Mesothelioma Staging - Know the Different Staging Systems

Treatment options are often determined by the stage of mesothelioma a patient is in. There are different staging systems currently in use for pleural mesothelioma with each one measuring different variables, peritoneal mesothelioma is however not staged.

Staging is the term used to describe the extent of a patient's cancer, based on the primary tumor and its spread in the body. It can help the medical team plan treatment, forecast possible prognosis, and identify clinical trials for which the patient may be eligible.

Staging is based on the knowledge of how the cancer develops, from the primary tumor, to the invasion of nearby organs and tissues, to distant spread or metastasis. Staging systems have evolved over time, and they continue to change as scientists learn more about cancer. Some staging systems cover many different types of cancer, while others focus on more specific cancers. The different staging systems are:

1-Summary staging. This type of staging is used by many cancer registries, make use of this type of staging. Summary staging groups cancer into five main categories:

• In situ - cancer that is present only in the layer of cells in which it began.

• Localized - cancer that is limited to the organ in which it began with no evidence of spread.

• Regional - cancer that has spread from the primary site to nearby lymph nodes or organs.

• Distant - cancer that has spread from the primary site to distant lymph nodes or organs.

• Unknown - cases where not enough information exists to indicate stage.

2-Butchart System - -This is based on the extent of primary tumor mass and divides mesothelioma into four stages.

• Stage I: Tumor is present in the right or left pleura and may also involve the diaphragm on the same side.

• Stage II: Tumor invades the chest wall or involves the esophagus, heart, or pleura on both sides. Lymph nodes in the chest may also be involved.

• Stage III: Tumor has penetrated through the diaphragm into the lining of the abdominal cavity or peritoneum. Lymph nodes beyond those in the chest may also be involved.

• Stage IV: There is evidence of metastasis or spread through the bloodstream to other organs.

3-TNM System- -This is the most widely used staging system . It uses variables of T (tumor), N (lymph nodes), M (metastasis)

• Stage I: Tumor involves right or left pleura and may also have spread to the lung, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side. Lymph nodes are not involved.

• Stage II: Tumor has spread from the pleura on one side to nearby lymph nodes next to the lung on the same side. It may also have spread into the lung, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side.

• Stage III: Tumor is now in the chest wall, muscle, ribs, heart, esophagus, or other organs in the chest on the same side with or without spread to lymph nodes on the same side as the primary tumor.

• Stage IV: Tumor has spread into the lymph nodes in the chest on the side opposite the primary tumor, or extends to the pleura or lung on the opposite side, or directly extends into organs in the abdominal cavity or neck. Any distant metastases is included in this stage.

4-Brigham System: This is the latest system and stages mesothelioma according to resectability (the ability to surgically remove) and lymph node involvement.

• Stage I: Resectable tumor and no lymph node involvement

• Stage II: Resectable tumor but with lymph node involvement

• Stage III: Unresectable tumor extending into chest wall, heart, or through diaphragm, peritoneum; with or without extrathoracic lymph node involvement

• Stage IV: Distant metastatic disease

Knowing the stage of the mesothelioma cancer will then lead to the next step in management which is treatment.

Bello Kamorudeen
http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Mesothelioma Treatment - How Does the Stage of Tumor Affect the Mode of Treatment For Mesothelioma?

The stage (extent) of a mesothelioma is an important factor in determining treatment options. Treatment option used is also based on the patients state of general health and individual preferences. The stage of the tumor most importantly helps to determine whether the tumor is resectable {operable} or not.

Mesotheliomas are very resistant to treatment irrespective of their stage and it is always very important for the patient to know the goal of his or her own treatment before it is commenced, the patient should know whether the aim of the treatment plan is curative or whether it is palliative. The patient must also be informed about the likely side effects and benefits of the treatment. All these will help the patient to make up his/her mind on the preferred mode of treatment.

Early Stage Mesothelioma

Most stage I and some stage II and III mesotheliomas are potentially resectable, but there are exceptions. Resectability is based not only on the size of the tumor, but also on the histological {cellular type} of the cancer with the epitheliod histological type been the most favorable for surgery. Also the location of the tumor and the general state of health of the victim are also considered before surgery is recommended.

Many patients with resectable pleural mesothelioma undergo pleurectomy/decortication or extrapleural pneumonectomy operations to surgically remove their tumors. Patients with peritoneal mesotheliomas in an early stage might also benefit from surgery. Surgery is more likely to result in long-term benefit in stage I cancers, where there is a better chance that most or all of the cancer can be removed. Some patients can have long remissions after extensive surgery by experts. Surgery may still be helpful for later stage cancers, but the benefits are often temporary.

The use of Chemotherapy and radiotherapy as adjuvant therapy to surgery is also very common, they may also be used as the main therapy in early stage of the tumor if the tumor is not operable due to a poor general state of health.

Other forms of surgery for palliative purposes like thorancentesis can also used to alleviate symptoms in the early stages of the cancer.

Finally a patient can also opt to take part in a clinical trial to help to discover new forms of treatment.

Late Stage Mesothelioma

Stage IV mesotheliomas, as well as many earlier stage mesotheliomas, are not resectable by surgery because of the extent of the disease or because a person may not be able to tolerate an operation. The main treatment options at these stage include chemotherapy and radiotherapy to shrink the tumor mass and relieve some of the symptoms of the diseases. The aim of treatment at this stage is not curative and these modes of treatments have serious side effects which the patient must be aware of. Patient should also consider taking part in available clinical trials as there is little hope of survival using the conventional methods of treatment.

