Peritoneal Mesothelioma Asbestos Symptoms
Peritoneal mesothelioma asbestos symptoms typically affect the digestive system. This is because asbestos fibers get consumed and are absorbed into the lining of the stomach and peritoneum.
As time passes, these fibers cause changes to healthy peritoneal cells. In the end, cancerous tumors form in the peritoneum.
The diagnosis of mesothelioma can be difficult. The early signs can be similar to symptoms of other conditions such as hernia or IBS.
Symptoms
When asbestos fibers are inhaled they can enter the lungs and then travel throughout the body. The fibers then become trapped in the linings of the abdomen and other organs. This causes inflammation and irritation, which can lead to the development of tumors. This process can take decades to develop, and a lot of victims are unaware that they have asbestos exposure until it is too late.
Asbestos fibers may get caught in the tissues that line the abdominal cavity or other organs, leading to malignant peritoneal melanomas. It is the second most frequent mesothelioma type. However it can be difficult for doctors to identify since the first symptoms aren't specific. It is also possible that they are similar to gastrointestinal disorders. Patients with peritoneal mesothelioma frequently experience stomach pain, fatigue and digestive issues.
Mesothelioma sufferers are usually diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma after undergoing a physical examination, a medical history review and an array of laboratory tests. A CT scan and an X-ray can help doctors detect lumps or other signs of disease. In some instances mesothelioma specialists may also order a biopsy to obtain a more accurate diagnosis.
Peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms generally start in the abdominal region and can result in severe abdominal pain and weight loss, bloating stomach fluid accumulation, nausea, vomiting and other digestive issues. Other symptoms include chest pain, swelling, and fatigue. When these symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical attention as they may be caused by other conditions.
Despite the difficulties in diagnosing peritoneal msothelioma patients can often receive the right treatment to prolong their lives. In the majority of cases, the treatment involves surgery and heated chemo.
If you or someone you love have been diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, contact one of our mesothelioma lawyers today to find out how we can assist. We can help you locate an expert in mesothelioma near you who can assist you in filing a lawsuit against asbestos companies responsible for your exposure. We can also help ensure that you receive the financial compensation you deserve. Fill out our online form to begin the process. We can assist you to get the best outcome possible by working with the best mesothelioma lawyers.
Diagnosis
To diagnose peritoneal Msothelioma it is essential to take a an exhaustive medical history. Doctors will ask the patient about their asbestos exposure and the date it happened. They also conduct a physical exam. Initial tests typically include blood tests and X-rays, as well as CT scans.
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a difficult cancer to identify because of its long period of latency. Patients may experience symptoms like abdominal discomfort, nausea, and fever that may resemble other ailments. These symptoms that are not specific can confuse doctors. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take years to show symptoms following exposure to asbestos, is a rare condition.
Asbestos fibers inhaled, or consumed move into the stomach lining known as the peritoneum. Asbestos fibers are sharp and irritate mesothelium after they reach the peritoneum. As time passes this irritation can cause inflammation and scar tissue formation. Eventually, this leads to abnormal cell growth and tumors forming.
There are no FDA-approved screening tests for mesothelioma of the peritoneum, but researchers are working on developing methods to detect the disease in its early stages. Staging mesothelioma is important as it determines the treatment options.
A mesothelioma specialist can perform paracentesis (percutaneous needle biopsy) to take samples for lab testing. These tests can help identify the kind of cancer cells (epithelioid biphasic, sarcomatoid, or epithelioid) within the tumor and help doctors determine a treatment strategy.
Specialists in mesothelioma are able to determine the stage of the patient. The stage determines the most effective treatments and also helps mesothelioma lawyers understand which asbestos companies are liable in mesothelioma suits.
When a mesothelioma doctor analyzes the results of a biopsy they create an a pathology report which contains specifics about the kind of mesothelioma. The report could also include the staging scale, which indicates how far the cancer has spread throughout the body. The more advanced the stage of cancer, the less likely the patient will be able to respond to treatment. A lawyer can explain the implications of this to a particular client's case.
