for their patient care and innovative cancer treatments. If your choice of treatment involves a radical surgical procedure or a clinical trial involving new, as yet unproven drugs, these facilities may be best for you. If your treatment involves an already-approved, standard form of chemotherapy, this can be carried out locally.
What Treatment Options Will I Be Offered?

Treatment options may vary according to the age and over-all health of the patient, and the extent of the disease. It is important to be informed of all available options for your particular case, so that you can make decision on the option you feel most comfortable with. Surgery, chemotherapy, and clinical trials, as well as new approaches such as photodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, and gene therapy may be offered. Speak openly with your doctor regarding suggested procedures. Questions may include:

* Why is this procedure best for me?
* What does the procedure entail?
* What are the advantages/disadvantages of this treatment (i.e, will this procedure limit my eligibility for other treatments)?
* What are the possible risks or adverse side effects?
* What are the response, survival, and mortality rates associated with this procedure?

MESOTHELIOMA STAGES

2009-06-24T10:34:00.000-07:00

MESOTHELIOMA STAGES

Treatment options are often determined by the stage of mesothelioma a patient is in. There are three staging systems currently in use for pleural mesothelioma and each one measures somewhat different variables; peritoneal mesothelioma is not staged.

Staging is the term used to describe the extent of a patient's cancer, based on the primary tumor and its spread in the body. It can help the medical team plan treatment, estimate prognosis and identify clinical trials for which the patient may be eligible.

Staging is based on a knowledge of how the cancer develops, from the primary tumor, to the invasion of nearby organs and tissues, to distant spread or metastasis. Staging systems have evolved over time, and they continue to change as scientists learn more about cancer. Some staging systems cover many different types of cancer, while others focus on more specific cancers. The TNM (primary tumor, regional lymph nodes, distant metastasis) is the most common staging system for mesothelioma.

Some elements common to most staging systems are:

* Location of the primary tumor.
* Size and number of the tumors.
* Lymph node involvement.
* Cell type and tumor grade.
* Metastasis.

Many cancer registries, such as the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER) use summary staging, a system used for all types of cancer. Summary staging groups cancer into five main categories:

* In situ - cancer that is present only in the layer of cells in which it began.
* Localized - cancer that is limited to the organ in which it began with no evidence of spread.
* Regional - cancer that has spread from the primary site to nearby lymph nodes or organs.
* Distant - cancer that has spread from the primary site to distant lymph nodes or organs.
* Unknown - cases where not enough information exists to indicate stage.

Several types of testing may be used to help doctors determine stage, and to formulate a treatment plan.

* Physical examinations. The doctor examines the body by looking, feeling and listening to anything out of the ordinary.
* Imaging techniques. Procedures such as x-rays, CT scans, MRIs and PET scans may show the location, size of the tumor and whether the cancer has spread.
* Laboratory tests. Studies of blood, urine, fluid and tissue can provide information about the cancer. Tumor markers, sometime elevated when cancer is present, may provide information.
* Pathology reports. Results of the examination of tissue samples can include information about the size of the tumor(s), extension into adjacent structures, type of cells and grade of the tumor. Results of the examination of cells in fluid, such as that from a mesothelioma-related pleural effusion, may also provide information.
* Surgical reports. Observations about the size and appearance of the tumor(s), lymph nodes and nearby organs.

Staging information should be provided to the patient by his doctor so that potential treatment plans can be discussed. Stage of the mesothelioma, as well as consideration of other factors such as age, health status and the patient's wishes may dictate different treatment options.

The oldest staging system and the one most often used is the Butchart System which is based mainly on the extent of primary tumor mass and divides mesotheliomas into four stages. The more recent TNM system considers variables of tumor in mass and spread, lymph node involvement, and metastasis. The Brigham System is the latest system and stages mesothelioma according to resectability (the ability to surgically remove) and lymph node involvement.

