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Mesothelioma and Asbestosis There are a few important differences between asbestosis and mesothelioma despite the fact both diseases are caused from asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma, on one hand, is a cancer. Mesothelioma can occur in the linings of specific organs or tissues, for example the membranes that cover the abdominal cavity and the lungs. It can be difficult to identify mesothelioma since symptoms resemble those of other diseases. This is due to the lengthy time between the onset of asbestos-related illnesses. Signs and symptoms Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, affects the mesothelium, a layer of tissue that surrounds certain organs and cavities in the body. It typically begins in the lungs, but it may also manifest in other areas of the body such as the stomach, the heart, and the abdomen. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ based on the type and stage. There are however some common symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, weight loss and chest pains. Fatigue and anemia are the most common signs of mesothelioma. Metastatic mesothelioma occurs when the cancer spreads to other areas of your body. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to see a doctor immediately. Asbestosis usually develops after years of long-term exposure to asbestos dust and fibres. It is a slow-moving disease and due to its lengthy duration of latency, the majority of people don't realize they have it until years after their exposure. Asbestosis is not as dangerous as mesothelioma because it isn't a cancerous condition. However, it can still cause respiratory problems and lung issues. Both mesothelioma as well as asbestosis are caused by exposure to asbestos. The primary difference between these two diseases is mesothelioma which is a malignant cancer that develops within the mesothelium. Asbestosis, however, is not. A person with pleural cancer may experience a persistent cough that isn't productive and chest pain. Patients may have difficulty swallowing, and their fingers may change shape. This is referred to as clubbing. Ascites is a fluid buildup in the abdomen that some pleural mesothelioma sufferers experience. Mesothelioma treatment is more aggressive, and focuses on increasing the life expectancy. Asbestosis is treated in a less intensive way. Asbestosis is treated to improve quality of life and alleviate symptoms. This can be accomplished by draining fluid from the chest, which is called thoracentesis. It also involves using medications to manage pain. Mesothelioma patients are not eligible for lung transplants for severe asbestosis cases. Mesothelioma patients also can receive palliative care that concentrates on managing symptoms and enhancing quality of life. Diagnosis Inhaling asbestos fibres can trigger many symptoms, including shortness of breath, cough and fatigue. Unfortunately, these symptoms often appear to be similar to other ailments and are difficult to diagnose until the condition has advanced. Asbestosis is a progressive lung disease that causes scarring of the lungs and respiratory tract making it more difficult to breathe. It can also affect other organs causing abdominal discomfort, fluid accumulation, and changes in finger and toe shape (finger clubbing). Mesothelioma as well as asbestosis are both caused by exposure to asbestos which is a family of minerals composed of tiny fibres. The exposure to asbestos is the root cause of both diseases, but each has a different set of symptoms and a distinct duration of latency. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that is found in the mesothelium, a protective layer around specific organs and cavities of the body. It can be located in the lungs, abdomen and heart. Mesothelioma is more likely to develop if a person has been exposed to asbestos multiple times. To diagnose mesothelioma in patients, doctors typically order chest X-rays and CT scans to detect visible signs of lung cancer. They can also conduct the procedure of a biopsy to determine the type of mesothelioma that the patient has. There are many ways to take a mesothelium biopsy, including a needle biopsy, bronchoscopy or video-assisted surgery. The type of biopsy required will depend on the location where mesothelioma is situated and the part of the lining of the pleura it is located in. Symptoms and the patient's exposure history also influence how mesothelioma can be diagnosed. Depending on the type of mesothelioma that is present, patients may be treated with chemotherapy or radiation to ease 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 as of this moment, however patients can receive palliative treatments to improve their quality of life. Mesothelioma as well as asbestosis have an increased risk of recurrence, even after treatment is completed. It is therefore essential to schedule regular follow-up visits. A mesothelioma specialist can use this to determine recurrences, and track the progression of the disease. Treatment Both mesothelioma as well as asbestosis happen as a result of exposure to asbestos. They are incurable, but treatment options can prolong life for a long time. Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the mesothelium which lines the lungs, chest cavity and abdomen. Mesothelioma is distinct from lung cancer, but symptoms may resemble those of either disease. Asbestosis, which is a less frequent condition is caused by long-term exposure to asbestos fibers in the air. They can cause irritation to lung tissue and cause scarring, which can make breathing difficult. Asbestos exposure increases the risk of lung infections. Smoking can cause the condition to develop more quickly. A doctor will examine the patient and listen to the lungs if asbestosis is diagnosed. In some instances, the doctor will order chest X-rays and lung function tests. If mesothelioma is suspected it is recommended that a biopsy be taken from the mesothelium of the pleural region to be tested in a laboratory. The procedure involves inserting a needle into the abdomen, chest or groin, and removing some fluid, then examining that fluid for signs of malignant cell. Depending on virginia asbestos lawyer , either surgery or chemotherapy may be suggested. The removal of asbestos-laden tissue (known as pleurectomy or decortication) can improve a patient's quality of life in patients with severe asbestosis, as well as reduce the severity of the complications. A doctor can also drain the fluid from the chest (a procedure known as thoracentesis) and in some cases perform a surgical procedure called pleurodesis to ease breathing problems caused by asbestosis or other ailments. Regular follow-up appointments and pulmonary rehabilitation exercises can help patients deal with breathing difficulties and other symptoms, in addition to treatments for pain relief. They may also prescribe oxygen therapy, and in some cases it is recommended to have the possibility of a lung transplant. People suffering from lung diseases that result from asbestos are at a higher risk of developing other health issues, such as cancer and heart disease. To reduce their risk, they must stop smoking and stay up with their pneumonia and influenza vaccines. They should also consult their doctor right away if they develop shortness of breath, coughing or fever. Prognosis Inhalation of asbestos fibres could cause mesothelioma as well as asbestosis, lung disease. Both illnesses share similar symptoms, such as chest discomfort, constant coughing and shortness of breath. However, mesothelioma is a cancer and asbestosis isn't. Both mesothelioma and asbestosis are incurable diseases that can take years to be diagnosed. Mesothelioma prognosis is based on a variety of factors, including the stage of the disease, the location of tumors, and the kind of cells. Epithelioid which is the most prevalent form, has a better prognosis compared to sarcomatoid or biphasic mesothelioma. The prognosis for mesothelioma may also be affected by a patient's gender and age. Patients of a younger age and gender tend to have better prognoses than males. The length of time that a person is in latency is an important factor in determining mesothelioma prognosis. The longer an individual is exposed to asbestos the greater the chance of developing symptoms. Typically, the time of latency for mesothelioma is between 10 and 50 years after exposure. Because mesothelioma is so rare, it can be difficult to diagnose. This is especially so in the beginning stages, when symptoms are less severe and may be misdiagnosed as other diseases. It is important to ensure that doctors thoroughly study pathology reports, and then request an opinion from a second source. Both asbestosis and mesothelioma cause a fluid accumulation in the lungs that is known as a pleural effusion. Pleural effusions can be a sign of both diseases, but are not life-threatening. The symptoms of asbestosis are more like those of other lung diseases, including chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD). Asbestosis does not spread like mesothelioma and isn't a cancerous form. However, a person with asbestosis will experience symptoms and it is probable that they will eventually require oxygen therapy. Contact an advocate for patients or someone you know is unsure about mesothelioma or asbestosis symptoms. We can help you find the right doctor to receive a diagnosis and treatment plan.