Thursday, January 22, 2009

Mesothelioma and Radiation Treatment

Mesothelioma treatment options are not all that varied considering that most cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed well into the latter stages of the disease when surgical removal of the cancer is no longer possible. Radiation treatments, external radiation treatments, and brachytherapy are generally considered relatively productive at improving patient life and extending longevity.

Brachytherapy is the internal placement of radiation. A small device delivers a pinpointed stream of radiation to the sight of active cancer. Brachytherapy has been proven more effective than other forms of radiation therapy since it is more controlled and able to be placed in the center of cancerous cells. The accuracy of brachytherapy has improved patient chances by about 8% in some cases.

Mesothelioma treatments are not easy on the body, and brachytherapy is no exception. External radiation treatments can often be effective in cases where brachytherapy can not be accurately or safely placed. In either case this form of mesothelioma treatment is just one option. There are surgical mesothelioma options, and some patients prefer that as much cancer as possible be removed from the body. While this does not always remove enough cancer to salvage life, it can make the patient more comfortable, especially when added to other mesothelioma treatments.

Brachytherapy is considerably new in comparison to external radiation, and some patients feel more inclined to opt for treatment options that are time tested, although brachytherapy has had few complications since its inception. Brachytherapy has had about the same number of complications as external radiation, mainly a risk of infection or a risk of a required secondary placement.

This is no more complicated than the ill effects of external radiation treatments. External radiation treatments require the patient to go to a cancer center or hospital for their mesothelioma treatments. Brachytherapy treatments do not require chronic radiation treatments, although they do require regular monitoring.

When determining a mesothelioma treatment program, it is always best to try to make decisions regarding treatment options based on what is best for the patient, rather than what can the patient or the patient's insurance afford. Unfortunately, mesothelioma treatments are quite costly, and patient decisions can often be ruled by the expense rather than the preference. This is an unfortunate flip side to improvements in mesothelioma treatments, the more technologically advanced the mesothelioma treatment is likely to be, the more expensive it often is. While this is not true in every case, it has become closer to the norm.

Because mesothelioma treatments are costly, not all mesothelioma victims are able to receive the mesothelioma treatments that they need or that would work best for them. External radiation, brachytherapy, surgical removals, and chemotherapy are only moderately expensive in comparison to other mesothelioma treatments, but when multiple treatment options are proposed, the expense naturally climbs.

Often multiple treatment options are too expensive for most mesothelioma victims, even with health insurance.
Those who have experienced the ease of brachytherapy report a 78% preference over external radiation treatments. Those who prefer the external radiation treatments cite their discomfort with the chronic release of radiation left inside their body. Naturally, medical science has tested the theory that the radiation delivered is exacting and precise and there isn't the likelihood of radiation being randomly released throughout the body.

Some patients are still more comfortable with external radiation therapies knowing that the radiation is controlled from the outside of their body and once the treatment is over, the radiation is complete.

Choosing the best mesothelioma treatment involves making decisions based on financial viability, the stress and toll it is likely to take on the body, the percentage of effectiveness, and the patient's ability to emotionally withstand the proposed treatment. Choosing between brachytherapy and external radiation treatment is a decision that only the mesothelioma victim and their family can ultimately make. The advice of doctors and other professionals may factor in, but a mesothelioma victim needs to be able to take into account what happens to their own body.

Despite the success of brachytherapy and patient comfort with external radiation, mesothelioma treatments are not typically a cure. Prolonging life and making patients as comfortable as possible is the aim of mesothelioma treatment.

This is an unfortunate fact regarding mesothelioma. The success rate of survival despite mesothelioma treatment is dramatically low. While medical research is still attempting to up the ante when it comes to mesothelioma treatments, without early detection, mesothelioma victims have an unbearably low survival rate. With new medications and new mesothelioma treatments, it is possible that one day the survival rate will eventually climb.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Types of Mesothelioma Cancer

Mesothelioma is a deadly form of cancer that affects the serous membranes surrounding the major organs of the body i.e. the lungs, heart and the abdominal organs, causing these vital organs to inflate with excessive fluid. This fluid further causes the improper functioning of the organs. The only known cause of this cancerous tumor is asbestos exposure. In this disease, malignant cells are built up in the protective linings (serous membranes) of several internal organs known as mesothelium. Different organs in the abdomen cavity can get affected by mesothelioma because of the presence of the protective linings surrounding them. The most common types of mesothelioma include:

* Pleural Mesothelioma,
* Peritoneal Mesothelioma, and
* Pericardial Mesothelioma.

Pleural Mesothelioma:
Pleural Mesothelioma is a tumor in which the lining of the lungs, or lung pleura, gets affected by malignant cells. The pleura is a soft protective tissue that surrounds the lungs in the chest cavity. It helps the lungs in breathing (respiration) by producing a serous fluid that lubricates the pleural surfaces to avoid the teasing of the lungs against the chest wall. The malignant cells, once entered the pleura, begin to spread and affect the surrounding organs and tissues. This leads to further complications resulting pain and severe symptoms.
Mesothelioma affecting pleura is of two categories:

Diffused or Malignant (Cancerous):
It is the serious form of pleural mesothelioma that affects the pleural lining of the lungs and its surrounding organs.
Localized and Benign (Non-cancerous):
It is the non-cancerous form of mesothelioma, which does not affect all parts of the body except the pleura. However, it constricts the lung causing shortness of breath, and in some severe cases, pneumothorax (lung failure).

Peritoneal Mesothelioma:
Peritoneal Mesothelioma is a tumor of the peritoneum membrane or the abdomen lining, affecting many organs in the abdominal cavity including stomach. This form of mesothelioma cancer is less common than the pleural form but is more aggressive, resulting severe symptoms and short life expectancy. Like many other cancers, peritoneal mesothelioma can also be either malignant or benign.

Pericardial Mesothelioma:
Pericardial or Pericardium Mesothelioma is the rarest form of cancer, counting less than 10% of mesothelioma cases. In this form of cancer, fluid gets accumulated in the sac that encloses the heart. The main cause of this disease is the inhalation of asbestos fibers.

Due to the rarity of this disease, doctors and researchers have not clearly understood how the asbestos fibers enter the heart lining or pericardium. The only logical explanation so far about this form of cancer is the possibility of the asbestos fibers, converted into tiny pieces, transported from the lung into the heart by means of blood circulation. Once the asbestos fibers enter the heart, they expand the tissues in the chest cavity and the pericardium with excessive liquid, disrupting the working of the heart and causing chest pains with breathing disorders.

Each year, approximately 2,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed. At some point of their lives, the patients of mesothelioma have been exposed to asbestos that later cause the hideous cancer of mesothelioma. If you, at some point of your life, have worked in an asbestos-rich environment or used any asbestos materials, you should contact a mesothelioma doctor for correct diagnosis and best treatment options available.

Monday, January 19, 2009

Pericardial Mesothelioma - Cancer of the Heart Lining

Pericardial mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the pericardium - the lining of tissue around the heart. It is the rarest form of mesothelioma, making up less than ten percent of mesothelioma cases. Like all forms of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma has been linked to asbestos exposure.

Many people believe that mesothelioma is a cancer that only affects the lungs. In fact, mesothelioma is cancer of the serous membranes, which line the three organ cavities in the center of the body. Their function is to secrete fluids to cushion and lubricate the organs within those cavities.

The pleura encases the lungs in the chest cavity, and the lubrication provided by the pleural mesothelium also helps in breathing. The peritoneal cavity contains the stomach and other abdominal organs, and is lined by the peritoneum. The pericardial cavity contains the heart, and the serous membrane that protects and surrounds it is known as the pericardium.

What Is Pericardial Mesothelioma?
Cancer is generally defined by the organ or area of the body in which it originates. Thus cancer that originates in the pericardial mesothelium is called pericardial mesothelioma.

No one is quite certain why pericardial mesothelioma is the most rare of the three known types, but some doctors have suggested that it has to do with the way that asbestos fibers work their way into the body.

Since most asbestos fibers are inhaled, it is expected that the highest percentage of mesothelioma cases would involve the pleural cavities. Asbestos fibers may make their way into the stomach and abdominal lining when phlegm and mucous containing asbestos fibers is swallowed.

Since there is no direct pathway from outside the body to the pericardium, some doctors suggest that the tiny asbestos particles literally work their way from the lungs through the pleura to invade the pericardial mesothelium.