Butchart System – extent of primary tumor mass

* Stage I: Mesothelioma is present in the right or left pleura and may also involve the diaphragm on the same side.
* Stage II: Mesothelioma invades the chest wall or involves the esophagus, heart, or pleura on both sides. Lymph nodes in the chest may also be involved.
* Stage III: Mesothelioma has penetrated through the diaphragm into the lining of the abdominal cavity or peritoneum. Lymph nodes beyond those in the chest may also be involved.
* Stage IV: There is evidence of metastasis or spread through the bloodstream to other organs.

TNM System -- variables of T (tumor), N (lymph nodes), M (metastasis)

* Stage I: Mesothelioma involves right or left pleura and may also have spread to the lung, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side. Lymph nodes are not involved.
* Stage II: Mesothelioma has spread from the pleura on one side to nearby lymph nodes next to the lung on the same side. It may also have spread into the lung, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side.
* Stage III: Mesothelioma is now in the chest wall, muscle, ribs, heart, esophagus, or other organs in the chest on the same side with or without spread to lymph nodes on the same side as the primary tumor.
* Stage IV: Mesothelioma has spread into the lymph nodes in the chest on the side opposite the primary tumor, or extends to the pleura or lung on the opposite side, or directly extends into organs in the abdominal cavity or neck. Any distant metastases is included in this stage.

Brigham System: (variables of tumor resectability and nodal status)

* Stage I: Resectable mesothelioma and no lymph node involvement
* Stage II: Resectable mesothelioma but with lymph node involvement
* Stage III: Unresectable mesothelioma extending into chest wall, heart, or through diaphragm, peritoneum; with or without extrathoracic lymph node involvement
* Stage IV: Distant metastatic disease

MESOTHELIOMA SYMPTOMS

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MESOTHELIOMA SYMPTOMS

The early symptoms of mesothelioma are generally non-specific, and may lead to a delay in diagnosis. Sometimes resembling viral pneumonia, pleural mesothelioma patients may present with shortness of breath, chest pain and/or persistent cough; some patients show no symptoms at all. A chest x-ray may show a build-up of fluid or pleural effusion (discussed below). The right lung is affected 60% of the time, with involvement of both lungs being seen in approximately 5% of patients at the time of diagnosis. Less common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include fever, night sweats and weight loss. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include pain or swelling in the abdomen due to a build-up of fluid, nausea, weight loss, bowel obstruction, anemia or swelling of the feet.

PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT THESE SYMPTOMS MAY BE CAUSED BY MESOTHELIOMA OR BY OTHER LESS SERIOUS CONDITIONS. ONLY A DOCTOR CAN MAKE A DEFINITIVE DIAGNOSIS.

Pleural Effusion

One of the most common symptoms of mesothelioma is a pleural effusion, or an accumulation of fluid between the parietal pleura (the pleura covering the chest wall and diaphragm) and the visceral pleura (the pleura covering the lungs). Both of these membranes are covered with mesothelial cells which, under normal conditions, produce a small amount of fluid that acts as a lubricant between the chest wall and the lung. Any excess fluid is absorbed by blood and lymph vessels maintaining a balance. When too much fluid forms, the result is an effusion.

Types

Pleural effusion is broken down into two categories, transudates and exudates. A transudate is a clear fluid that forms not because the pleural surfaces are diseased, but because of an imbalance between the normal production and removal of the fluid. The most common cause of transudative fluid is congestive heart failure. An exudate, which is often cloudy and contains many cells and proteins, results from disease of the pleura itself, and is common to mesothelioma. To determine whether a fluid is a transudate or exudate, a diagnostic thoracentesis, in which a needle or catheter is used to obtain a fluid sample, may be conducted.

Symptoms

As the volume of fluid increases, shortness of breath, known as "dyspnea", and sometimes pain, ranging from mild to stabbing, may occur. Some patients may experience a dry cough. When the doctor listens to the patient’s chest with a stethoscope, normal breath sounds are muted, and tapping on the chest will reveal dull rather than hollow sounds.
Diagnosis

Diagnosis of pleural effusion is usually accomplished with a simple chest x-ray, although CT scans or ultrasound may also be used. A special x-ray technique, called a lateral decubitus film, may be used to detect smaller effusions or to enable the physician to estimate of the amount of fluid present. If the underlying cause of the effusion is readily apparent (such as in the case of severe congestive heart failure), sampling of the fluid may not be necessary, however, because pleural effusion may be symptomatic of a number of disease processes from benign to malignant, a fluid sample is generally taken. Diagnostic thoracentesis, in which cells are extracted from the pleural cavity, is commonly done when the possibility of mesothelioma exists, however, in up to 85% of cases, the fluid tests negative or inconclusive even though cancer is present. It is ultimately a needle biopsy of the pleura (lining of the lung) or an open surgical biopsy which confirms a mesothelioma diagnosis.