Pain management is another important aspect of the care of terminally ill patients. Some minor operations and types of radiation therapy can help relieve pain if needed. Doctors can also prescribe strong pain-relieving drugs. Some people with cancer may hesitate to use opioid drugs (such as morphine) for fear of being sleepy all the time or becoming addicted to them. But many people get very effective pain relief from these medicines without serious side effects. It's very important to let your doctor know if you are having pain so that it can be treated effectively.

Recurrent mesotheliomas

Some mesotheliomas may recur (come back) after the initial treatment. If this happens, further treatment options depend on the location of the cancer and the kind of treatment that was previously prescribed for the patient. Most of the time treatment is limited only to palliative treatments. Chemotherapy could be used to shrink the tumor and provide relief for symptoms. Clinical trials should be highly considered as there is very little hope of any improvement with the use of traditional treatments.

Bello Kamorudeen. http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Mesothelioma Lawyers - Three Crucial Questions You Must Ask Your Lawyer

After receiving a diagnosis of mesothelioma you have to look for a reputable and qualified mesothelioma Lawyer to litigate your case for you. As a mesothelioma victim you are entitled to receiving substantial monetary compensation from the company that probably exposed you to the harmful effects of asbestos fibers which led to your development of the cancer.

Choosing your mesothelioma lawyer can be daunting task, you just have to choose right or else you stand the chance of loosing out on getting the compensation you deserve. Your Lawyer will determine whether or not you are successful in your mesothelioma Lawsuit

Before you make up your mind on your choice of Lawyer you have to set up a meeting with your prospective Lawyers and make sure you ask them the following questions:

1- Ask about the experience of your Lawyers in handling these type of cases, the number of mesothelioma lawsuits they have handled, how much compensation were they able to get for their clients. Ask for documented evidence if necessary to back up their claims.

2- Ask about the costs of the Lawsuit and the amount of fees they are going to charge, are they going to collect their money upfront or do they charge contingency fees. Contingency fees are a percentage of the compensation you receive. If you do not get compensated the Lawyers do not receive any money. This is the common type of financial arrangement that most mesothelioma Lawyers use. You must make sure you agree with your Lawyer on the percentage of the compensation that the lawyer will get before the case commences, most lawyers ask for 30 -40% of the compensation.

3- Ask your Lawyers whether they are the ones that will actually litigate your case or will they be passing the case to another Law firm to actually litigate for them. If this is the case then the Lawyers are not good enough for you and you must look for other ones.

Although the process of choosing the best Lawyer can be a very challenging one, you will be glad you went through all the stress when they get you the compensation you desire.

Bello Kamorudeen. http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Mesothelioma Prognosis: Knowing Your Chances

Some mesothelioma patients want to know about mesothelioma prognosis. They may have their own personal valid reasons for wanting to know their chances of survival or getting better. If you are a mesothelioma patient interested in the same thing, then you have the right to know. Do keep in mind though that there are various prognosis sources. Here are some important points you should consider when reading about asbestos cancer prognosis.

Prognosis Data

Where it Comes From - The first thing you should understand is where prognosis data comes from. Real prognosis information is based form statistical data. Researchers look into different mesothelioma cases through clinical studies to get average figures. This may mean that genuine prognosis information may be true for a large number of patients. This does not mean though that the information is always true.

Asbestos cancer cases can be unique. This is because a lot of different factors can affect mesothelioma. Some of these include your overall health, treatments taken, time when treatment began, mesothelioma type and severity of the condition. It is therefore important not to view prognosis information as absolutely true in your case.

Difficulties with Prognosis

It may be difficult to arrive at statistical or personal mesothelioma prognosis. This is because mesothelioma itself is not like many other forms of cancer. The condition is rare. Asbestos exposure, which is the primary risk factor linked to this condition is not always experienced by a lot of people. Those who also have the condition may not immediately seek doctors' assistance for diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms do not obviously point to the condition and may even mimic the symptoms of other diseases.

Statistical Information

So what do the statistical figures say? Since patients are often diagnosed late, the prognosis for many patients is not good. A lot of patients are told that they can expect to live for only less than a year. Again, there are exceptions to this prognosis. There have been personal accounts of patients who have survived for more than five years. Some even live up to ten years after diagnosis.

Diagnosis

Like other forms of cancer, early mesothelioma diagnosis is important. Early diagnosis means early treatment and higher chances of survival. Since early diagnosis is not often made due to the lack of unique symptoms, you may not even think that a doctor's visit is necessary. Your only clue that may suggest that you may need medical monitoring is asbestos exposure. This is only true however for individuals who work closely with asbestos. Patients who do not handle asbestos on a regular basis may not even remember or know that they have been exposed to asbestos.

Treatment

Treatment is one factor that can affect individual prognosis. Depending on your overall health, the stage of your disease and your doctor's evaluation, you may have to undergo one or two cancer treatment methods. Like other forms of cancer, mesothelioma may be treated through chemotherapy, surgery or radiation therapy.

Mesothelioma prognosis is definitely never definite. Although prognosis information can provide you with valuable insight about the disease, there is no reason to believe that you absolutely have no hope of surviving beyond a year.

Reference:

Rashel Dan

Mesothelioma and Asbestos

Asbestos is a fibrous material which has been in use for a long time mainly for its fire resistant qualities. Asbestos is a preferred building material due to its fire resistant and heat resistant capability coupled with the fact that it is not expensive.