Others theorize that the smaller asbestos fibers are carried out of the lungs by the blood, and become lodged in the heart lining as the blood is pumped through the heart. In any case, once the asbestos fibers become lodged in the serous tissue surrounding the heart, they irritate the body's immune system and the chronic inflammation may cause the growth of cancerous tumors similar to those seen in pleural mesothelioma. The tumors may grow around the heart, constricting its movement and interfering with its functioning.

The Causes of Pericardial Mesothelioma
Because of the extreme rarity of this cancer, making a definitive link to any cause is difficult. There are less than two hundred cases of pericardial mesothelioma diagnosed per year, about ten percent of all mesothelioma cases.

Pericardial mesothelioma does seem to be strongly linked to asbestos exposure, as are the other forms of mesothelioma, though the connection is more difficult to establish because of the very small number of cases diagnosed and confirmed.

The Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma
As the cancerous tumors grow and spread, the pericardial tissue expands and fluid accumulates around the heart. This can constrict the heart in its functioning and lead to chest pain and irregular heartbeat.

In most cases, pericardial mesothelioma is only discovered when it has advanced far enough to cause these physical symptoms. Occasionally, someone with pericardial mesothelioma may complain of other heart-related symptoms like shortness of breath and coughing.

Treatment for Pericardial Mesothelioma
Because the symptoms often do not become obvious until the cancer has reached the later stages of the disease, the treatment options are limited. The most common treatments recommended for this condition are surgery and radiation therapy, but the purpose is palliative (to relieve symptoms) rather than to remove or cure the cancer.

The prognosis for patients diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma is extremely poor, since the cancer is often so far advanced when it is discovered. Often, the life expectancy after diagnosis is only a couple of months.

Your Legal Rights
Because mesothelioma is linked to asbestos exposure, if you or a loved one have been diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma, you may have a legal right to compensation for your suffering and loss, as well as assistance with your medical expenses.

Companies who knowingly exposed their employees and the public to the dangers of asbestos have been held accountable for their actions by the courts, and have been forced to pay millions of dollars in compensation to those that were harmed by their recklessness and greed.

Unfortunately, the length of time between exposure to asbestos and the onset of symptoms can make it difficult to prove an association with a particular product or company. A lawyer skilled in asbestos and mesothelioma negotiation often has access to resources that will help identify those who are responsible for your condition, and understands the laws surrounding mesothelioma claims and litigation.

If you are suffering because of the negligence of the asbestos industry, contact a mesothelioma lawyer to learn about your legal rights to seek compensation for your injuries.

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Texas Mesothelioma Lawyer Can Help You Build A Case

Each year 3,000 cases of Mesothelioma are diagnosed and most of the people who are diagnosed with this deadly cancer have never heard of it. The unfortunate nature of the disease is that if the symptoms were diagnosed properly the treatment could have had an impact.

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the pleura (the lining of the lungs), around the lining of the heart or the lining of the abdominal cavity. While Mesothelioma cancer is rare, most people die after a year or two of diagnosis.

The majority of Mesothelioma cases are traced back to exposure to asbestos - and no other cause for this cancer has ever been found. Exposure to asbestos happens primarily through jobs that were held by people working with asbestos as well as some military service. Until 20 years ago, many materials and products that were used in manufacturing and construction used asbestos until it was found that exposure to the product caused Mesothelioma and other health problems.

During World War II when naval ship yards were producing many ships for the war effort, asbestos was in high use and demand. Asbestos was also being used for construction in all types of buildings, as well as the manufacturing and automobiles. Until recently, the processes and products that used asbestos were unregulated, however the risks of asbestos exposure were still well known, however the companies that use the product still continued to use asbestos freely in their practices.

One of the unfortunate truths is that many of the companies who made use of asbestos provided little in the way of education or protection of the risks of asbestos exposure to their workers. This does however leave the companies on the hook for compensating the victims of Mesothelioma.

Unfortunately, it is not only the workers who are contracting Mesothelioma, it is also their families, spouses and children, of workers who worked with asbestos are also at risk of contacting this deadly cancer. Asbestos is a nearly indestructible, very fine fiber that is easily inhaled and is then lodged in the lining of the lungs primarily, which then causes inflammation and then Mesothelioma. These fibers are easily brought home attached to skin, hair, shoes or clothing and then dislodged at home, exposing more people to the asbestos, and thusly, Mesothelioma.

If someone you love or yourself has Mesothelioma, you need to contact a Mesothelioma attorney to find out if you have a case for a Mesothelioma lawsuit. The largest difficulty with exposure to asbestos and Mesothelioma symptoms beginnings is the long time between the exposure and diagnosis. Mesothelioma doesn't usually begin to present symptoms until about 20 years after exposure to asbestos. This makes it quite difficult to diagnose the cancer and track the asbestos exposure, the cause or companies that are responsible.

The symptoms of Mesothelioma include fluid in the chest, chest pains, difficulty breathing, and coughing. Because of the nature of these symptoms and the fact that they are so similar to other medical problems, they are easily mistaken for other conditions, which can delay the diagnosis of Mesothelioma cancer. Unfortunately, by the time people are diagnosed with Mesothelioma it is too late - most people pass away within one or two years of diagnosis and conventional cancer treatments like radiation and chemotherapy have little effect on the disease.

Most of the cases of Mesothelioma can blame the companies and supervisors for whom they worked in the past dealing with asbestos. Most people and companies knew of the dangers of working with asbestos and failed to take any safety precautions for the material handlers. This cancer is devastating to those who have it and to their families, physically, emotionally and financially.

A Texas Mesothelioma lawyer can help you build a case for yourself or a loved one who has Mesothelioma. A Texas Mesothelioma attorney is the only one who is capable of tracking down the companies who are responsible for the asbestos exposure. A good Mesothelioma lawyer in Texas can help with a Mesothelioma lawsuit for financial compensation for you and your family.

A Mesothelioma lawyer can link your cancer with asbestos exposure that you had when you worked before as well as fighting for your rights and compensation for the Mesothelioma cancer you've contracted due to the exposure. While compensation won't replace a life lost to Mesothelioma cancer, it can help cover the lost wages, pain and suffering, funeral expenses and medical costs that were caused by the cancer.

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Mesothelioma is A Cancer

If a medical doctor has told you that you have mesothelioma, or a loved one has heard this, then you need to talk to your top mesothelioma lawyer in New York. Mesothelioma is a cancer that is caused almost exclusively by asbestos. Your mesothelioma lawyer can help you to determine whether or not you may be entitled to recover some of your expenses for the treatment of this cancer.

Years ago many people worked around asbestos and did not fully understand what the consequences may have been. Although it was generally known that it was very unhealthy, many industries that used asbestos took no precautions to protect their employees - or the people that lived close to the plant. This negligence puts those companies at fault and means you may be entitled to repayment of some or all of your medical expenses.

Your mesothelioma attorney will want to know where you worked or lived in order to determine if you have a case, or not. Back in the 70's - or earlier, there were four main industries that used asbestos. This included the automotive, the shipping, the railroad, and the materials industries. The shipping industry refers largely to military ships, and those that served on them earlier than the 70's. Asbestos was used heavily in a number of areas on board these ships. As far as is known, there were about 5,000 different products over the years that had asbestos in them.

If you worked in one of those industries, or lived in a place that had exposed asbestos, and have a mesothelioma diagnosis, then you should talk to your mesothelioma attorney as soon as possible. Even if you may not be aware of having been exposed to asbestos, talking to a mesothelioma attorney may provide you with information to help your memory, or to find those occasions when exposure was possible. Since asbestos is the primary culprit in mesothelioma cases, this interaction with a mesothelioma attorney may mean that you could be entitled to a mesothelioma settlement.

Mesothelioma is a very deadly cancer. There is not any cure for it at this time. Your life, however, or your loved one's life, may be prolonged a couple of years if you are able to detect it early. This cancer is caused by asbestos fibers becoming lodged in the mesothelium, which is a lining that offers protection for most of your internal organs. There are three different types of mesothelioma, that is, it primarily occurs in three different parts of your body.

Since mesothelioma could have been prevented if employers were to have taken certain steps back then, this means that they were negligent to protect their employees. Most states now have laws that allow people with mesothelioma symptoms to pursue lawsuits to recover the costs of medical expenses - or at least some of them.

In order to win your case, however, you will need to contact the top mesothelioma lawyer in New York as soon as possible. Laws pertaining to this field are rapidly changing. You want to have someone who is both experienced with mesothelioma cases, keeps on top of the mesothelioma information, and has a track record of winning many of them. This only serves to help you to win your case - since you may only have one chance to do so.