Treatment

Pleural effusion caused by heart failure or infection can usually be resolved by directing treatment at the cause, however, when testing has realized no diagnosis, and fluid continues to build or recur, doctors may recommend chest tube drainage and chemical pleurodesis. Chemical pleurodesis is a technique in which a sclerosing agent is used to abrade the pleural surfaces producing an adhesion between the parietal and visceral pleurae. This will prevent further effusion by eliminating the pleural space. Talc appears to be the most effective agent for pleurodesis, with a success rate of nearly 95%. It is highly effective when administered by either poudrage or slurry. Poudrage is the most widely used method of instilling talc into the pleural space. Before spraying the talc, the medical team removes all pleural fluid to completely collapse the lung. After the talc is administered, they inspect the pleural cavity to be sure the talc has been evenly distributed over the pleural surface. Some doctors prefer to use talc mixed with saline solution which forms a wet slurry that can roll around the pleural cavity.

Fatigue in Mesothelioma Patients

Fatigue refers to a lack of energy that affects a patient’s ability to function and may cause mental distress. Symptoms include feelings of weakness, exhaustion, weariness, tiredness, etc., and may be psychological and emotional as well as physical. A patient may suffer from either acute or chronic fatigue. Acute fatigue is relatively short-lived, with symptoms both beginning and ending quickly. Chronic fatigue lasts much longer, resisting efforts from the patient to rest and recuperate.

Fatigue occurs in a large portion of cancer patients and those who have had cancer in the past, and may be due to a number of cancer-related reasons. Some common factors include medications, weight loss, diet, pain, breathing difficulties, anemia, tumors, fluctuating hormones, and insomnia. Anxiety, depression, and emotional distress may contribute to fatigue, either as a direct result of the cancer and its treatment or due to the psychological reaction to the diagnosis of cancer and the treatments involved.

Fatigue can also be a result of cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Radiation therapy requires increased energy from the body to repair tissue, which can deplete the body’s energy supply. Fatigue can be a result of chemotherapy, in which the patient may suffer from nausea, vomiting and weight loss and subsequent fatigue as a result. Diet and poor appetite may also be factors, as cancer may cause the body to require more nutrients or affect the body’s ability to process food. The patient may not be getting the necessary nutrients if they are eating less, which is often a result of cancer or treatment related nausea, diarrhea, obstructed bowels, or loss of appetite

What is Mesothelioma

2007-06-13T02:01:00.001-07:00

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is almost always caused by previous exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma that affects the pleura can cause these signs and symptoms:chest wall painpleural effusion, or fluid surrounding the lungshortness of breathfatigue or anemiawheezing, hoarseness, or coughblood in the sputum (fluid) coughed up. For those diagnosed with mesothelioma, an asbestos-related cancer of the lining of the lung (pleura) or the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneum), finding a credible source of information about the disease itself and the medical options available, is of the highest priority. It is unusual for mesothelioma to spread to other parts of the body. It is much less common than pleural mesothelioma. There is a form of non cancerous (benign) mesothelioma that can develop in the lining of the lungs, or in the lining of the reproductive organs. Results of treatment for malignant mesothelioma have been disappointing.