Treatment
When swallowed or inhaled asbestos fibers get encased in the tissues that line the abdomen and other organs. These fibers damage DNA and irritate cells. As time passes, this leads to the development of tumors in the lining. The majority of the time, peritoneal mesothelioma is found in the abdomen's lining called the peritoneum. Peritoneal Mesothelioma is more prevalent in women than pleural Mesothelioma, however, it is less prevalent.
The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are similar to those of gastrointestinal conditions like irritable bowel disorder and Crohn's disease. This makes it difficult for doctors to diagnose the condition. Early symptoms can be misinterpreted as other conditions and can last for months or even years before mesothelioma diagnosis is made.
A physician will also conduct tests on blood and imaging to rule out any other diseases or conditions that could trigger the same symptoms of mesothelioma. These tests can be used to determine the best treatment options.
A biopsy is performed by a physician to confirm the diagnosis. This is because peritoneal Msothelioma can be found in the abdominal liner. A biopsy is the removal of small amounts of tissue from the affected area to be examined by pathologists. Biopsies are able to reveal cancerous cells, and identify the type of Mesothelioma.
Once a peritoneal mesothelioma diagnosis has been confirmed, doctors will discuss treatment options with the patient. The purpose of any treatment plan is generally to decrease the size and the number of tumors. Surgery is typically the first line of defense, however, patients should also talk about the possibility of immunotherapy and chemotherapy.
Unlike the chest-based treatments for pleural mesothelioma that are administered through the lungs, peritoneal mesothelioma treatments are administered intravenously or orally. Chemotherapies like injections, such as heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) have been able to extend survival for many patients. HIPEC is a technique that was developed by mesothelioma pioneer Paul Sugarbaker.
Individuals with peritoneal asbestosis may be able to sue negligent asbestos companies. An attorney for mesothelioma can analyze the case of a patient and suggest legal options. Contact us now to get started. Memphis asbestos attorneys is absolutely free, and confidential, and there is no commitment. We offer nationwide representation.
Prognosis
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer. Because doctors have limited experience, many patients are misdiagnosed with other diseases. Fortunately, a mesothelioma specialist can aid in the diagnosis process and get patients the right treatment.
The sole known cause of mesothelioma of the peritoneal region is asbestos exposure. Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the abdominal tissues and cell changes when inhaled or consumed. As time passes, this could result in tumors that develop into mesothelioma in the peritoneum.
Manufacturing or construction is often the first place where asbestos exposure can begin. These industries can employ products that contain asbestos, such as insulation and fireproofing. Asbestos is also found in household products such as roof tiles and flooring. Even very low levels of exposure can put a person at risk of developing mesothelioma. Because mesothelioma is a chronic disease with a long time to develop, victims can sometimes be diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma decades after their initial exposure.
Peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms can resemble those of other conditions and be mistaken for a hernia, gastrointestinal issues like colitis or Crohn's disease, or other forms of abdominal cancer. Many patients don't report their asbestos exposure and don't seek medical attention. Doctors may suggest a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma. A biopsy is the removal of a small piece of tissue that is examined. This procedure can help determine the stage of mesothelioma, and if it is epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic.
If mesothelioma isn't spreading, doctors can remove the tumors. They can also provide an effective treatment. The specialist can also determine whether the cancer has spread to the abdomen. They may then recommend palliative treatments for the patient, for example paracentesis, which drains the fluid from the abdomen.
The prognosis is worsened when a mesothelioma has progressed. The reason for this is that the tumors are able to become resistant to certain treatments and can be recurred. The doctor may suggest a combination of chemotherapy and surgery. The surgical options include cytoreduction surgery along with hyperthermic intraperitoneal therapy. This combination is more likely than chemotherapy alone to improve the outlook of the patient.