Your medical expenses for the treatment of your mesothelioma symptoms are going to be very expensive. The average cost for many mesothelioma patients is between $400,000 and $800,000. In most people's situations, however, medical treatment would be nearly impossible unless you are able to recover some money from a mesothelioma settlement. Patients are regularly filing a mesothelioma lawsuit - and winning them today.

After your mesothelioma attorney decides that there is a good possibility that you could win your case, the matter may go to court to be decided in what is referred to as a discovery process. This is not the actual lawsuit, but provides an opportunity for both sides to see what evidence there is available. After this, if the evidence appears to favor your case, procedures will be then set in place to prepare for the actual court case.

No matter what, if you hope to recover any medical costs from the treatment of your mesothelioma symptoms, you will need to contact your top mesothelioma lawyer in New York before any other steps can be taken toward your cost recovery. Why not take the time to contact the office and start your mesothelioma lawsuit today?

Mesothelioma Treatment - Importance and Classifications

If you are a victim of Mesothelioma cancer, how will you get into Mesothelioma treatment?

The best way is to find reliable Mesothelioma cancer information and learn first everything that is relevant to Mesothelioma.

Do you think that Mesothelioma treatments are effective in one or two applications only? It depends to the patient's body on how we react to the Mesothelioma treatment.

The doctor is the first one who is being aware for applying Mesothelioma treatment. We already know the advantage and disadvantage in taking them.

And most of the time Mesothelioma treatments are being useless in some reason.

Mesothelioma treatments are broken down into two categories:



1.Traditional treatments

Traditional mesothelioma treatments are similar to other standard cancer treatment modalities.

Two or more traditional mesothelioma treatments are often used together to better combat cancerous cells.

Traditional mesothelioma treatments are often used in combination with one-another to best target cancer cells.

2.New treatments.

New mesothelioma treatments are in the process of ongoing research, development and testing.

New mesothelioma treatments are being evaluated in mesothelioma clinical trials in hopes of a mesothelioma cure.

While mesothelioma treatments are slowly inhibiting the victim from being able to enjoy the life they have left, big business is slowly killing the rights of mesothelioma symptoms victims all over the country.

Most of the Mesothelioma treatment options are too high in price that ordinary victims cannot afford to have such treatment.

Various Mesothelioma Treatments

* Bronchoscopy

* Biopsy

* CT scans

* Laparocoscopy

* Mediastinoscopy

* Thorocoscopy

* Peritoneoscopy

* Radiotherapy

* X-ray

* Fluid drainage

* MRI scan

Usually, some medicines and necessary materials are used to function well. With this kind of Mesothelioma treatment, a victim will recover faster.

Having a treatment is necessary because it gives life to the patient or victim in order to survive. Put hope mostly on the family and relative of the patient, and the most important role is to cure everyone with a disease like Mesothelioma cancer.

To be better familiarized with Mesothelioma cancer, join some group or programs relative and concerned with epidemic cancer for the purpose on how to prevent cancer by applying new health technology, healthy lifestyle, diet and nutrition counseling, and alternatives.

Mesothelioma treatments are constantly being developed through clinical trials and research. Mesothelioma treatments are advancing, but the disease still claims far too many lives each year.

Mesothelioma treatments are themselves very aggressive, and invasive, and in many cases not recommended. Treatments are very expensive and usually range -between four hundred thousand and eight hundred thousand dollars.

Friday, January 16, 2009

Mesothelioma Diagnosis: What You Need To Know

If the chest x-ray is suggestive of malignant mesothelioma, it is likely that further investigations will be ordered, especially if compensation may be sought.

These investigations may include additional imaging studies, blood tests, bone scans, and lung-function tests, as well as more invasive procedures such as thoracentesis, thoracoscopy, pleuroscopy or a lung biopsy. This is a typical mesothelioma diagnosis

Mesothelioma diagnosis can be done through chest x-ray. The typical abnormalities seen on chest x-ray in patients with malignant mesohtelioma are pleural effusion (a collection of fluid in the space between the 2 layers of the pleura), or it is called pleural thickening.

Unlike lung cancer, there is no association between mesothelioma and smoking Malignancies involving mesothelial cells in these spread cavities are known as malignant mesothelioma, which may be localized or diffuse. Mesothelioma is the word used to describe a cancerous tumor that involves the mesothelial cells of an organ, often the lungs, heart, or abdominal organs.

Mesothelioma diagnosis in this disease, malignant cells develop in the mesothelium, a protective lining that covers transcendently of the spread's internal organs. Greatest malignant mesothelioma set up complex karyotypes, with extensive aneuploidy and rearrangement of tons chromosomes.

Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma diagnosis is often difficult, because the symptoms are similar to those of a number of other conditions. A history of exposure to asbestos may increase clinical suspicion for mesothelioma.

A physical examination is performed, followed by chest X-ray and often lung function tests. The X-ray may reveal pleural thickening commonly seen after asbestos exposure if mesothelioma diagnosis is done.

If the cancer has length beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the size, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or engage.
Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss and cachexia, abdominal swelling and suffering due to ascites (a buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity).

Exposure to airborne asbestos particles increases one's risk of developing malignant mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma has a peak incidence 35-45 years after asbestos exposure. Malignant mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer in which malignant cells are found in the sac lining the chest or abdomen. Most people with malignant mesothelioma have on worked on jobs where they breathed asbestos.

It can also occur in children; however, these cases are not thought to be associated with asbestos exposure.

Most people who develop mesothelioma get worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles, or have been exposed to asbestos dust and fiber in other ways, such as by washing the clothes of a family member who worked with asbestos, or by home renovation using asbestos cement products.

Treatment options a mesothelioma diagnosis for the management of malignant mesothelioma includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and multimodality treatment. Surgery in victims with disease confined to the pleural space is reasonable.

Extrapleural pneumonectomy is a more extensive procedure and has a higher mortality rate. Recently, the mortality rate has been lowered to 3.8%. It involves dissection of the parietal pleura; division of the pulmonary vessels; and en bloc resection of the lung, pleura, pericardium, and diaphragm followed by reconstruction. It provides the greatest local control because it removes the entire pleural sac along with the lung parenchyma.

The 2 surgical procedures used are pleurectomy with decortication and extrapleural pneumonectomy.
Surgical resection has been relied upon because radiation and chemotherapy get hold of been ineffective unequivocal treatments. There are now a number of cancer treatment options open to mesothelioma patients. Extrapleural pneumonectomy for selected victims with very early stage disease may expand recurrence-free survival, but the impact it has on overall survival is unknown at this time.

Mesothelioma diagnosis can be intimidating and can scare a lot of people, but mesothelioma diagnosis may give you a fighting chance if can be diagnose early. So do yourself a favor if you think that what you are suffering from and had worked in an asbestos related workplace.

The purpose of such investigations in mesothelioma diagnosis is to confirm and to determine the type of mesothelioma, to 'stage' the disease (measure how severe it is), and so to assess whether the disease is operable.

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Scientists Unveil Research Study Pointing Toward Mesothelioma Cancer Treatment

When nonseroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, are combined with Piroxicam and cisplatin (CDDP) they produce an anti-tumoral treatment of cancerous cells, specifically malignant mesothelioma cancer cells. These results, published in May 2008 in the Journal of Translational Medicine, are getting plenty of attention by both scientists as well as victims of mesothelioma cancer. Prior to this study, the prognosis for malignant mesothelioma cancer was grim, even at best, but now, researchers are breaking open a can of worms that may provide treatment for the deadly cancer caused by the inhalation of asbestos dust.

While this study offers a slice of hope for victims, the further research is required. Scientists with this study also found that the potential for determining a specific molecular target of mesothelioma cells, because of these drugs' anti-tumor effects, could lead to advances in therapy treatments of the deadly cancer.

What is Malignant Mesothelioma Cancer?

There are several varieties of mesothelioma cancer, however, malignant mesothelioma is considered one of the most lethal. According to the study, "prognosis is poor and patients have a median survival of a few months in either treated or untreated cases." Malignant mesothelioma is a rare cancer with malignant cancer cells forming on the sac lining of the chest or abdomen, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI). It is often associated with exposure to airborne asbestos particles and fibers, which increases the risk of malignant mesothelioma developing in an individual.

Signs and Symptoms of Malignant Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma is often marked by several symptoms including lumps in abdomen, weight loss, pain or swelling in the abdomen, pain under the rib cage and difficulties breathing. The cancer can also often cause fluid retention in the abdomen or around the lungs. The cancer often has symptoms similar to other conditions making misdiagnosis of the condition common.