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer in which malignant (cancerous) cells are found in the mesothelium, a protective sac that covers most of the body’s internal organs. Mesothelioma (cancer of the mesothelium) is a disease in which cells of the mesothelium become abnormal and divide without control or order. Mesothelioma cancer can develop in the tissues covering the. Mesothelioma is most often diagnosed in the pleura. Mesothelioma occurs more often in men than in women and risk increases with age,but this disease can appear in either men or women at any age. Mesothelioma affects the lining of various cavities in the body. Mesothelioma is most frequently caused by exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos

Asbestos is the name of a group of minerals that occur naturally as masses of strong, flexible fibers that can be separated into thin threads and woven. Asbestos is a natural mineral, mined from rock found in many countries. Asbestos is now known to be the most common cause of the disease. Asbestos was very widely used in insulation materials, such as amosite insulation board, and building materials, including asbestos cement.

Mesothelioma is the most serious of all asbestos-related diseases. Mesothelioma asbestos cancer can be very difficult to diagnose and can take anywhere from 25 to sometimes 50 years to develop. Mesothelioma is far commoner in men than in women, with a ratio of 4:1. Surgery is a common treatment for mesothelioma. Please contact us today to learn more information about mesothelioma diagnosis or to speak with a qualified and experienced mesothelioma attorney who will protect your legal rights and interests.

Mesothelioma Doctors and Specialists - Treatment and Care

2007-06-13T02:00:00.000-07:00

Mesothelioma is a malignant cancer that requires varied and special treatments for a patient to survive. For proper and effective treatment, you will be meeting a number of people - doctors and specialists who deal in the type of mesothelioma cancer you are suffering from, as well as other treatment specialists who will help you fight this deadly disease.

You may come across numerous doctors and specialists who will be qualified and highly trained professionals. They will ensure that you receive the best possible care from each of them.

We have compiled some important information about mesothelioma treatment. This information is all about mesothelioma doctors and specialists who will help you in various stages of the disease.

Mesothelioma Doctors and Specialists

Each of these doctors and specialists are highly trained and belong to different fields. You will meet them at various stages of mesothelioma treatment and they will help you in choosing the most suitable treatment options for your condition.

General Practitioner/Doctor/Physician

The first person whom you would visit to confirm your symptoms or for a routine check up is your general practitioner also known as doctor or general physician. You doctor will conduct the initial tests, take your medical history and other details that will help him/her in determining if you are indeed suffering from mesothelioma cancer. If your doctor is certain that the symptoms you are experiencing result from mesothelioma, s/he will refer you to a mesothelioma specialists or a cancer care team.

Pulmonologist

Pulmonologist is a specially trained physician who is specifically trained and has extensively researched in the field of lung disorder. People suffering from pleural mesothelioma or mesothelioma of lining of the lungs are especially referred to a pulmonologist.

A pulmonologist is qualified to diagnose and treat conditions relating to lungs such as lung cancer, pleural mesothelioma, asbestosis or lung scarring and other lung related issues.

Thoracic Surgeon

A specially trained surgeon who can perform the surgeries of heart, lungs, chest and oesophagus is called thoracic surgeon. Thoracic surgeons are qualified to deal with all kinds of lung conditions such as coronary disease, lung and abdominal cancer and heart and lung surgeries.

Medical Oncologist

A physician who is trained or specialized in the field of chemotherapy is known as medical oncologist. A medical oncologist treats various forms of cancer with the help of drug therapy also known as chemotherapy in which the drug is given either orally or intravenous to kill the cancer cells. There are various types of oncologists, all of whom are specialists in cancer treatment.

Radiation Oncologist

Another mesothelioma specialist is a radiation oncologist who is also an expert professional in the field of cancer. Radiation oncologist treats cancer with radiation therapy, another form of treatment that makes use of high energy rays for killing cancer cells.

Radiologist

A radiologist is a trained physician in the field of images. The radiologist uses image equipment such as x-rays, scans and ultrasounds to diagnose cancerous diseases and extent of tumors in the body.

Pathologist

A trained physician who monitors and evaluates the cell changes that indicate the presence of cancer is known as pathologist. Pathologists check for the tumors or cancer in the body by examining the bodily fluids and excretions such as urine, blood, stool and sputum.

Pathologists identify the biological changes in the cells and also perform post mortems. They do not work directly with the patient but help in diagnosing and treating their cancer.

Social Worker

A social worker is not exactly a member of the medical team that helps patient with treatment. Instead, a social worker provides invaluable support and encouragement to the patients when they need it most i.e. while going through treatment and suffering from emotional and physical pain.