Asbestos was very popular amongst California business owners in the early and mid 20's and they used it in nearly every way they could. They tried to use asbestos to create safer, and cheaper buildings, but time has proven that these building are not any safer, nor are they more cheaper,as the high cost of treating the mesothelioma disease that they caused, they also lead to loss of lives.

Asbestos was once used in everything from automotive parts, clothing, and blankets. It was a natural choice for fire fighter gear. The asbestos material, looked like it was the absolute safest and most rewarding discovery of the 20th century, with buildings, homes, and businesses less likely to burn to the ground with the use of asbestos. The fact that about 3000 people died annually from Mesothelioma , made people to start to see things differently after some time.

Mesothelioma is a direct and profound consequence of long term exposure to asbestos. Asbestos fibers are in fact the only known cause of Mesothelioma. The great tragedy of Mesothelioma is far more insidious than the fact that thousands of people are diagnosed with Mesothelioma every year, but that the knowledge of what asbestos may very well do to the interior of those who were around it regularly has been well known since the 1920s.

Mesothelioma is one of the deadliest diseases with a virtual 100% mortality rate.Most cases will die within a year or two. The material that was often used to protect buildings from fire damage affected the internal organs of the people who worked with it, sentencing these hard working Californians early and painful deaths.

Asbestos affects slowly the lining of the organs, usually attacking the lining of the lungs. It may take somewhere between 10 and 40 years before the damage from asbestos becomes evident in the form of Mesothelioma. Those who worked with it never felt ill or had any physical warning signs that there was anything wrong.

The mortality rate has decreased slightly, as those who are now aware that they worked with asbestos in the past are receiving medical evaluations prior to having symptoms. Unfortunately, many of these individuals are finding their vigilance was warranted. However, with early detection, the survival rate has increased slightly.

For so many, early detection was never a possibility. So few companies were willing to inform their employees that they had been exposed to asbestos for fear of being compelled to reach reasonable and fair financial settlements with the victims of Mesothelioma and their families. Companies which had saved so much by effectively placing their employees at considerable risk need qualified California mesothelioma lawyers to stand up to them in order to provide financial relief from the devastation caused by asbestos.

Mesothelioma lawsuits are unfortunately the only available method of holding companies responsible for their asbestos negligence. A valid mesothelioma lawsuit will not only assists the victim in covering his astronomical medical expenses, but they also help to create awareness and ethical actions by other companies faced with choices during construction.

California mesothelioma lawyers who have excelled in the representation of Mesothelioma victims have surpassed most attorneys in providing aggressive care and representation for their clients. Mesothelioma has become such a glaring example of lack of company concern for their valuable employees. Big companies are required to examine their practices and their human obligation because of Mesothelioma lawsuits and the vast expense of Mesothelioma settlements.

Most of the companies chose to provide less than adequate protection for their workers but chose to provide good fire protection for their buildings. They did not mind some of their workers falling ill of even dying as long as they were able to preserve their buildings.

California workers have had enough of California bad business practice of placing production and performance over the health of their workers. The public needs to let these exploitative California companies know that they would not allow them to exploit them any longer, they must challenge them in courts through the use of Mesothelioma lawsuits.

Bello Kamorudeen. http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Abdominal-Peritoneal Mesothelioma Info

Mesothelioma tumors of the peritoneum include benign, malignant and cystic.

Although peritoneal mesothelioma is the most common of these, it is very rare with an annual incidence of 1-2 cases per million persons. Only 10-20 percent of all mesotheliomas arise in the peritoneum. Peritoneal malignant mesothelioma occurs more commonly in adult males but also occurs rarely in children with equal sex incidence.

Malignant mesothelioma occurs mainly late in the fifth decade of life, the benign type in the fourth decade and the cystic type in the third decade. The non malignant type are common in women.

Cause
The link with asbestos exposure which is well established for pleural mesothelioma is not clear for peritoneal mesothelioma.

Symptoms and Signs
-Abdominal pain which may not be limited to any specific region of the abdomen but may be migratory.
-Abdominal distention and complaints associated with partial bowel obstruction are frequent
-Ascites (fluid in the abdomen,) may be present
-Abdominal mass/swelling may be present

Diagnosis
-CT scans frequently show tumor masses and ascites (fluid in the abdomen)
-Laparatomy and laparoscopy for multiple biopsies {the surgeon opens up the abdomen surgically to look into the peritoneum directly and take samples}

Treatment of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
It is treated with combination therapy:
A. Peritoneal radioactive P32 followed by whole abdomen radiation is used often
B. Chemotherapy:Combination chemotherapy with doxorubicin is a very important secondary component.
C. Surgery:Surgical treatment is done mainly to debulk (reduce the size of the tumor by cutting of parts of the tumor,) and treatment of intestinal obstruction.

Prognosis of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
The prognosis of peritoneal mesothelioma is dismal with median survival of about 1 year after presentation. Death usually results from progressive bowel obstruction.

Bello Kamorudeen. http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Mesothelioma Alternative Therapy - What Are Your Options?

Quite a number of patients afflicted with asbestos related diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma now-a days use different types of complimentary and alternative therapies in addition to conventional therapies like surgery and drugs.

These alternative therapies are used by patients coping with asbestos related disease as a form of pain management, to improve general health, and also to provide symptomatic relief.

Although these treatments do not offer a cure, they certainly help you to live more comfortable lives by providing relief from pain and stress.

