Asbestos is a natural organic substance that is mined from the earth crust. It is a fireproof material that has a variety of industrial uses. Asbestos was first discovered in Egypt where their kings use it as napkins which is cleaned by simply throwing it into fire. The ancients also asbestos in burying their kings in order to preserve the ash of the bodies. The word originates from a Greek word meaning "unquenchable". The first incidence of death due to asbestos was reported in 1906 in the United Kingdom. Soon after this, the medical term "Mesothelioma" was coined.
Mesothelioma denotes a cancer of the epithelium. There are three forms of Mesothelioma: pericardia, pleural and peritoneal Mesothelioma. In pericardia Mesothelioma the membrane covering the heart is invaded by cancerous cells. Associated symptoms include: heart murmur, heart palpitation, increased blood pressure, etc. Pleural Mesothelioma is characterized by wheezing, dry cough, pleural effusion, and reduced lung functions such as lowered lung capacity. i.e. the ability of the lungs to take in air and blow out carbon dioxide is reduced. As, abdominal swelling and weight loss is seen in pleural Mesothelioma. We have discussed the various forms of Mesothelioma. Lets take some time to dwell on the uses of asbestos.
Asbestos is used for many purposes some of which include insulation, fire-proofing of buildings and ships, cement production, gaskets, clutch plates, fire blankets, stage curtains, caulk, plaster, dry wall and joint compound, gas mask filters, interior fire doors, and dental cast linings.
Mesothelioma is often not diagnosed on time because the patient do not report to their doctors on time. A good history of occupation, and place of residence has proved to helpful in the diagnosis of Mesothelioma. The use of imagining techniques which emerged on the turn of the century is proving very helpful in diagnosis. A microscopic field displaying asbestos fibers is a confirmatory diagnosis for the cancer.
Treatment options for Mesothelioma includes surgery. There are two major types of surgery done. We have wide local excision or obliteration of the pleural space. While the later involves the removal of normal tissues alongside with diseased tissue, the former involves the precise, accurate removal of tumor from the body or tissue.
In the history of the United States, asbestos litigation is the longest running mass tort litigation. This allows an individual to bring a law suit against an industry or manufacturer who is responsible for the unhealthy exposure of asbestos. There are many lawyers you can contact in your local area in case you are affected.
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