Respiratory Therapist

A respiratory therapist is a trained medical worker, expert in evaluating, treating and monitoring patients who face breathing problems while suffering from pleural mesothelioma or any other type of mesothelioma.

Counselor

A counselor provides assistance and advice to people suffering from mesothelioma. A counselor helps a patient who is going through immense physical and mental turmoil and needs aid in coping with his/her condition as realization of suffering from mesothelioma can lead to severe depression and anxiety.

During your mesothelioma treatment, you will be meeting and working with several people at once who will not only help you fight this disease but also help you cope with it. At one point or another you may come in contact with one or more of these specialists. However, it depends on the type and extent of your mesothelioma cancer.

All these people are professionals in their respective fields and together act as a mesothelioma cancer team to give you the best medical and educational care and support possible to fight this malignant disease.

Mesothelioma Treatment Options

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There are a number of treatment options for you if you are diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma. The kind of medical treatment you get depends on the type of mesothelioma you have. Also, the medical options are considered for a patient keeping in mind:

* Size of the cancer
* Location of the tumor
* Spread of cancer cells in the body
* Patient’s response to treatment
* Appearance of cancer like cells under microscope
* Age of mesothelioma patient

Apart from the traditional treatment options for mesothelioma, there are also some new medical options which are being worked out. These options are still in their testing phase and not all of them are given to mesothelioma patients. However, the most common of treatment options for mesothelioma are:
Surgery

In some mesothelioma cases, it becomes necessary to operate the affected area to remove the cancer tissue to lessen the pain or improve the quality of patients’ life. There are several types of surgery for treating mesothelioma, they are

* Pleurectomy/decortication – it removes the affected part and the surrounding tissues from the chest or abdominal lining
* Pneumonectomy – it is a more aggressive surgery which involves removal of the affected lung to remove mesothelioma
* Thoracentesis – in this process a needle is used to drain the excess fluid or pleural effusion from the lungs to reduce the pressure on lungs and aid breathing
* Extrapleural pneumonectomy – in this type of surgery, the affected lung is removed with the lining and diaphragm from the affected area around the heart

In some cases, surgery is the last resort for people suffering from mesothelioma.
Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high energy x-rays to kill the cancerous cells and reduce the tumor size. It helps in relieving pain and shortness of breath. It may be given from a machine outside the body which is external radiation or it may involve putting materials known as radioisotopes which produce radiation through thin plastic tubes in the body where the cancer cells are located.

Patients who are not well enough to sustain surgery are given radiation as a substitute means of relieving symptoms such as shortness of breath, bleeding, pain and swallowing problems. However, it should be noted that radiation also has some side effects which can cause considerable discomfort to the patient.
Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill the cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be administered either in the form of pills or intravenously or it may also be injected into the affected area. Chemotherapy drugs are known to disrupt the growth of mesothelioma cancer cells in the body. Altima and Onocase are some of the effective chemotherapty medicines which are used for treating mesothelioma.

The drugs which are given for chemotherapy also carry a risk of side effects with them and cause numerous other problems too like vomiting, hair loss and anorexia. Side effects can also vary depending upon the drugs used for chemotherapy.
Some Newer Treatment Options for Mesothelioma

They are administered depending on the stage and location of the cancer as well as the age of the patient. They can reduce the intensity of the pain as well as prolong the life of patient. Some newer treatment options for mesothelioma are:

* Photodynamic
* Angiogenesis
* Gene therapy
* Immunotherapy

Photodynamic therapy uses special drugs and light to kill cancer cells during surgery. Before surgery, a drug is injected in to the veins, which makes cancer cells more sensitive to light. This treatment is being especially studied for early stages of pericardial mesothelioma.

Immunotherapy is a simple treatment option which uses body’s natural defense to combat the mesothelioma cancer. However, it is not easy to use this method as patient’s body is already weakened due to the disease.

In Gene therapy, a modified virus is directly injected into chest cavity which treats the patients with an anti-viral drug by killing cancer cells. However, injecting the drug is not an easy task. Clinical trials are underway all over the states to help patients in fighting mesothelioma in the best possible way.