Medical professionals have even admitted that malignant mesothelioma and lung cancer are very similar and differentiating between the two is difficult, however, there is an array of tests that physicians can use to increase the potential for a more accurate diagnosis. Tests for diagnosis may include the patient enduring physical exams, chest x-rays, biopsy of body tissues, getting a complete blood count (CBC), cytologic exam, which is an exam of cells under a microscope, or a bronchoscopy procedure where a bronchoscope is inserted into the nose or mouth for a better view of airways.

Diagnosing and Treating Malignant Mesothelioma

While treatments for mesothelioma are rare in and of themselves, it becomes increasingly difficult to treat malignant mesothelioma because of the severity of the condition. However, medical professionals take into consideration several factors prior to treatment to determine a patient's prognosis. The following is a detailed list of these factors, according to the NCI:

* The stage of cancer, which includes stage I or localized malignant mesothelioma or advanced malignant mesothelioma that includes stage II, stage III and stage IV.

* The size of a tumor.

* Potential for tumor removal through a surgical procedure.

* The amount of fluid gathered in the chest or abdomen.

* A victim's age, physical health and previous health issues.

* Type of mesothelioma cancer.

* Whether a cancer is diagnosed as reoccurring or not.

Often, cancer may spread through the lymph system, blood stream or other bodily tissues.

Treatments for malignant mesothelioma can range from surgery to therapy, including chemotherapy and biological therapy to clinical trials, although the outcome is based on the progression of the cancer and most often, individuals are not aware of their condition until it reaches an advanced and, usually, an untreatable stage.

Asbestos Exposure and What to Do

Asbestos is a mineral fiber that was used heavily in a range of building materials from vinyl flooring to insulation. It was prized for its inexpensive production costs and fire-retardant ability making it ideal among construction companies. Unfortunately, the inhalation of high levels of asbestos dust and fibers contributed to the development of mesothelioma cancer.

Unfortunately, this discovery came far too late, as millions of Americans working in the industry were exposed and millions more continue to remain at risk for exposure as asbestos still exists in homes, schools, apartment complexes and dozens of other types of buildings across the country. Individuals who believe they may have been exposed to asbestos particles and fibers should seek medical attention as soon as possible. If mesothelioma is the outcome it is advisable for a patient to receive consultation from an experienced mesothelioma attorney, as the potential for a mesothelioma lawsuit may exist with the opportunity for monetary compensation.

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Texas Mesothelioma Lawyer: Gets the Settlement for You

A Texas Mesothelioma Lawyer can be your life saver! When you are struck by this disease then you need as much help as you can find and the right attorney can get you financial help. For years large manufactures of asbestos products have known about the dangers of asbestos to the human being. Most companies have known that exposure to asbestos causes death and have known for close to 60 years, but never told anyone. Thats why you need experienced Texas mesothelioma lawyers to get you compensation for this terrible thing they did.

A Texas mesothelioma lawyer is who you need to contact when you need compensation for this terrible disease that has struck you. If you have mesothelioma, it is because you were exposed to asbestos and now you need all the help you can get, and an experienced attorney can get you the help you need. For a long time large manufactures of products made with asbestos knew about the extreme danger when handling the material. Most companies have known that exposure to asbestos causes death and have known for close to 60 years, but never told anyone. That is why you need an experienced Texas mesothelioma lawyer, who will get you the right kind of compensation.

Most people did not know that asbestos causes serious illness, and were never informed when they went to work in factories that either produced or installed asbestos products. The sad thing, is that the companies did know and did not say anything. The makers of asbestos products did know of the danger of asbestos but said nothing. If you want the right kind of mesothelioma settlement then you need someone who specializes in Mesothelioma, An attorney that knows your legal rights and the court systems in Texas, the state you live in.

When you need the right mesothelioma settlement then you have to have a successful mesothelioma attorney. Do you have a right to mesothelioma compensation? Studies demonstrate that the only cause of mesothelimoa is the exposure to asbestos fibers. This exposure has made you ill and put you at risk of having cancer and other serious diseases. Dont ignore the cause! You need to get the right Texas mesothelioma lawyer. This kind of lawyer has knowledge for this kind of case.

You can also get the right mesothelioma settlement. Do you really want others to suffer as you do? You can do this by getting a specialized Texas mesothelioma lawyer. after all if manufacturers could continue keeping it a secret they would! Get the money you need for those medical bills!

You can help information campaigns regarding this terrible illness and get the compensation you need at the same time. You deserve the right mesothelioma settlement. You need someone working for you, someone who will work your mesothelioma case the way it needs to be worked. You should also promote mesothelioma awareness.

You need to promote mesothelioma awareness and get the financial security to cover the medical costs of the disease. Big industry needs to know that we will not sit by and let this happen to humanity! We need to fight it! This type of situation needs to be fought! Thank God, asbestos is not used in the United States any longer, but it is in other countries, and we should set an example for the rest of the world. We need to send a message that says we will not accept health risks in the work place. Get the mesothelioma settlement you deserve and need by having your mesathelioma case handled the right way! You need the mesothelioma settlement for you and yor families security. Mesothelioma and asbestos are extremely harmful that you should let the world know about its dangers.

If you or a spouse has been affected by Mesothelioma or have been exposed to asbestos, you need to know your medical and legal options. Taking care of yourself is the #1 priority when you've been exposed to cancer causing agents. Locating a Texas Mesothelioma Lawyer who can represent you and your family is an important decision. A Texas mesothelioma lawyers can provide you with information about your options, please visit http://www.mesothelioma-center-inc.com.

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Monday, January 12, 2009

Beaumont Mesothelioma Lawyers: Financial Settlement

Experienced Beaumont mesothelioma lawyers can help you cover the financial end of your mesothelioma case. This kind of illness will eventually cause a persons death. It is a cancer that will most likely end your days. So, this is serious stuff, and because it is so serious you need to contact the right Beaumont mesothelioma lawyers.

People who are exposed to asbestos need Beaumont mesothelioma lawyers. This kind of illness will eventually cause a persons death. This is a terrible disease and you should seek the compensation that you deserve. So, this is serious stuff, and because it is so serious you need to contact the right Beaumont mesothelioma lawyers.

Mesothelioma is caused by being exposed to asbestos, and usually asbestos particles that were in the air, in companies that produced asbestos products. The type of companies that used asbestos were, asbestos factories for the shipping industry, asbestos mines, or construction material manufacturers. Most of these companies knew how dangerous asbestos was but continued its production, and that's why its so important that you find a good Tx mesothelioma attorneys.

You may have a right to a nice settlement from a mesothelioma lawsuit, but your attorney will need to address several issues, such as whether you smoked, and other influencing factors. Medical studies show that smokers are more likely to acquire mesothelioma, which is one more reason you should get good Beaumont mesothelioma attorneys.

The attorney you choose will make about 40% of your claim and he will treat you very nicely. Remember the companies want you to get as little as possible. Mesothelioma cases, from the attorneys perspective are great cases, they are high profile, easy to win for the right TX Mesothelioma attorneys, and they promote mesothelioma awareness. Very successful Texas mesothelioma attorneys will know about how much they can get.

If you want to get the best claim you can, then you will need to select your lawyer with care and you will need to ask a few pertinent questions. You will need to look for a few different Beaumont mesothelioma attorneys, which you can do by looking online, in the yellow pages or asking your local bar association. Next you will want to pay a couple of your choices a visit.

Think about it, he will make close to 40% from your claim, so you should be treated extremely nice. Remember he makes close to forty percent of your claim, so expect to be treated nicely. The right Tx mesothelioma attorneys understand how to win a case and promote mesothelioma awareness at the same time. Most successful Texas mesothelioma attorneys will give you an adequate estimate. At the start, you will need to visit a number of attorneys. But soon enough, you will have a better understanding of will definitely find a good attorney out of the hundreds Beaumont mesothelioma attorneys. There are good attorneys out there and what's left for you to do is make an informed and wise choice.

If you or a loved one has been affected by Mesothelioma or have been exposed to asbestos, you need to know your medical and legal options. Taking care of yourself is the #1 priority when you've been exposed to cancer causing materials. Finding a Beaumont Mesothelioma Lawyers who can represent you and your family is an important decision. Beaumont Mesothelioma Lawyers can provide you with information about your options, please visit http://www.mesothelioma-center-inc.com.

