Mesothelioma is a form of cancer found in tissues lining the chest or abdominal cavity.

Diagnosing mesothelioma involves a microscopic comparison on malignant vs. benign cells. Some pathologists specialize in diagnosing mesothelioma, although all pathologists should have the training necessary for this cancer. Early symptoms of mesothelioma in the chest resemble pneumonia: shortness of breath, chest pain, and persistent cough; some pleural mesothelioma patients may have no early symptoms at all, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Mesothelioma in the abdomen can lead to abdominal pain or swelling due to built-up fluid. Peritoneal mesothelioma also may lead to nausea, weight loss, bowel obstruction, anemia, or swelling of the feet.
Mesothelioma treatment depends upon the stage, location, and extent of the cancer, as well as the mesothelioma patients age, condition, and personal wishes. Treatment options and survival rates improve enormously the earlier mesothelioma is diagnosed. Traditionally, the treatments used to battle mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, although two or more approaches may be combined. New mesothelioma treatments are in development, including gene therapy and immunotherapy. As the ways doctors can battle mesothelioma increase, so do the patients chances for survival.
Because such strong links exist between mesothelioma and asbestos exposure, it is possible that the medical costs for diagnosing and treating mesothelioma may be the responsibility of the party responsible for exposing the individual to asbestos. Mesothelioma patients may also be entitled to monetary compensation including lost wages, suffering, and punitive fines. Mesothelioma patients and their families can learn about their legal rights from an attorney specializing in mesothelioma litigation.
If you or a loved one has suffered from mesothelioma, please Contact a Mesothelioma Attorney to learn more information on mesothelioma treatment and your legal rights!