Being a rare and incurable cancer, mesothelioma can only be treated if it is diagnosed on time and the patient gets proper treatment. Doctors are trying out new medical options to effectively treat this form of cancer.

Caring for Mesothelioma Patients

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It is very appalling and terrifying to learn that your loved one is suffering from mesothelioma. You may not know what to do, how to console your loved one and fight with circumstances to make everything go back to normal.

Being a malignant and fatal cancer, it takes a lot of strength and will to fight and overcome this cancer and live a healthy life. Once mesothelioma develops, it takes a long time and grueling effort both from the patients and their loved ones to maintain their sanity and live a normal life.

When stricken with mesothelioma, the patient may become dejected and lose hope. Even simple activities like eating and talking become a tough chore. In such conditions, it is YOU - the family members and loved ones who need to come forward and help them in this difficult time.

Caring for Mesothelioma patients can be emotionally and physically draining for you too. However, instead of crying and thinking about the worst that could happen, you need to focus on what you can do to make this period easier for the patients. What your loved ones need from you is understanding, love and patience to help them fight this cancer!

Here are some tips on caring for mesothelioma patients:

Put a brave face for the patient

If you have made up your mind to care for your loved one suffering from mesothelioma, you need to present a brave and courageous face. Even though you are very frightened of what will happen next, you have to ensure the patient that all will be well. You have to build up their confidence and boost their morale. This will give them will to fight this deadly cancer.

Get knowledge about the disease

You can only take care of the mesothelioma patient if you know well about the disease. Learn about mesothelioma, how it is caused and can be treated. Also learn how you can take care of the patient in the best possible way. There is lots of information available in books and internet websites which provide you ample knowledge about taking care of a mesothelioma patient.

Whether it is peritoneal mesothelioma, pericardial or pleural mesothelioma, patients need the best of treatment and care to restore them back to life. You can consult a mesothelioma doctor too for additional knowledge. Armed with proper awareness, you can deal with everything that comes your way.

Handle the patient with love and patience

Mesothelioma patients become tired very soon and they feel drained off all energy and life. In this time, you can encourage them to go on with their lives and keep them happy. This may not be an easy task as knowing that they might die is a very disturbing thought. They may also face anxiety and depression. You can always talk to them, listen to what they say and share your own feelings with them. During this time, the patients need extra love, care and patience.

Ensure regular intake of medicines

While treatment for mesothelioma is underway, ensure that the patient takes all of his/her medicine on time and as per schedule. Regular intake of medicines makes a wealth of improvement in the patient’s condition. Sometimes, patients may not take the medicine for the fear of addiction such as morphine and other painkillers. However, your role as a caretaker is to ensure that taking medicines regularly is a vital part of treatment and way to relieve pain.

Even when the patient seems well enough to pass the medicine, do not take a chance and continue to take it for as long as the doctor has prescribed.

Maintain a progress report of the patient

You can talk to the doctor and keep a progress report where you can jot down the patient’s daily condition. This will tell you if the treatment being given is working or not. This way you can tell the doctor about the patient’s progress and improvement. You will see that even though in a minor way, you will see your loved one improving and returning back to normal life.

Caring for mesothelioma patients is not an easy chore. However, with your will and love to care for them and support them, you will be able to give them a new lease of life. With medicines and proper care, the patients can almost lead a normal life and avoid pain.

Mesothelioma legal FAQs are important questions

2007-06-13T01:57:00.001-07:00

Mesothelioma legal FAQs are important questions which will help you make a better choice when hiring a lawyer to file a lawsuit against the responsible

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare but fatal cancer which can strike your lungs, abdomen and heart.

How do I get mesothelioma?

You can get mesothelioma from asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a mineral fiber which if inhaled, can settle in the lining of the lungs, stomach and heart and cause cancerous growth of cells.

What should I do if I am diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease like malignant mesothelioma?

If you are diagnosed with any asbestos related disease such as malignant mesothelioma, you should immediately see a doctor who can start prompt treatment for this cancer. You should also consult a mesothelioma attorney to see if legal action can be taken against the party responsible for asbestos exposure.