Treatment Options for Pleural Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a deadly cancer that is directly attributed to asbestos exposure. There are three forms of mesothelioma. These forms are pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma and pericardial mesothelioma. This devastating cancer attacks the mesothelium, or the protective lining of the lungs, abdominal cavity, and heart respectively.

Of the three forms of mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma is the most common. When asbestos is manufactured, mined or disturbed asbestos fibers are released into the air. Those working with or around asbestos inhale and ingest these fine particles. Over an extended period of time, mesothelioma can take 20 to 60 years to manifest, these asbestos particles can cause normal pleura in the lining of the chest to become abnormal, causing pleural mesothelioma.

Some of the most common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are persistent cough, shortness of breath, bloody sputum, weight loss, fever, swelling of the face and neck, raspy voice and trouble swallowing. Due to the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma mimicking symptoms of other conditions it may go undiagnosed when the need to start mesothelioma treatment immediately is vital.

After a definitive diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma has been established there are several mesothelioma treatment options that can be undertaken. The type of mesothelioma treatment will depend on several key components. These factors are the extent of the disease, the patient's history and age, and the location of the tumor.

The most common forms of mesothelioma treatment, for those with pleural mesothelioma, are a pneumonectomy, radiation, chemotherapy, and palliative therapies. One form of mesothelioma treatment is a pneumonectomy, or the removal of the cancerous lung. Depending on the spread of the disease, parts of diaphragm may be removed as well. A pleurectomy may also be used to treat pleural mesothelioma by removing parts of the chest and surrounding tissue. The ability for these procedures to be performed are dependent on the patient's overall health, spread of the disease, and the amount of asbestos exposure.

Radiation treatment is another form of mesothelioma treatment for those suffering from pleural mesothelioma. Radiation therapy works by placing a radioactive source in the area of disease. The use of radiation has the benefit of destroying cancerous tissue while not exposing healthy cells. This form of mesothelioma treatment can be performed in conjunction with surgery or alone if the individual is to ill for surgery.

Chemotherapy is another common form of mesothelioma treatment for those with pleural mesothelioma. This high toxicity drug is usually administered by injection or in pill form. Some side affects from chemotherapy include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue and weight loss. This form of mesothelioma treatment is not targeted to a particular area like radiation therapy. Therefore, the drugs used have to make their way through the body to the cancerous area or areas. Unfortunately, this has the disadvantage of exposing healthy tissue to the toxicity of the chemotherapy drugs.

Palliative therapies are also used as a form of mesothelioma treatment for those with pleural mesothelioma. This involves removing excess fluid by needle and suction from the affected areas. Drugs are also used in order to keep fluid accumulation under control.

As additional research is performed on pleural mesothelioma more treatment options may become available. Keeping informed of new mesothelioma treatments is paramount if diagnosed with this devastating disease.

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Mesothelioma is Deadly Cancer

Mesothelioma is a deadly cancer that is caused by asbestos exposure and there are no findings to suggest that this cancer is caused by other sources. Many of the victims who are diagnosed with Mesothelioma were workers who were not forewarned of the dangers of working with asbestos. People who are diagnosed with Mesothelioma should contact a Rhode Island Mesothelioma lawyer to help them with a Mesothelioma lawsuit that can get compensation for them to help with the medical and financial bills that are a result of the diagnosis.

Mesothelioma is caused by a person inhaling or swallowing asbestos fibers that then become lodged in the body. These fibers are virtually indestructible and the body's immune system can't break them down or get rid of them. Mesothelioma is a progressive disease and many people only live for one or two years after diagnosis. Mesothelioma cancer compromises the immune system as well as the area in which the cancer has set in.

In most cases, Mesothelioma is in the membrane that surrounds the lungs, called the pleura. However, Mesothelioma can also attack the lining of the heart or the abdomen. While this type of cancer is rare, approximately 3,000 new cases are reported each year in the United States.

Any level of exposure to asbestos can cause Mesothelioma, even infrequent exposure. Para-occupational exposure, which is secondary exposure, can also leave a risk for Mesothelioma to the families of workers who work with asbestos materials. The asbestos fibers easily cling to hair, clothing, shoes and skin and are brought home, dislodged and therefore create exposure in the home.

Most cases of Mesothelioma can be traced back to asbestos exposure directly in the work place. Approximatley 20 years ago, the products that contained asbestos and asbestos materials that were used in construction and manufacturing were in high demand and used frequently, even though it was known that asbestos exposure could lead to progressive diseases such as Mesothelioma.

Throughout the Second World War, naval ship yards were fabricating many ships for the war, using a lot of asbestos in the manufacturing process. The product was used for construction in buildings and for the manufacturing of automobiles as well. Until just recently, products and processes that use asbestos were unregulated, although the risk factors were known and safety precautions could be taken. Many companies still continued to utilize asbestos in their practices.

Many of the companies who used asbestos provided very little education or protection from asbestos exposure for their workers, leaving them now on the hook for compensating the victims of this dreadful and deadly cancer.

If you or someone you love has contracted Mesothelioma, it is important to contact a Rhode Island Mesothelioma attorney to find out if you have a case justifiable for a Mesothelioma lawsuit. The biggest problem with the onset of Mesothelioma symptoms and diagnosis and the exposure to asbestos is the long period of time, approximately 20 years, between the two. This makes it difficult to diagnose the cancer as well as find the company responsible for the exposure for your Rhode Island Mesothelioma lawyer.

The symptoms of Mesothelioma include fluid in the chest, chest pains, difficulty breathing, and coughing. Because of the nature of these symptoms and the fact that they are so similar to other medical problems, they are easily mistaken for other conditions, which can delay the diagnosis of Mesothelioma cancer. For most people, the diagnosis comes much too late - conventional treatments for cancer such as radiation and chemotherapy prove to have little or no effect on the progression of Mesothelioma cancer.

The majority of victims of Mesothelioma can blame companies and bosses for whom they worked for their asbestos exposure, and many of the companies knew the dangers of working with asbestos, and still failed to take any safety measures or precautions to reduce the exposure to this toxic material for their workers. Mesothelioma is a devastating cancer to people who have it and to their families, physically, emotionally and certainly financially.

A Rhode Island Mesothelioma lawyer can help you with a Mesothelioma lawsuit for yourself or a loved one. A qualified Mesothelioma lawyer can track down those responsible for your exposure and illness and can fight with a Mesothelioma lawsuit to gain financial compensation. While the compensation is no replacement for a life, it can certainly help cover lost wages, funeral expenses, medical costs and pain and suffering that are caused by Mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Law is Changing

Finding out that you have mesothelioma means that you should call your mesothelioma attorney in New York. Because of the cost of treating your mesothelioma symptoms, and to recover some of those costs, you should quickly contact the top mesothelioma lawyer in New York to help settle your case. Mesothelioma law is changing, and you need your attorney to be as up to date as possible to provide you with the best opportunity to get a mesothelioma settlement.

Mesothelioma is a cancer that is caused by breathing in asbestos fibers. There are also some other fibers that can produce mesothelioma, as well, but asbestos is the primary cause. These fibers enter into the body - either through the lungs, or by swallowing sputum, and then are passed into the epithelial layer that surrounds the various organs. This layer is called the mesothelium and it is made up of just a single layer of cells. The asbestos fibers pass through the stomach and lungs to this layer and then can become cancerous after many years.

It was known for many years that asbestos could cause cancer, but only recently did more research (1970's) prove it and that brought about governmental intervention on industries that widely used it. Many industries used a lot of asbestos in their products, and this would especially include the auto industry, the shipyards, manufacturing and the railroad industries.

One problem here, though, was that the mesothelioma typically took from 30 to 50 years to surface. This means that if you were exposed to asbestos that long ago, then you might begin to have problems from it now and be starting to show mesothelioma symptoms.

Asbestos remains around you in many places. In many cases, though, it is not harmful if it is left undisturbed. In fact, it is not even recommended that you test it yourself, but get an asbestos professional to do the testing for you. If asbestos is exposed where you live - in an apartment building, or on pipes, etc., then you should also immediately contact a professional and have it checked and sealed - if necessary. You may also want to take pictures to present later if any evidence might be needed.

Your top mesothelioma attorney in New York can help you to discover if your mesothelioma has a cause from asbestos. He or she is very familiar with the products and industries that regularly used asbestos. When a lawsuit is filed with your top mesothelioma attorney in New York, it will be necessary to show a connection proving that you were actually exposed to it.

