HARM FROM ASBESTOS EXPOSURE

ASBESTOSIS
“Asbestosis” describes the scarring of lung tissue by asbestos fibers. Such an occurrence may result in the shrinking of the lungs and in a reduction of lung capacity. Symptoms of asbestosis include: shortness of breath, dry cough, rales, crackles heard through a stethoscope, and fatigue. .Like mesothelioma, asbestosis may have a latency period of thirty or more years; however, symptoms of asbestosis may be spotted much sooner depending on the length and degree of the exposure involved.

Mesothelioma Symptoms The first symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include one or more of the following:
	Shortness of breath
	Chest or pleural pain (such as experienced with pleuritis—fluid in the lungs)
	Cough
	Weakness
	Loss of weight or appetite
	Pleural mesothelioma is often accompanied by an accumulation of pleural fluid, which causes significant discomfort and chest pain. This fluid can be removed and analyzed, by a physician, for malignant cells.
	Peritoneal mesothelioma may cause weight loss and depressed appetite as well as severe cramps or diarrhea.

Mesothelioma Diagnosis Mesothelioma is detected and diagnosed through a variety of methods including:
	CAT Scan and/or chest x-ray
	Chest X-ray
	Cytology (which involves the examination of fluid removed from the pleural space)
	Pathology (which involves the examination of tissue removed by surgery)

The most effective way to diagnose mesothelioma is through a biopsy of pleural tissue; the more tissue that is examined, the more accurate the diagnosis. A transbronchial biopsy, which involves a tube inserted into the throat, does not require surgery, but only provides a small tissue sample that may, or may not, yield an accurate result. While less desirable, a more invasive surgical procedure that provides a greater tissue sample will support a more accurate diagnosis.

For more information on Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma
call 1.800.MESOLAW or email

Robert I. Komitor