The most commonly used alternative therapies include the following:

1} Acupuncture

This is one of the commonest forms of available alternative therapies today, and there are a lot of insurance companies offering coverage for this type of treatment. Acupuncture involves the insertion of extremely fine needles into pressure points at clearly defined locations in the skin to improve the balance and flow of factors called the Yin, Yang, Qi and Blood in traditional Chinese medicine.

This form of treatment provides relief from chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety and stress and it is one of the most commonly used alternative medicines in the treatment of asbestos related diseases.

2} Aromatherapy

This form of alternative therapy involves the use of fragrances to improve physical and psychological well being. The fragrances are applied in liquids called essential oils, which are distilled and highly concentrated plant based oils. Aromatherapists use these fragrances combined in the oils to provide pain relief and to improve the general well being of the patient.

Aromatherapy is often combined with massage , you receive a massage with carrier oils that have been mixed with small amounts of essential oil fragrances.

3} Massage

Massage therapy has been shown to provide a number of important health benefits. It improves blood and lymphatic flow and it is used to improve blood circulation. It also improves muscle tension.

Massage also stimulates nervous and digestive systems, relieve chronic pain and improve skin function. Many patients find this type of therapy useful in reducing anxiety and stress as well as reducing chronic pain.

4} Meditation

Meditation is a well known way of relieving stress, anxiety and depression. Meditation is now also used to manage pain and other symptoms of diseases. Many cancer patients add meditation to their treatment schedules to help to reduce pain, stress and anxiety. Certain studies have shown that meditation may be able to reduce tumor growth and improve your prognosis.

5} Supplements

Dietary supplements include vitamins, minerals, herbs, and amino acids. Vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are all needed by the body to carry out essential life functions, and supplements can help provide necessary chemicals when diet alone cannot. Many herbs can help treat diseases and conditions, as well as provide symptomatic relief. For example, flaxseed, ginseng, and garlic are all known to reduce blood pressure.

When it comes to supplements, it's very important to let your physician know the kind of supplements you are taking, as they can affect how well your prescription medications work. Some supplements can even have dangerous interactive effects when taken in conjunction with certain prescription medications.

6} TENS Therapy

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation - commonly known as TENS therapy - is somewhat similar to acupuncture, in that this treatment stimulates certain defined body locations. However, while acupuncture uses fine needles, TENS therapy stimulates body points with the use of electrodes that deliver very mild electrical shocks.

Unlike many other types of complementary and alternative therapy, TENS has actually been approved by the FDA. While this doesn't automatically mean that TENS can provide a cure when it is used, it does mean that the treatment has been determined to be safe according to FDA regulations, and also means that TENS therapy is covered by insurance.

7} Yoga

The origins of yoga lie in India, where this ancient art is practiced more for spiritual reasons than for health-related reasons. Outside of India, yoga has become a popular form of exercise that is physically and psychologically calming and strengthening. Learning simple yoga techniques can help improve general health by toning and strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and improving general health and one's state of mind.

8} Pet Therapy

Also known as animal-assisted therapy or animal-assisted activities, this type of therapy aims to improve the general health and well-being of patients by allowing them to interact with a variety of animals. The wonderful effects of animal interaction has long been known - the simple act of stroking a cat or dog can improve the mood, lift the spirits, and even provide some physical benefits (such as the temporary lowering of blood pressure). Pet therapy techniques can be used for a wide variety of medical conditions. For example, a physical therapist working with a person recovering from a stroke might bring a dog to a therapy session and have the patient brush the dog to help improve their motor skills.

Reference:Bello Kamorudeen http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Terminal Mesothelioma Cancer-How to Recognise a Dying Mesothelioma Victim

When the mesothelioma victim begins to show signs of imminent death, it is the time to for the relatives and friends to come around to say final goodbyes to their loved one. One after the other, the family members and friends might spend time with the patient, holding hands, talking to the patient, or just sitting quietly by the patient.

It can also be a time to perform any religious rituals and other activities the patient desires before he/she passes on. It is a chance for many families and friends to express their love and appreciation for the patient and for each other.

This also the time to plan for what to do after the death of the patient, so that the family will not be confused about what to during this very emotional time. If the patient is in hospice, the hospice nurse and social worker will help you. If the patient is not in hospice, talk with your doctor about it so that you will know what to do at the time of death.

These are some of the symptoms that will be seen in a dying mesothelioma cancer patient:

1- Changes in body function

• profound weakness,usually the patient cannot get out of bed and has trouble moving around in bed

• needs help with nearly everything he or she does. May be unable to change positions without help

• less and less interest in food, often with very little food and fluid intake for days

• trouble swallowing pills and medicines

• more drowsiness--the patient may doze or sleep much of the time if pain is relieved. May be restless and pick or pull at bed linens. May be hard to rouse or wake. Anxiety, fear, restlessness, and loneliness may worsen at night

• cannot concentrate, has short attention span

• confused about time, place, or people

• limited ability to cooperate with caregivers

• involuntary movement of any muscle, jerking of hands, arms, legs, or face

2- Changes in consciousness

• more sleeping during the day

• hard to wake or rouse from sleep

• confusion about time, place, or people

• restless, may pick or pull at bed linen

• may talk about things unrelated to the events or people present

• may have more anxiety, restlessness, fear, and loneliness at night

• after a period of sleepiness and confusion, may have a short time when he or she is mentally clear before going back into semi-consciousness

3- Changes in metabolism

• less interest in food -- the patient has less need for food and drink

• mouth may dry out (see the next section on changes in secretions)

• may no longer need some of his or her medicines, such as vitamins, replacement hormones, blood pressure medicines, and diuretics (unless they help make the patient more comfortable)

4- Changes in secretions

• mucus in the mouth may collect in the back of the throat (This may be a very distressing sound to hear, but doesn't usually cause discomfort to the patient.)

