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Mesothelioma and Asbestosis There are some key differences between mesothelioma and asbestosis despite the fact that both diseases are caused from asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma, on one side, is a cancer. Mesothelioma occurs in the lining of specific organs and tissues, such as those that cover the lungs (pleura) or the membrane that covers the abdominal cavity (peritoneum). It is sometimes difficult to determine mesothelioma's diagnosis because symptoms resemble those of other diseases. This is because asbestos-related diseases have a long latency period. Symptoms Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the mesothelium, a layer of tissue that surrounds certain organs and cavities within the body. It is most often found in the lungs, but it can also occur in other areas of the body like the stomach, the heart, and the abdomen. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the stage and type of the disease. There are a few common symptoms such as chest pain weight loss, persistent coughing, and difficulty breathing. Fatigue and anemia are common symptoms of mesothelioma. Mesothelioma can spread to other areas of the body, and when it does, it's known as metastatic mesothelioma. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to see a doctor immediately. Asbestosis is usually caused by years of exposure to asbestos dust and fibres. It is a slow-moving illness and due to its lengthy latency period, most people don't even recognize they have it until years after exposure. Asbestosis isn't as harmful as mesothelioma, since it does not spread. However it can still cause lung problems and respiratory problems. Both mesothelioma as well as asbestosis are caused by exposure to asbestos. The main distinction between the two conditions is that mesothelioma is a malignant tumor that develops in the mesothelium. asbestosis does not. A person suffering from pleural mesothelioma might experience a constant non-productive cough as well as chest wall pain. Some patients experience difficulty swallowing and changes in the shape of their fingers which is known as clubbing. Certain patients with pleural mesothelioma have the formation of abdominal fluid known as anascites. Mesothelioma treatments are more aggressive and focus on extending life expectancy. Asbestosis is treated in a less intensive way. Treatment for asbestosis is focused on improving the quality of life and relieving symptoms. This can be accomplished by draining fluid from the chest, which is called thoracentesis. It also involves using medications to ease pain. Asbestosis patients can be treated for severe cases by lung transplants, however this is not a possibility for mesothelioma patients. Mesothelioma patients can also receive palliative care that is focused on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Diagnosis Inhaling asbestos fibres can trigger many symptoms, such as shortness of breath, cough and fatigue. These symptoms can be difficult to identify because they can mimic other ailments. Asbestosis is a lung disease that causes scarring of the respiratory tract and lungs making it more difficult to breathe. It can also affect other organs and cause abdominal pain, fluid buildup and changes in the shape of fingers and toes (finger clubbing). Both mesothelioma (a cancerous disease) and asbestosis are caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a grouping of minerals made up of microscopic fibers. Both diseases are caused by this exposure, but they have different symptoms and a distinct time of latency. Mesothelioma, which is a rare type of cancer, develops within the mesothelium, the protective layer that covers specific organs and cavities inside the body. It can be found in the lungs, abdomen and the heart. Mesothelioma is more likely to develop when a person has been exposed to asbestos numerous times. To determine if mesothelioma is present, doctors will typically order chest X-rays and CT scans to detect visual signs of abnormalities in the lungs. They may also perform a biopsy in order to determine the type of mesothelioma the patient is suffering from. There are many ways to perform a mesothelium biopsy such as a needle biopsy, bronchoscopy or video-assisted surgery. The kind of biopsy that is required will depend on where the mesothelioma is located and what part of the lining of the pleura it is located in. The patient's symptoms and their history of exposure to radiation can be used to identify mesothelioma. Based on the type of mesothelioma, patients may be treated with radiation or chemotherapy to alleviate symptoms. In certain cases it is possible to use surgery to remove the affected tissue and decrease the size of the tumors. There is no cure for mesothelioma at the present moment, however patients can receive palliative treatments to improve their quality of life. Mesothelioma as well as asbestosis have the potential for recurrence even after treatment has been completed. This is why it's crucial to have regular follow-up appointments. A mesothelioma expert can use this to identify recurrences and monitor the progress of the disease. Treatment Both mesothelioma as well as asbestosis happen due to exposure to asbestos. Although they are incurable, treatment options may prolong the life of patients for decades. Mesothelioma is a cancer that occurs in the mesothelium, which lines the lungs as well as the chest cavity, abdomen and abdomen. Mesothelioma is different from lung cancer, but symptoms may resemble the symptoms of either. Asbestosis is a less-common condition that results from prolonged exposure to airborne asbestos fibers. They can cause irritation to lung tissue, leading to scarring that can impede breathing. Asbestos inhalation can increase the risk of developing lung infections. Smoking accelerates the progression of the condition. A doctor will examine the patient and listen to the lungs when asbestosis is identified. In some instances, the doctor will order lung-function tests and chest X-rays. If mesothelioma has been suspected it is recommended that a biopsy be taken of the pleural mesothelium and tested in a laboratory. The procedure involves inserting a needle into the chest or abdomen and removing a small amount of fluid, and then examining it for evidence of malignant cells. Based on the type of mesothelioma being treated, surgery or chemotherapy may be recommended. The removal of asbestos-laden tissue (known as pleurectomy or decortication) can enhance a patient's quality of life for patients suffering from severe asbestosis, as well as reduce the severity of complications. A doctor can also drain the fluid from the chest (a process called thoracentesis) and, in certain cases, perform a surgical procedure called pleurodesis in order to ease breathing issues caused by asbestosis or other ailments. In addition to pain-relieving treatments doctors can also help patients control their breathing problems and other symptoms with regular follow up appointments and exercise for pulmonary rehabilitation. They can also prescribe oxygen therapy, and in some cases they may recommend an organ transplant. People suffering from lung diseases that result from asbestos are at a high risk of developing other health issues like heart disease and cancer. To lower the risk one should quit smoking and be current with vaccinations for influenza and pneumonia. They should also call their physician immediately when they experience fever, shortness or breath and cough. Prognosis Inhalation of asbestos fibres could cause mesothelioma as well as asbestosis, a lung disease. Both diseases have similar symptoms, including chest discomfort, persistent coughing and shortness of breath. But mission viejo asbestos lawyer is a cancer while asbestosis is not. Both asbestosis and mesothelioma are incurable diseases that could take years to develop. The prognosis for mesothelioma is based on a variety of factors such as the stage, location, and the type of cell. Epithelioid is the most frequent type, has a better outlook than sarcomatoid or biphasic mesothelioma. Additionally, a patient's age and gender may influence their mesothelioma's prognosis. Patients of a younger age and gender tend to have better odds than men. The latency period also plays a crucial role in determining the mesothelioma diagnosis. The longer an individual is exposed to asbestos, the greater their chances of developing symptoms. Typically, the time of latency for mesothelioma ranges between 10 and 50 years after exposure. Since mesothelioma can be so rare, it can be difficult to diagnose. This is particularly true in the early stages when symptoms are milder and can be misdiagnosed as other diseases. It is important that doctors thoroughly examine pathology reports, and ask for an opinion from a second source. Both asbestosis and mesothelioma can cause a buildup of fluid in the lungs that is known as an Pleural effusion. Pleural effusions may be an indication of both conditions but they are not life-threatening. The symptoms of asbestosis are similar the symptoms of other lung disorders like chronic obstruction of the lungs (COPD). Asbestosis isn't cancer and does not spread throughout the body like mesothelioma can. The person suffering from asbestosis could suffer from symptoms for a long time and may require oxygen therapy. Contact a patient advocate if you or someone you love have questions regarding mesothelioma and asbestosis symptoms. We can help you locate a doctor to get a diagnosis and a treatment plan.