Why do I need legal help if I get malignant mesothelioma?

You need legal help because a lawyer or mesothelioma attorney can help you get a fair compensation from the responsible party. Being an acclaimed cause of Mesothelioma which leads to death, asbestos is banned in the US and many other countries. Thus, if it was used intentionally, the people accountable for it are legally bound to pay the mesothelioma victims.

Is there specific period of time for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit?

Yes, individual states of US have laws which are known as Statues of Limitations. These laws specify the time limit these victims have during which they can take legal action against the asbestos industry.

What expenses does this mesothelioma compensation cover?

This compensation can help you cover the escalading medical treatment bills which result from mesothelioma tests and treatment. They cannot give back your life but they can compensate for the mental as well as physical pain and anguish which you and your family goes through during this disease. It can also ensure the financial security of your family, after you are gone.

I am not rich enough to afford an attorney. What shall I do if I want to file a mesothelioma lawsuit?

One good thing about filing a mesothelioma case is that the lawyers do not demand out-of-pocket fees for legal expenses. Under a contingency fee arrangement, the lawyers receive a percentage of your total recovery only if they win the case and secure a settlement for you. If they are not able to get you any compensation, they do not get anything. All the expenses of litigating your case will be deducted from the portion of recovery once you win compensation. This is good news for people who cannot afford a mesothelioma attorney.

What kind of compensation can I expect from a mesothelioma lawsuit?

Due to unique nature of each case, every person is entitled to a different amount of compensation. Compensation depends on the nature of your disease, proof of exposure to asbestos, financial condition of the responsible company and laws and jurisdiction of the state and other important facts. An experienced attorney can help you secure a good amount of compensation keeping all these things in mind.

What if I die during the case or before a settlement is reached?

In most of the cases, if you pass away before the court case is settled, your family can continue to fight on your behalf. The executor of your estate will act as the personal representative and receive compensation from your case. Family members of mesothelioma patients have the right to seek compensation for their personal loss.

Can I settle my case out of court or will I have to go to trial?

Settling cases out of court is no unusual occurrence. There may be several defendants in your lawsuit depending on the asbestos products you were exposed to. Some defendants may agree to an out-of-court settlement under agreement with the law firm or others might settle on the ‘courthouse steps’ as it is said. In some cases, it is necessary to undergo a trial to receive a fair compensation.

Why are mesothelioma lawyers successful in winning the case?

The main reason that mesothelioma lawyers are successful in winning the case and securing compensation for their clients is the irresponsibility of employers who exposed them to asbestos. If this asbestos exposure would have been avoided or workplace safety had been ensured, the patient would not be suffering from mesothelioma. Due to the blame which lies with the employer, the mesothelioma lawyers are able to justify the case in court and win. Also, mesothelioma law is strict and helps in getting a fair verdict in favor of its victims.

How do I select the best mesothelioma attorney for fighting my case?

To fight your mesothelioma lawsuit and get the highest compensation, it is important that you get an experienced and reputable lawyer. Due to the increase in mesothelioma cases, there has been an influx of mesothelioma lawyers but you need to find a lawyer who can help you win your case.

What should I look for in an expert mesothelioma lawyer?

An expert mesothelioma lawyer always prepares the case beforehand and conducts thorough research before filing it. S/he understands the complexities involved in such cases including asbestos related issues, time constraints to file the case and medical issues. It is important that the lawyer you have chosen pays equal importance to all issues to make sure that s/he is fully prepared to fight your case.

What are the legal options available to victims of asbestos exposure?

If you were exposed to asbestos and have been diagnosed with asbestos related diseases such as asbestosis, lungs cancer or mesothelioma, you can file a legal claim against the manufacturers, seller and installers of asbestos products. The United States law fully supports the asbestos victims and helps them get fair compensation for their suffering.

I don’t remember when or how I was exposed to asbestos? What can I do?

A majority of people diagnosed with Mesothelioma or other asbestos diseases cannot recall when or how they were exposed to asbestos. Your mesothelioma doctor or attorney can help in this context as you may not be familiar with the wide range of products and places where asbestos is used. Due to long latency period of the disease, you may forget where you were exposed to this deadly mineral.