A mesothelioma diagnosis, unfortunately, means that you will have to come up with a lot of money to cover your medical expenses. The truth is that the lifetime of someone with mesothelioma is about a year - unless the doctors prescribe a very aggressive attack on it with chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Regardless, in most situations you will not be able to afford the treatments needed.

A mesothelioma lawsuit, guided by your mesothelioma attorney in New York, will be needed to help you to recover some of your expenses because of it. If you had a loved one that has already passed away due to mesothelioma, then you also may be able to recover some of your expenses, as well. Your top mesothelioma attorney in New York will be glad to provide you with a consultation and then help you with a mesothelioma settlement to recover expenses of those who helped financially.

Since asbestos fibers can stay in the human body for a long time before any mesothelioma symptoms may be experienced, it is important that you have a physical as soon as possible if you start to experience problems that may be related. If there should be a mesothelioma diagnosis, then you should contact your mesothelioma attorney quickly to see what legal options are available to you.

Mesothelioma is not always caused by asbestos, but most of it is - about 80% and possibly more. It also seems to be that the smaller the fibers are, the greater the likelihood of mesothelioma to develop. Receiving a mesothelioma settlement in time to help recover some of your medical expenses, means that you need to talk to your top mesothelioma attorney in New York quickly. Current estimates are that the medical expenses typically run between $400,000 and $800,000 for the costs of medicine, oxygen, and more. Talk to your mesothelioma attorney today to see what can be done to help you.

Friday, January 9, 2009

What To Look For In A California Mesothelioma Lawyer

A Mesothelioma diagnosis is never something that you want to get. If you know anything about Mesothelioma at all, you know that it is a highly deadly form of lung cancer, mostly caused by Asbestos. If you know anything about Asbestos, you should know that not only is it deadly, but it is also illegal. What this means for you is that a Mesothelioma diagnosis is almost never no one's fault.

It is certainly not your own fault, and a Mesothelioma lawyer will tell you that a Mesothelioma lawsuit and a Mesothelioma are very easy to win and very easy to accomplish. However, if you are looking for a Mesothelioma lawyer, you should be sure that you are looking at the right kind of lawyer. There are several things that you want to look for as you search for the right lawyer for Mesothelioma in California.

When you are looking for a Mesothelioma lawyer in California, they can provide you with many different services and are very knowledgeable about Mesothelioma in general and its causes as well as its costs.

The first thing that you have to find in a Mesothelioma lawyer in California is the idea that they know what they are talking about when it comes to Mesothelioma. This is something that a lot of lawyers overlook. The issue of Mesothelioma is one that is very tricky, because a lot of the cases of Mesothelioma don't show up with Mesothelioma symptoms for many many years. This means that once you develop Mesothelioma symptoms it is very likely that whoever caused it is no longer living, or has disappeared.

Many people are getting Mesothelioma because of jobs they worked on 50 or more years ago, which means that the person responsible is often very hard to track. A Mesothelioma lawyer knows ways to find people years after the fact. You should ask the prospective lawyer some questions about Mesothelioma and see if they can answer them before you choose your Mesothelioma lawyer.

Another thing that you want to think about as you approach a Mesothelioma lawsuit is looking for a firm that is going to take care of your case so that you don't have to do a lot for it. Whether you are the one with Mesothelioma or if it is a family member, you don't want to spend this time in court. You want to work on getting better, or you want to nurse a family member, or you want to be with other members of your family and grieve for the person you have lost.

The bottom line is that you don't want to spend countless hours dealing with the Mesothelioma lawsuit and working for the Mesothelioma settlement. This means that the Mesothelioma lawyer that you pick has to be a Mesothelioma attorney who can handle most of the work on their own, without you.

When you are dealing with Mesothelioma ,you are dealing with something that has a cause. This is a disease that is caused by an error somewhere. For you, this means that there is someone to blame, and somebody is at fault for your suffering. You shouldn't have to go through it alone ,and you shouldn't have to pay for it out of your pocket, when it is not your fault.

This is what the Mesothelioma attorneys in California are here for. They can help you get through this, and they can help you get the money that you need and deserve. Remember that since Mesothelioma affects not only the workers, but even the spouses that washed the asbestos filled clothing, it means that Mesothelioma lawsuits are not only for the ones who are directly affected by the cancer. If you have someone in your family that was diagnosed with Mesothelioma, you are perhaps still entitled to a Mesothelioma lawsuit. This is important to know, because you shouldn't have to worry about medical bills or anything else.

Thursday, January 8, 2009

If You are Diagnosed With Mesothelioma

Have you been diagnosed with Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma can be a very scary thing, because in fact many of the patients with Mesothelioma end up dying within a year. If you have gotten a Mesothelioma diagnosis for yourself or for a loved one, you should rest assured that there is a way to get compensation for the pain you are going through. It is very easy to get a Mesothelioma attorney through the Johnson Law Group in Louisiana, and you will be able to find a Mesothelioma lawyer that understands what you are going through.

Your Mesothelioma diagnosis might mean the end of many things that you love to do, but there is a way that your family and you can be, in some small way, put at ease by a Mesothelioma settlement that will benefit you and benefit your family. In many of the Mesothelioma lawsuit cases in Louisiana, there are good results, and with Johnson Law Group you can be sure that you have these as well.

Understanding Mesothelioma

If you have had a Mesothelioma diagnosis, you probably know that most of the Mesothelioma is caused by Asbestos. Asbestos is a highly dangerous chemical that was used for many years in building materials and also in fireproofing of buildings. Even after the chemical was found to be very hazardous to a person's health, it was pulled very slowly from some places. There are many companies and businesses that continued to use the Asbestos long after it was deemed unsafe, and even illegal.

This is why there are so many Mesothelioma cases and why there are so many Mesothelioma lawyers and lawsuits. The fact is that even though Mesothelioma is a terrible form of Cancer, there are people to blame. Even if your Mesothelioma symptoms occurred years after you worked for a certain company ,chances are very good that somewhere in this company or somewhere along the line, someone knew that they shouldn't be using asbestos and someone knew that it was going to hurt people.

In order to get a Mesothelioma lawsuit properly started with Johnson Law Group in Louisiana, you have to know what you are doing. This is when Johnson Law Group can come in very handy for you , because they will take all of the pressures and worries of the Mesothelioma lawsuit out of your hands. You have more important things to think about, dealing with your Mesothelioma symptoms and trying to take care of your family. The good news is that Johnson Law Group can get you compensation ,and they can get your family some comfort.

Because Mesothelioma comes mostly from Asbestos, it isn't just the people who worked with these chemicals that are being hurt. Many times in Mesothelioma cases in Louisiana, it is families that are affected. The spouses who washed the Asbestos filled clothing are found to have Mesothelioma. One of the biggest groups of people suffering from Mesothelioma are rescue workers from 9/11, and their families as well. This means that there are man people who need help with Mesothelioma lawsuits in Louisiana, and Johnson Law Group can give them the help that they need to get their lives back on track.

If you have lost someone due to Mesothelioma, you should know that a Mesothelioma is a good possibility for you as well. With Johnson Law Group, you can get compensation to help with final arrangements for your loved one, and to help you to put the pieces of your life back together once they are gone. The Mesothelioma lawyers are going to be able to help you do this, and they are going to be able to make sure that your children and your families are safe from the Mesothelioma symptoms as well.

The bottom line with Mesothelioma lawsuits in Louisiana is that there is always someone, somewhere, who knew something was wrong. This means that there is always going to be someone at fault that you can point to with a Mesothelioma lawsuit. You need to know that if you have been a victim of Mesothelioma, there is help out there waiting for you.

If you have lost someone due to this terrible condition, there are also ways that you can get some money. Money isn't going to make the Mesothelioma go away, but it will help with doctors bills and arrangements that need to be made. Someone is at fault, and you are not to blame. With Johnson Law Group and their associates in Louisiana, you are going to be able to find help where you need it ,and get the answers that you need.

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Talk To Your Mesothelioma Attorney About Your Settlement Options

Mesothelioma is certainly nothing that anyone could possibly want. When the mesothelioma symptoms start - it immediately becomes a serious matter. Something needs to be done immediately - and it is going to cost a bundle. It is time for you to talk to your top mesothelioma lawyer in New York to see about getting a mesothelioma settlement.

In order to get an accurate mesothelioma diagnosis, there will need to be several tests made. These generally involve scanning with X-ray, CT scans, or possibly a MRI. After mesothelioma is named as a possibility, the doctor will need to do a biopsy in order to be sure whether or not it is actually mesothelioma. From there, the doctor will need to determine the stage of the cancer - to know if and how far it may have spread inside the chest or abdominal cavity.