• secretions may thicken due to less fluid intake and build up because the patient cannot cough

.
5- Changes in circulation and temperature

• • arms and legs may feel cool to the touch as circulation slows down

• skin on arms, legs, hands, and feet may darken in color and look mottled (blotchy dark spots)

• other areas of the body may become either darker or paler

• skin may feel cold and either dry or damp

• heart rate may become fast, faint, or irregular

• blood pressure may get lower and become hard to hear


6-Changes in senses and perception

• vision may become blurry or dim

• hearing may decrease, but most patients are able to hear you even after they can no longer speak


7-Changes in breathing

• breathing may speed up and slow down due to less blood circulation and build up of waste products in the body

• mucus in the back of the throat may cause rattling or gurgling with each breath

• the patient may not breathe for periods of up 10 to 30 seconds

8-Changes in excretion

• urine may become darker and decrease in amount

• when death is near, the patient may lose control of urine and stool


Signs of irreversible death also known as “brain death”

-Cessation of breathing as the patients chest becomes still, not showing normal respiratory movements.

-Blood pressure becomes unrecordable

-Nil pulse in the blood vessels as the pulse stops

-Still immovable eyes with fixed wide gaze

-Open fixed pupils of the eyes, even in bright light

-Loss of control of bowels or bladder function as the muscles relax

After death it is all right if you sit with your loved one for a while. There is no rush to get anything done right away. Many families find this is an important time to pray or talk together and reconfirm their love for each other, as well as for the person who has passed away.

If the patient dies at home, caregivers are responsible for calling the appropriate people. Regulations or laws about who must be notified and how the body should be moved differ from one community to another. Your doctor or nurse can get this information for you. If you have a hospice or home care agency involved, call them. If you have completed funeral arrangements, calling the funeral director and doctor are usually all that you have to do.

Bello kamorudeen. http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Mesothelioma Staging - Know the Different Staging Systems

Treatment options are often determined by the stage of mesothelioma a patient is in. There are different staging systems currently in use for pleural mesothelioma with each one measuring different variables, peritoneal mesothelioma is however not staged.

Staging is the term used to describe the extent of a patient's cancer, based on the primary tumor and its spread in the body. It can help the medical team plan treatment, forecast possible prognosis, and identify clinical trials for which the patient may be eligible.

Staging is based on the knowledge of how the cancer develops, from the primary tumor, to the invasion of nearby organs and tissues, to distant spread or metastasis. Staging systems have evolved over time, and they continue to change as scientists learn more about cancer. Some staging systems cover many different types of cancer, while others focus on more specific cancers. The different staging systems are:

1-Summary staging. This type of staging is used by many cancer registries, make use of this type of staging. Summary staging groups cancer into five main categories:

• In situ - cancer that is present only in the layer of cells in which it began.

• Localized - cancer that is limited to the organ in which it began with no evidence of spread.

• Regional - cancer that has spread from the primary site to nearby lymph nodes or organs.

• Distant - cancer that has spread from the primary site to distant lymph nodes or organs.

• Unknown - cases where not enough information exists to indicate stage.

2-Butchart System - -This is based on the extent of primary tumor mass and divides mesothelioma into four stages.

• Stage I: Tumor is present in the right or left pleura and may also involve the diaphragm on the same side.

• Stage II: Tumor invades the chest wall or involves the esophagus, heart, or pleura on both sides. Lymph nodes in the chest may also be involved.

• Stage III: Tumor has penetrated through the diaphragm into the lining of the abdominal cavity or peritoneum. Lymph nodes beyond those in the chest may also be involved.

• Stage IV: There is evidence of metastasis or spread through the bloodstream to other organs.

3-TNM System- -This is the most widely used staging system . It uses variables of T (tumor), N (lymph nodes), M (metastasis)

• Stage I: Tumor involves right or left pleura and may also have spread to the lung, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side. Lymph nodes are not involved.

• Stage II: Tumor has spread from the pleura on one side to nearby lymph nodes next to the lung on the same side. It may also have spread into the lung, pericardium, or diaphragm on the same side.

• Stage III: Tumor is now in the chest wall, muscle, ribs, heart, esophagus, or other organs in the chest on the same side with or without spread to lymph nodes on the same side as the primary tumor.

• Stage IV: Tumor has spread into the lymph nodes in the chest on the side opposite the primary tumor, or extends to the pleura or lung on the opposite side, or directly extends into organs in the abdominal cavity or neck. Any distant metastases is included in this stage.

4-Brigham System: This is the latest system and stages mesothelioma according to resectability (the ability to surgically remove) and lymph node involvement.

• Stage I: Resectable tumor and no lymph node involvement

• Stage II: Resectable tumor but with lymph node involvement

• Stage III: Unresectable tumor extending into chest wall, heart, or through diaphragm, peritoneum; with or without extrathoracic lymph node involvement

• Stage IV: Distant metastatic disease

Knowing the stage of the mesothelioma cancer will then lead to the next step in management which is treatment.

Reference:Bello Kamorudeen http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Mesothelioma Treatment - How Does the Stage of Tumor Affect the Mode of Treatment For Mesothelioma?

