Epithelioid Mesothelioma
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What Is Epithelioid Mesothelioma?
Epithelioid mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells which line the body’s cavities, including the lungs and abdomen. It is caused by asbestos exposure, usually from occupational sources. Epithelioid mesothelioma is one of the most common types of this cancer, making up approximately 50-70% of all mesothelioma cases. The symptoms of epithelioid mesothelioma include chest pain, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and increased fluid in the chest or abdomen. Symptoms are unlikely to appear soon after the asbestos exposure and typically take several decades to become apparent, a latency period that can make diagnosis difficult. A diagnosis can be achieved through a combination of imaging studies (including x-rays, CT scans, and MRIs) and a biopsy. Treatment can include surgery to remove tumors and chemotherapy or radiation therapy to help shrink tumors. Prognosis depends on how far the disease has progressed when it is detected, but with early diagnosis and treatment, outcomes can be improved. Many patients have a life expectancy of 1.5 to 6 years after diagnosis.
While constant fevers and fluid buildup are two of the most common symptoms associated with epithelioid mesothelioma, a patient’s precise symptoms will vary based on several factors, including their overall health, their age, the cancer’s cell type, and where the tumor specifically develops. Again, many patients only experience noticeably severe symptoms at the latest stages of the disease.
Common symptoms of epithelioid pleural mesothelioma include:
Chest pain
Difficulty breathing
Fluid buildup in the lungs
Coughing
Fever
Sudden weight loss
Common symptoms of epithelioid peritoneal mesothelioma include:
Abdominal pain and swelling
Fever
Loss of appetite
Constipation
Fluid buildup in the abdomen
Sudden weight loss
The symptoms of epithelioid mesothelioma are similar or identical to a range of other diseases, including other cancers and even the flu. This can make getting an accurate diagnosis very difficult, as mesothelioma is rare, and many doctors are not experienced in recognizing its symptoms. This makes emphasizing any known history of asbestos exposure extremely important, as it is one of the key causes of this cancer. You should tell your doctor about any work in professions that may have exposed you to asbestos, even if you are not aware of any confirmed exposure.
If your doctor is reluctant to specifically test you for epithelioid mesothelioma, it is in your best interest to seek out a cancer center or a mesothelioma expert. These doctors can run several basic tests to rule out similar diseases before proceeding with more targeted diagnostic tools, such as chest x-rays and CT scans, that can get you closer to an accurate diagnosis. Then, a biopsy can confirm the diagnosis.
A biopsy involves collecting a sample of cells or tissue from the affected area for microscopic examination under a microscope by pathologists (doctors who specialize in diagnosing diseases). This allows them to determine whether or not cancerous cells are present and if they are consistent with epithelial mesothelioma. In some cases, additional tests such as imaging scans may be needed to confirm the diagnosis before treatment begins.
Diagnosed with Epithelioid Mesothelioma? Talk to a Lawyer.
If you or someone you know was diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma, do not wait to schedule a complimentary consultation. Call (855) 744-1922 or contact us online today.
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