When someone receives a mesothelioma diagnosis, it is just as important that you talk to your mesothelioma attorney as it is to your doctor. The primary reason is that the treatment of mesothelioma is costly, and someone else is most likely responsible for your having been exposed to asbestos. Your attorney may be able to help you pinpoint the time and place that you were exposed to asbestos - it is possible that you may not even be aware that you were being exposed to so deadly a substance.

It has been known for many years that asbestos is harmful to humans. This fact was largely disregarded by the various industries that used it until the mid-70's. This would include the shipping industry, the automotive, the manufacturing, and the railroad industries.

It is estimated that there has been about 5,000 different products that used asbestos through the years. One good thing is that not everyone who has been exposed to asbestos will get mesothelioma. It is this carelessness of the industry that has resulted in many more people getting mesothelioma than was necessary. Many states have also given permission for the lawsuits to take place.

Although mesothelioma is still rather rare - affecting only about 1 in a million people, it was general negligence on the part of the industry that brought it about. This means that it may be possible in your case to start a mesothelioma lawsuit that would enable you to recover some of the medical expenses and payment for other related things that go along with it. In general, your mesothelioma attorney can have a consultation with you to establish how and when you may have come in contact with asbestos, or other similar fiber.

Mesothelioma is not always from asbestos, but it is in about 85% of the cases. Before mesothelioma symptoms begin to reveal themselves, as many as 30 to 50 years could have passed. This means that most people with mesothelioma symptoms would be in their later years and more vulnerable to the effects and rapid spread of the disease. If discovered early enough, the life may be extended for a couple more years. Normally, though, once the mesothelioma symptoms appear and there is a diagnosis, the individual has less than one year to live. So far, there is no known cure.

Your top mesothelioma lawyer in New York is ready to look at your case and see if there is the possibility of negligence on the part of an employer, building owner, or someone else. It may be possible to recover some of your losses if that can be proven in a court of law. A mesothelioma lawsuit will be necessary for you to get a mesothelioma settlement from the case.

It is very important for you to contact the top mesothelioma lawyer in New York because of the possible complexity of the case. The laws about mesothelioma issues are changing and you want your attorney to be ready - by having proven experience with other mesothelioma cases. Proven victories in the past is a good evidence that your mesothelioma attorney is willing to fight hard to win your case for you.

Your top mesothelioma lawyer in New York may also be helpful in relating to you some of the latest information about medical treatments that are available as well. He or she may be able to help direct you to doctors and services (or information) that will be valuable to you as you begin to fight your mesothelioma symptoms with various treatments, and, hopefully, will have a mesothelioma settlement to help you pay for the expenses.

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

The Second Most Common Form of Mesothelioma: Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a deadly disease which in most cases is preventable. It is precisely this preventability that has raised the visibility of this disease. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is a good idea to acquire the assistance of a mesothelioma lawyer or attorney to discuss the feasibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit as you may be eligible to receive a mesothelioma settlement. Also, if someone you know has mesothelioma or has died of the disease, talk with them or their family and recommend that they follow-up with a mesothelioma lawyer.

Within the family of asbestos related diseases called mesothelioma, there is a particular form of cancer which attacks the abdominal lining known as peritoneal mesothelioma. The cause of peritoneal mesothelioma has been identified as exposure to asbestos and asbestos products. Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the lining of the abdomen called the peritoneal and because of this, when an individual is diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, they may also have medical issues related to other organs surrounding the abdomen as well.

Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the body's ability to protect the organs in this region by compromising the ability to keep the organs lubricated which enables them shift around and function appropriately. If you research peritoneal mesothelioma, you will discover that it can also be described as diffuse peritoneal mesothelioma. When you hear this term it simply means that the cancer has left the peritoneal lining of the abdomen and has affected other organs nearby. Peritoneal mesothelioma is credited to be the cause of almost ten percent of all mesothelioma cases and, because of this, it ranks second as the most common form of asbestos related mesothelioma.

The most common form is called pleural mesothelioma.
The greatest problem with any form of mesothelioma is that it is infamous for having a long incubation or latency. During this period it is in the body growing unbeknownst to the individual and not affecting health and functioning.

More often than not, peritoneal mesothelioma cells lie dormant for years before they become active and create obvious symptoms. When symptoms do appear it regrettably indicates that the disease has advanced to a late stage. In most cases the delay in the appearance of symptoms and subsequent diagnosis of the disease adversely affects the prospects for the individual.

One reason for the late diagnosis of peritoneal mesothelioma has been given to the fact that the first or earliest symptoms of the disease are so similar to other less traumatic diseases and ailments that an individual spends a great deal of time being treated for the wrong ailment. It is a general approach for all medical situations to rule out the less virulent causes of an illness before jumping to the conclusion that a more serious situation is present.

So a physician most likely will take the approach to rule out more common reasons for symptoms and only when these don't pan out will he begin considering more serious roots for the illness. When this stage of diagnosing is reached, a diagnosis of peritoneal mesothelioma will be considered.

Mesothelioma is rare, even though it may not feel that way if you or a loved one has been stricken by it. It is exactly this rareness that makes it a diagnosis made by ruling our more common potential illnesses. If the physician takes a comprehensive medical history and discovers an individual has worked in an occupation where they have likely been around or exposed to asbestos or related products, he will know to investigate meosthelioma as a potential cause of the illness. If an individual is aware that they have worked around asbestos, it is a good idea to bring this information up with a physician as soon as there is an illness where the cause is not known.

It is well known that all cancers, as well as other illnesses, present with a variety of symptoms that may be peculiar to that disease and/or to many other diseases. Generally speaking, though someone suffering from peritoneal mesothelioma will complain of abdominal pain, they will become frail or weak, have a loss in weight, be nauseated and vomit, have a loss of appetite, exhibit swelling of the abdomen and may have an obstruction in the bowel.

Because peritoneal mesothelioma spreads to adjoining organs, symptoms other than abdominal may be exhibited such as difficulty breathing and extreme pain.
Contact a mesothelioma attorney if you have mesothelioma.

Sunday, January 4, 2009

Contacting A Mesothelioma Lawyer

Many people who are diagnosed with Mesothelioma have no idea what it is and have never heard of it before. Mesothelioma is cancer that is caused by asbestos exposure and to date, there are no other findings that suggest this cancer to be caused by any other source. Most of the victims of Mesothelioma were workers who worked with asbestos who were not warned of the dangers of working with this toxic product.

People who are diagnosed with Mesothelioma should contact a Rhode Island Mesothelioma lawyer to help them with a Mesothelioma lawsuit that can get compensation for them to help with the medical and financial bills that are a result of the diagnosis.

The cause of Mesothelioma is the inhalation or swallowing of asbestos fibers that become lodged in the body. These asbestos fibers are indestructible and the body's immune system can not get rid of them or break them down. Mesothelioma is a progressive cancer that takes the lives of people who are diagnosed with in within one to two years. Mesothelioma attacks the immune system as well as the area in which the cancer has set in.

Most cases of Mesothelioma is in the pleura, the lining that surrounds the lungs, however Mesothelioma can also attack the lining of the heart or abdominal cavity. While Mesothelioma is relatively rare, 3,000 new cases are reported each year in the US.

Mesothelioma can be caused by any level of asbestos exposure, even infrequent exposure or para-occupational exposure. Para-occupational exposure is secondary exposure and is usually found in the families of people who worked with asbestos materials. The fibers easily cling to hair, skin, clothing and shoes and can become dislodged in the home, creating secondary exposure.

The vast majority of Mesothelioma cancer cases can be traced back to exposure to asbestos in the work place. 20 years ago, products that contained asbestos and asbestos materials were in high demand and used frequently in construction and manufacturing. At that time it was known that asbestos exposure could lead to progressive health disorders such as Mesothelioma.

In World War II, asbestos was used quite frequently in the manufacturing of ships for the war effort in naval ship yards throughout the country. Asbestos was used for building construction and the manufacturing of automobiles as well during this time. Until recently, asbestos products and processes that utilize asbestos were unregulated, although the high risk factors associated with asbestos exposure were known and few safety precautions were offered by companies, and these companies continued to freely use the product.

Most of the companies that used asbestos products or processes failed to provide safety precautions or education for their workers regarding the high risk of working with the product. Their ignorance and complacency however has left them on the hook for financial compensation for workers with Mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases.