The stage (extent) of a mesothelioma is an important factor in determining treatment options. Treatment option used is also based on the patients state of general health and individual preferences. The stage of the tumor most importantly helps to determine whether the tumor is resectable {operable} or not.

Mesotheliomas are very resistant to treatment irrespective of their stage and it is always very important for the patient to know the goal of his or her own treatment before it is commenced, the patient should know whether the aim of the treatment plan is curative or whether it is palliative. The patient must also be informed about the likely side effects and benefits of the treatment. All these will help the patient to make up his/her mind on the preferred mode of treatment.

Early Stage Mesothelioma

Most stage I and some stage II and III mesotheliomas are potentially resectable, but there are exceptions. Resectability is based not only on the size of the tumor, but also on the histological {cellular type} of the cancer with the epitheliod histological type been the most favorable for surgery. Also the location of the tumor and the general state of health of the victim are also considered before surgery is recommended.

Many patients with resectable pleural mesothelioma undergo pleurectomy/decortication or extrapleural pneumonectomy operations to surgically remove their tumors. Patients with peritoneal mesotheliomas in an early stage might also benefit from surgery. Surgery is more likely to result in long-term benefit in stage I cancers, where there is a better chance that most or all of the cancer can be removed. Some patients can have long remissions after extensive surgery by experts. Surgery may still be helpful for later stage cancers, but the benefits are often temporary.

The use of Chemotherapy and radiotherapy as adjuvant therapy to surgery is also very common, they may also be used as the main therapy in early stage of the tumor if the tumor is not operable due to a poor general state of health.

Other forms of surgery for palliative purposes like thorancentesis can also used to alleviate symptoms in the early stages of the cancer.

Finally a patient can also opt to take part in a clinical trial to help to discover new forms of treatment.

Late Stage Mesothelioma

Stage IV mesotheliomas, as well as many earlier stage mesotheliomas, are not resectable by surgery because of the extent of the disease or because a person may not be able to tolerate an operation. The main treatment options at these stage include chemotherapy and radiotherapy to shrink the tumor mass and relieve some of the symptoms of the diseases. The aim of treatment at this stage is not curative and these modes of treatments have serious side effects which the patient must be aware of. Patient should also consider taking part in available clinical trials as there is little hope of survival using the conventional methods of treatment.

Pain management is another important aspect of the care of terminally ill patients. Some minor operations and types of radiation therapy can help relieve pain if needed. Doctors can also prescribe strong pain-relieving drugs. Some people with cancer may hesitate to use opioid drugs (such as morphine) for fear of being sleepy all the time or becoming addicted to them. But many people get very effective pain relief from these medicines without serious side effects. It's very important to let your doctor know if you are having pain so that it can be treated effectively.

Recurrent mesotheliomas

Some mesotheliomas may recur (come back) after the initial treatment. If this happens, further treatment options depend on the location of the cancer and the kind of treatment that was previously prescribed for the patient. Most of the time treatment is limited only to palliative treatments. Chemotherapy could be used to shrink the tumor and provide relief for symptoms. Clinical trials should be highly considered as there is very little hope of any improvement with the use of traditional treatments.

Reference:Bello Kamorudeen.http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Mesothelioma Lawyers - Three Crucial Questions You Must Ask Your Lawyer

After receiving a diagnosis of mesothelioma you have to look for a reputable and qualified mesothelioma Lawyer to litigate your case for you. As a mesothelioma victim you are entitled to receiving substantial monetary compensation from the company that probably exposed you to the harmful effects of asbestos fibers which led to your development of the cancer.

Choosing your mesothelioma lawyer can be daunting task, you just have to choose right or else you stand the chance of loosing out on getting the compensation you deserve. Your Lawyer will determine whether or not you are successful in your mesothelioma Lawsuit

Before you make up your mind on your choice of Lawyer you have to set up a meeting with your prospective Lawyers and make sure you ask them the following questions:

1- Ask about the experience of your Lawyers in handling these type of cases, the number of mesothelioma lawsuits they have handled, how much compensation were they able to get for their clients. Ask for documented evidence if necessary to back up their claims.

2- Ask about the costs of the Lawsuit and the amount of fees they are going to charge, are they going to collect their money upfront or do they charge contingency fees. Contingency fees are a percentage of the compensation you receive. If you do not get compensated the Lawyers do not receive any money. This is the common type of financial arrangement that most mesothelioma Lawyers use. You must make sure you agree with your Lawyer on the percentage of the compensation that the lawyer will get before the case commences, most lawyers ask for 30 -40% of the compensation.

3- Ask your Lawyers whether they are the ones that will actually litigate your case or will they be passing the case to another Law firm to actually litigate for them. If this is the case then the Lawyers are not good enough for you and you must look for other ones.

Although the process of choosing the best Lawyer can be a very challenging one, you will be glad you went through all the stress when they get you the compensation you desire.
Reference:Bello Kamorudeen.http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Mesothelioma and Asbestos

Asbestos is a fibrous material which has been in use for a long time mainly for its fire resistant qualities. Asbestos is a preferred building material due to its fire resistant and heat resistant capability coupled with the fact that it is not expensive.

Asbestos was very popular amongst California business owners in the early and mid 20's and they used it in nearly every way they could. They tried to use asbestos to create safer, and cheaper buildings, but time has proven that these building are not any safer, nor are they more cheaper,as the high cost of treating the mesothelioma disease that they caused, they also lead to loss of lives.

