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Asbestosis, Silicosis & Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer. "Mesothelioma" is the term used to describe a cancerous tumor which involves the mesothelial cells of an organ, usually the lungs, heart or abdominal organs. The most common type of mesothelioma is the pleural mesothelioma. The pleura is a thin membrane found between the lungs and the chest cavity. It provides a lubricated surface so that the lungs do not chafe against the chest walls. Thus, a pleural mesothelioma is often referred to as a "lung" cancer. Another form of mesothelioma is the peritoneal mesothelioma. The peritoneum is the membrane that encloses the organs of the abdomen. While peritoneal mesotheliomas are less common than pleural mesotheliomas, they tend to be more invasive, and thus result in a shorter life expectancy for the patient. Mesotheliomas have also been found in the stomach and other abdominal organs.

Mesotheliomas, like other types of cancer (e.g., adenocarcinoma), typically consist of two general types-benign and malignant. By far the most common mesothelioma is the diffuse malignant pleural mesothelioma. This type of tumor is invasive and very aggressive. It spreads quickly over the surface of the lungs, abdominal organs or heart. Life expectancy for victims of this disease typically ranges between four and twenty-four months, depending on the stage at which the disease is detected, the relative health and strength of the patient, and a variety of other factors. The average patient with diffuse malignant pleural mesothelioma survives for between four and twelve months from the onset of symptoms. With proper care, some victims have survived for several years.

Asbestosis is a lung condition, often referred to as a "diffuse pulmonary fibrosis" which results from the inhalation of asbestos fibers. It is one of a number of diseases categorized as occupational lung disease or environmental lung disease. A unique aspect of asbestosis that distinguishes it from other fibrotic diseases (such as silicosis) is the presence of asbestos bodies and fibers in the lung tissue. Additionally, asbestos bodies and fibers have been detected in small numbers beyond the lung: in tonsils, thoracic and abdominal lymph nodes, pleura, peritoneum, liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, small and large intestines, esophagus and stomach.

Typically, asbestos particles are inhaled into the lungs by exposed individuals in large quantities. The body's defense mechanisms respond to asbestos fibers by attacking them, which forms the characteristic fibrosis which can often be detected with an x-ray or CT Scan. Asbestosis is a disease process which is progressive and irreversible in nature. It typically leads to subsequent respiratory disability. In the most severe cases, asbestosis may lead to death from pulmonary hypertension and cardiac failure.

Asbestosis is generally considered to be a restrictive lung disease. The fibrosis which forms reduces the lung's ability to expand and exchange oxygen (distensibility)This "stiff lung" condition reduces all volumes and capacities of the lungs. A person with asbestosis tends to breathe more rapidly as a compensatory reaction to his or her diminished lung capacity.

If you or a loved one is suffering from Asbestosis or Mesothelioma, contact the Law Offices of Jason T. Mackey today for a free consultation so that we may assess the merits of your case.  Call us toll-free at 1-866-739-9595 or use our online case submission form.