If you or someone you love has contracted Mesothelioma cancer, your best bet is to contact a Rhode Island Mesothelioma lawyer to find out if you have a Mesothelioma lawsuit case to build. The chief problem with Mesothelioma lawsuits is the length of time between exposure to asbestos and diagnosis of Mesothelioma - which is usually approximately 20 years. This makes it quite difficult for Rhode Island Mesothelioma to find the company responsible for your exposure as well as for doctors to properly diagnose the disease.

Mesothelioma symptoms include:
- fluid in the chest,
- chest pains,
- difficulty breathing, and
- coughing.

The nature of Mesothelioma symptoms is easily mistaken for other conditions because they are so similar to other maladies, which in turn often delays the diagnosis of Mesothelioma cancer. Conventional cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy have little to no effect on Mesothelioma cancer's progression.

Most Mesothelioma victims can help to pinpoint the company or company's responsible for their asbestos exposure. Most of the companies knew the dangers of asbestos exposure and failed to take precautions or measures to protect their workers. Mesothelioma is devastating to people and families emotionally, physically and financially.

A Rhode Island Mesothelioma attorney can help you file a Mesothelioma lawsuit for yourself or a loved one against the company responsible for the exposure. A good Mesothelioma lawyer can easily track down the responsible party and fight to gain financial compensation. While finances are no replacement for a life lost to Mesothelioma, it can help with the financial burden the disease brings with it including funeral expenses, lost wages, medical costs and pain and suffering.

Saturday, January 3, 2009

Scientists Conduct Clincial Trials of Peritoneal Mesothelioma Treatment

Researchers recently published the results of a study in the Journal of Clinical Oncology detailing a potentially new treatment for patients of abdominal mesothelioma that will likely improve the condition for patients.

The study found that when patients suffering from abdominal mesothelioma were given a combination of two drugs, Alimta (pemetrexed) and Gemzar (gemcitabine), their condition improved. The following are the results of the study:

* Response rate among patients was 15 percent.

* The control rate of the disease for patients while on the medication was 50 percent.

* The median time to disease progression was 10.4 months.

* The median survival time was 26.8 months.

* The mesothelioma study involved 20 patients suffering from the condition.

In addition to the two drugs, the patients received dexamethasone, folic acid and vitamin B12. The study was conducted by researchers involved in a multi-center U.S. trial. Researchers expect to continue studying the drugs?ffects on abdominal mesothelioma patients to determine if the treatment can be improved.

What is Abdominal Mesothelioma?

Abdominal mesothelioma is an extremely rare form of mesothelioma cancer. Commonly described as peritoneal mesothelioma, the cancer affects the abdominal lining, which is also known as the peritoneum. Within the abdominal cavity is the serous membrane, which is also known as the parietal peritoneum, and this membrane continues on to the visceral peritoneum that lines the organs. With abdominal mesothelioma, the visceral and parietal peritoneum linings are affected with the development of cancerous cells.

Most often, abdominal cancer occurs when an individual first develops pleural mesothelioma, which is when the lining of the lung develops cancerous cells after inhalation of asbestos. Pleural mesothelioma can then spread to the peritoneal cavity and cause peritoneal mesothelioma, which accounts for less than one-third of all mesothelioma diagnoses.

How is Peritoneal Mesothelioma Contracted?

Abdominal, or peritoneal, mesothelioma is caused through the inhalation of asbestos fibers or asbestos dust. Asbestos is a material that is derived from vermiculite, a mineral that was mined heavily in the United States and around the world in the 20th century. Asbestos was most commonly used as an insulation within the construction industry because it was flame resistant and was developed at inexpensive prices.

An array of mild to severe mesothelioma symptoms exist, including:

* shortness of breath.

* inability to breath.

* fatigue.

* wheezing or severe cough.

However, many of these symptoms are generalized to overall cases of mesothelioma. Specific symptoms exist for those diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma. These symptoms are as follows:

* weight loss.

* abdominal swelling, which can be caused by ascites or the buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

* bowel obstruction.

* fever.

* anemia.

* blood clotting.

* trouble swallowing.

* swelling of neck and face.

Abdominal Mesothelioma Treatment

Abdominal mesothelioma treatments commonly consist of surgical procedures to remove the infected cancerous areas. Often, the main surgery involved with peritoneal mesothelioma is known as cytoreductive surgery. While many individuals will receive specific treatments based on their case, the surgery usually is coupled with a chemotherapy treatment -- this treatment is often called the perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy and has been shown to slightly improve the median survival rate.

Obtaining Peritoneal Mesothelioma Legal Help

Individuals who have been diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma or any similar form of mesothelioma cancer are advised to locate an experienced mesothelioma attorney. Individuals who have been exposed to mesothelioma should contact a medical professional immediately because of the dangers that exist to even limited exposure to asbestos. These individuals may be able to receive monetary compensation for the extremely costly medical bills associated with abdominal mesothelioma.

It is especially important for an individual to seek legal counsel for their mesothelioma lawsuit if they were an employee within the metal, mining, maritime, construction and welding industries.

Thursday, January 1, 2009

New Drug Study for Abdominal Mesothelioma

Researchers recently published the results of a study in the Journal of Clinical Oncology detailing a potentially new treatment for patients of abdominal mesothelioma that will likely improve the condition for patients.

The study found that when patients suffering from abdominal mesothelioma were given a combination of two drugs, Alimta (pemetrexed) and Gemzar (gemcitabine), their condition improved. The following are the results of the study:

* Response rate among patients was 15 percent.

* The control rate of the disease for patients while on the medication was 50 percent.

* The median time to disease progression was 10.4 months.

* The median survival time was 26.8 months.

* The mesothelioma study involved 20 patients suffering from the condition.

Each patient also received various vitamins including folic acid, vitamin B12 and dexamethasone. The study was conducted by researchers involved in a multi-center U.S. trial. Researchers expect to continue studying the drug's effects on abdominal mesothelioma patients to determine if the treatment can be improved.

What is Abdominal Mesothelioma?

Abdominal mesothelioma is an extremely rare form of mesothelioma cancer. Commonly described as peritoneal mesothelioma, the cancer affects the abdominal lining, which is also known as the peritoneum. Within the abdominal cavity is the serous membrane, which is also known as the parietal peritoneum, and this membrane continues on to the visceral peritoneum that lines the organs. With abdominal mesothelioma, the visceral and parietal peritoneum linings are affected with the development of cancerous cells.

Most often, abdominal cancer occurs when an individual first develops pleural mesothelioma, which is when the lining of the lung develops cancerous cells after inhalation of asbestos. Pleural mesothelioma can then spread to the peritoneal cavity and cause peritoneal mesothelioma, which accounts for less than one-third of all mesothelioma diagnoses.

How is Peritoneal Mesothelioma Contracted?

Abdominal, or peritoneal, mesothelioma is caused through the inhalation of asbestos fibers or asbestos dust. Asbestos is a material that is derived from vermiculite, a mineral that was mined heavily in the United States and around the world in the 20th century. Asbestos was most commonly used as an insulation within the construction industry because it was flame resistant and was developed at inexpensive prices.

There are many common symptoms of mesothelioma, including:

* shortness of breath.

* inability to breath.

* fatigue.

* wheezing or severe cough.

However, many of these symptoms are generalized to overall cases of mesothelioma. Specific symptoms exist for those diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma. These symptoms are as follows:

* weight loss.

* abdominal swelling, which can be caused by ascites or the buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

* bowel obstruction.

* fever.

* anemia.

* blood clotting.

* trouble swallowing.

* swelling of neck and face.

Abdominal Mesothelioma Treatment

Abdominal mesothelioma treatments commonly consist of surgical procedures to remove the infected cancerous areas. Often, the main surgery involved with peritoneal mesothelioma is known as cytoreductive surgery. This surgery is usually accompanied with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy, and together the median survival rate for patients has been shown to increase slightly, although, treatment is dependent on a specific case-by-case basis.

Obtaining Peritoneal Mesothelioma Legal Help

Individuals who have been diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma or any similar form of mesothelioma cancer are advised to locate an experienced mesothelioma attorney. Because mesothelioma is considered a highly preventable disease, individual victims who contract the illness were likely exposed to asbestos fibers or asbestos dust without knowledge of the danger of exposure levels. These individuals may be able to receive monetary compensation for the extremely costly medical bills associated with abdominal mesothelioma.

It is especially important for an individual to seek legal counsel for their mesothelioma lawsuit if they were an employee within the metal, mining, maritime, construction and welding industries.