Asbestos was once used in everything from automotive parts, clothing, and blankets. It was a natural choice for fire fighter gear. The asbestos material, looked like it was the absolute safest and most rewarding discovery of the 20th century, with buildings, homes, and businesses less likely to burn to the ground with the use of asbestos. The fact that about 3000 people died annually from Mesothelioma , made people to start to see things differently after some time.

Mesothelioma is a direct and profound consequence of long term exposure to asbestos. Asbestos fibers are in fact the only known cause of Mesothelioma. The great tragedy of Mesothelioma is far more insidious than the fact that thousands of people are diagnosed with Mesothelioma every year, but that the knowledge of what asbestos may very well do to the interior of those who were around it regularly has been well known since the 1920s.

Mesothelioma is one of the deadliest diseases with a virtual 100% mortality rate.Most cases will die within a year or two. The material that was often used to protect buildings from fire damage affected the internal organs of the people who worked with it, sentencing these hard working Californians early and painful deaths.

Asbestos affects slowly the lining of the organs, usually attacking the lining of the lungs. It may take somewhere between 10 and 40 years before the damage from asbestos becomes evident in the form of Mesothelioma. Those who worked with it never felt ill or had any physical warning signs that there was anything wrong.

The mortality rate has decreased slightly, as those who are now aware that they worked with asbestos in the past are receiving medical evaluations prior to having symptoms. Unfortunately, many of these individuals are finding their vigilance was warranted. However, with early detection, the survival rate has increased slightly.

For so many, early detection was never a possibility. So few companies were willing to inform their employees that they had been exposed to asbestos for fear of being compelled to reach reasonable and fair financial settlements with the victims of Mesothelioma and their families. Companies which had saved so much by effectively placing their employees at considerable risk need qualified California mesothelioma lawyers to stand up to them in order to provide financial relief from the devastation caused by asbestos.

Mesothelioma lawsuits are unfortunately the only available method of holding companies responsible for their asbestos negligence. A valid mesothelioma lawsuit will not only assists the victim in covering his astronomical medical expenses, but they also help to create awareness and ethical actions by other companies faced with choices during construction.

California mesothelioma lawyers who have excelled in the representation of Mesothelioma victims have surpassed most attorneys in providing aggressive care and representation for their clients. Mesothelioma has become such a glaring example of lack of company concern for their valuable employees. Big companies are required to examine their practices and their human obligation because of Mesothelioma lawsuits and the vast expense of Mesothelioma settlements.

Most of the companies chose to provide less than adequate protection for their workers but chose to provide good fire protection for their buildings. They did not mind some of their workers falling ill of even dying as long as they were able to preserve their buildings.

California workers have had enough of California bad business practice of placing production and performance over the health of their workers. The public needs to let these exploitative Carlifornia companies know that they would not allow them to exploit them any longer, they must challenge them in courts through the use of Mesothelioma lawsuits.

Reference:Bello Kamorudeen.http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Abdominal-Peritoneal Mesothelioma Info

Mesothelioma tumors of the peritoneum include benign, malignant and cystic.

Although peritoneal mesothelioma is the most common of these, it is very rare with an annual incidence of 1-2 cases per million persons. Only 10-20 percent of all mesotheliomas arise in the peritoneum. Peritoneal malignant mesothelioma occurs more commonly in adult males but also occurs rarely in children with equal sex incidence.

Malignant mesothelioma occurs mainly late in the fifth decade of life, the benign type in the fourth decade and the cystic type in the third decade. The non malignant type are common in women.

Cause
The link with asbestos exposure which is well established for pleural mesothelioma is not clear for peritoneal mesothelioma.

Symptoms and Signs
-Abdominal pain which may not be limited to any specific region of the abdomen but may be migratory.
-Abdominal distention and complaints associated with partial bowel obstruction are frequent
-Ascites (fluid in the abdomen,) may be present
-Abdominal mass/swelling may be present

Diagnosis
-CT scans frequently show tumor masses and ascites (fluid in the abdomen)
-Laparatomy and laparoscopy for multiple biopsies {the surgeon opens up the abdomen surgically to look into the peritoneum directly and take samples}

Treatment of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
It is treated with combination therapy:
A. Peritoneal radioactive P32 followed by whole abdomen radiation is used often
B. Chemotherapy:Combination chemotherapy with doxorubicin is a very important secondary component.
C. Surgery:Surgical treatment is done mainly to debulk (reduce the size of the tumor by cutting of parts of the tumor,) and treatment of intestinal obstruction.

Prognosis of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
The prognosis of peritoneal mesothelioma is dismal with median survival of about 1 year after presentation. Death usually results from progressive bowel obstruction.

Reference:Bello Kamorudeen.http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Mesothelioma Compensation-Halliburton Co. to pay $30 million compensation

On February four, 2005, the Halliburton Company was ordered to pay thirty million dollars in compensation to about 120 families of people who worked for shipyards, construction sites and industrial plants in the Pacific Northwest or served on naval ships serviced in Seattle.
Halliburton Company actually set up 4.3 billion dollars as part of a national settlement program to wrap up asbestos claims and liabilities. This settlement will cater for people who are ailing, people who have died, and people who will still die from asbestos exposure in the upcoming years. The company agreed to pay 2.78 million dollars and put up 59.5 million shares of its stock to form a trust for future victims of asbestos related diseases.