What are stages of the mesothelioma lawsuit?

There may be different stages to each case. However, some of them are common in all. They are:

Initial sessions in which you contact your attorney, discuss your case and decide if you should file a legal claim. In this process your lawyer will gather the facts and other records which indicate your exposure to asbestos and mesothelioma
Filing the complain is the next step where the case is filed in the court against the responsible party which can be manufacturers, sellers or suppliers of asbestos products
Prosecuting the case is the third step when the court case is scheduled. Investigation is carried out which includes talking to co-workers, family members, acquiring documents and other important things which will be helpful in your case.
As the case progresses, some defendants or the responsible industry may try to make an out of court settlement while offering compensation. This way a case is settled even before a trial begins.
If an out-of-court settlement does not take place, the trial begins on the fixed date. During the trial, testimony and evidence is presented in the court to support the case and win compensation for the mesothelioma victim.

17. How can I help my attorney during the lawsuit and trial?

You can help your attorney by providing him/her with all your up to date and current medical report, you past employment records and answering all the questions correctly which may help him/her in winning the case.

Mesothelioma Glossary

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Alveoli: tiny air sacs present in the lungs that help in oxygen/blood exchange. Alveoli are the cells that are mostly affected by asbestosis

Asbestos: the name given to 6 naturally occurring fibrous minerals that are used in insulation, construction and various other industries for their fire resistant property

Asbestosis: scarring and damaging of the lung tissues caused by inhalation of asbestos fibers and dust or asbestos exposure

Benign: a condition that is not dangerous or life threatening

Biopsy: removal of the abnormal tissues or cells with help of a needle to check for cancerous growth in that particular area of the body

Bronchoscopy: a thin lighted tube called bronchoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth to examine the breathing passage at the entrance of lungs

Butchart staging system: staging system with I to IV stages, to judge the stages of mesothelioma cancer depending on the scarring of the tissues

Cancer: abnormal or uncontrolled cell growth that is caused by mutation of cellular DNA. Cancer is benign or malignant/fatal

Chemotherapy: a form of cancer treatment by drugs given in form of pills or injected in the veins. It helps to kill the cancerous cells

CT scan: a type of x-ray that takes cross sections pictures of the body and shows mesothelioma affected areas

Curative treatment: treatment that aims to produce a cure of the disease

Gene therapy: of mesothelioma treatment that affects the way the body recognizes cancer

Immunotherapy: a new kind of treatment that induces a pro-inflammatory response

Latency period: the time period between the actual exposure to a harmful agent like asbestos and the appearance of cancer symptoms like mesothelioma

Malignant: cancerous growth of cells that can prove fatal if not controlled on time

Mesothelium: tissues formed by the special cells lining the chest, abdominal cavities and lungs. Mesothelium produces a lubricating fluid that helps organs to move freely

Mesothelioma: a cancer of the lining of the lungs, chest and stomach caused by inhalation of asbestos dust and fibers or asbestos exposure

Metastasize: a cancerous growth that invades a healthy organ or tissue from an already affected organ

Multimodal therapy: use of more than one kind of treatments to kill the mesothelioma cells

Pericardium: the lining of the chest or the sac that contains the heart and produces fluid that allows the heart to beat easily

Peritoneum: the lining that surrounds the abdominal cavity or the stomach and secretes fluid needed to ensure proper movement of stomach and intestine

Pleura: the lining of the lungs that secretes a fluid which allows the lungs to move as they inhale and exhale

PET scan: (Positron Emission Tomography Scan); a procedure in which a small amount of radioactive glucose is injected in the body and a scanner is used to make detailed pictured of the area where glucose is injected to detect the cancer cells

Pleural effusion: accumulation of fluid between the lining of the lungs and the chest cavity that causes pain and shortness of breath

Radiation therapy: use of high energy rays to destroy the mesothelioma cells inside the body

Vermiculite: a naturally occurring mineral used for insulation and other purposes. Sometimes vermiculite is contaminated with asbestos that can cause asbestos related diseases