The Maune Raichle Law Firm

Asbestos Lung Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, a cancer which affects the lining around organs called the mesothelium, is commonly caused by prolonged exposure to the known carcinogen asbestos. Mesothelioma results in inflammation, an effusion between mesothelium layers and decreased organ function. When mesothelioma affects the lungs it is often referred to as pleural or thoracic mesothelioma. Thoracic mesothelioma affects general lung function; shortening breathing, affecting blood oxygen saturation, and making breathing both painful and difficult.

Thoracic mesothelioma is commonly a result of the continued breathing of air which contains asbestos particles. The period of time it takes for mesothelioma to develop after the breathing of asbestos ranges from years to several decades. The symptoms of mesothelioma usually begin subtly with decreased lung capacity, painful breathing and shortness of breath and are easy to be dismissed as the result of other illnesses. Proper diagnosis is often aided by patients disclosing to their doctors that they believe they were exposed to asbestos when they go to their doctor with symptoms. The proper diagnosis of mesothelioma will usually only come after a pleural effusion is found and studied to determine the presence of cancerous cells.

Despite its affect on the lungs and breathing in general, mesothelioma is not limited to the lungs and thoracic mesothelioma can spread to other organs. It is extremely important for mesothelioma to be diagnosed as soon as possible so treatment can begin. Even though treatment is consuming and expensive, successful treatment is available to those affected by mesothelioma. Treatment is important in preventing the spread of cancer and can even help restore some lung function to many people diagnosed with mesothelioma.