Halliburton acquired Dresser Industries Inc. in 1998 and inherited the asbestos and silica claims, filed against the company. The workers of the company had been wrongly exposed to the toxic effects of asbestos fibers at their place of work and most of them had carried the asbestos fibers home on their work clothes to also expose their family members to this toxic substance. Dresser officials knew about the harmful effects of the asbestos fibers, but they were only concerned about the profits they were making form sale of their products.

All mesothelioma victims should file lawsuits against the people that wrongfully and deliberately exposed them to asbestos, so they need to get as much information they can get about mesothelioma lawyers and mesothelioma lawsuits.

Reference:Bello Kamorudeen http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Mesothelioma Settlement-Ford Motor Company ordered to pay $10 million Compensation

On May 29, 2004, a Texas court found Ford Motor Company guilty of negligence and ordered the company to pay the sum of $ 10 million to the family of Carolyn Miller.
The plaintiff from Dearborn, Michigan, died from mesothelioma in the year 2000 at age of 54 years as result of the asbestos she was exposed to when as child she was dusting and washing the work clothes of her father, John Roland, who worked at a Ford plant in Michigan from 1953-1964.

John Roland used to work in the blast furnaces where he was constantly exposed to asbestos fibers which stuck to his work clothes which he took home for his daughter to wash for him after closing everyday. He developed pleural plaques, and asbestosis which is also caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. This lung disease could transform to a full blown mesothelioma cancer later.

After a protracted Legal battle the following compensation was awarded to the Miller family, not as form of punishment to the company but to compensate the Miller Family for all the loss and pain that their unlawful exposure to asbestos caused them:-

-$4.5 million was awarded to the Millers estate

-$500,000 was awarded to John Roland

-$750,000 was awarded to Millers daughter

-$1.5 million to Millers daughter

-$2.75 million to Millers husband Glen

Mesothelioma victims should learn as much as they can about mesothelioma lawsuits so that they will be able to file successful lawsuits to get the compensation they deserve

Reference:Bello Kamorudeen.http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

How are asbestos related diseases detected early?

If you have been exposed to asbestos before and you are suspecting that you have developed asbestos related disease your doctor may recommend these tests for you:
Chest x-ray

This is the most common test used to detect sustained exposure to asbestos. The x-ray cannot detect the asbestos fibers themselves, but it can detect early signs of lung changes caused by asbestos. The chest x-ray may shows spots on the lungs, these may or may not be asbestos-related. They may be normal variations or related to infections and different types of diseases. Also in the latter stages of lung cancer and mesothelioma, chest x -ray may reveal certain features that are highly suggestive of these diseases.

Lung Function Tests

A lung function test also known as a pulmonary function test (PFT) is a simple breathing test to see how well your lungs are working. In this test, a person blows big breaths into a machine. The results obtained from this test will show how well your lung is functioning and the lung function is usually decreased in asbestos related diseases.

A computerized tomography scan (CT)

This is a type of x-ray machine that usually delivers a higher resolution picture of the lungs than plain x-ray. CT scan gives three dimensional view of the lung and so is able to detect early changes better than x-ray. It is usually recommended when the results of a chest x -ray is inconclusive.

Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL)

This involves the passage of a small flexible tube inserted through the nose and down the airway. A small amount of saline solution is injected into the tube and then sucked back up. The fluid obtained contains saline plus material from the lung. This fluid is then subjected to various analysis. The results from this test however can be inconclusive and this test is performed only under special circumstances.

Lung biopsy

This involves the taking of samples of lung tissue through a needle while the patient is sedated. This tissue is examined under a microscope. Lung biopsies are rarely performed. Lung biopsies are rarely performed because diagnosis is usually based on findings from the medical evaluation and other tests. A lung biopsy is not usually needed for the diagnosis of most asbestos-related diseases.

Urine and sputum tests Sputum is the material that is brought up from the lungs by coughing. Urine and sputum tests are not reliable for determining how much asbestos may be in the lungs. Nearly everyone has low levels of asbestos in these materials. These tests cannot predict the risk of illness. More research may improve the reliability and predictability of these tests

Reference:Bello Kamorudeen. http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

6 Crucial Facts About Lung Cancer

1-Lung cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. It is characterized by the abnormal division and multiplication of cells within the lungs and bronchial tubes causing the accumulation of tumor cells into a cancer.
2- In the United States alone, approximately 10,000 people die from asbestos-related illnesses, and many of these people are victims of lung cancer.

3-There are two basic types of lung cancer - small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer, the latter of which represents the large majority of lung cancer cases diagnosed in the United States each year. In patients with lung cancer, the tissue cells of the lungs and associated respiratory organs begin to divide abnormally at an uncontrollable rate. Cancers that develop in the lungs may metastasize to other regions of the body. These growths are composed of cells similar to those of the original tumor and are just as likely to pose a health threat to the afflicted person.

4-The symptoms of lung cancer are many and vary according to individual cases and factors. Some of the more common symptoms of lung cancer include persistent coughing, chest pain, changes in the color, volume, or consistency of sputum, the presence of blood in sputum, weight loss, or decrease in appetite, headaches, and general fatigue. Although these symptoms may indicate the presence of lung cancer, they are not by any means a certain measure of diagnosis.

5-A person experiencing these symptoms must seek a medical analysis for an accurate diagnosis. Imaging tests like chest x-ray, CTscan, MRI, PET scans are used to diagnose the disease. Also tissue tests known as biopsy are also used to confirm the diagnosis.

6- According to experts in the field of asbestos and lung cancer, there are a number of factors that can affect a person's level of risk for developing lung cancer once they have been exposed to asbestos. The amount of asbestos exposure and the quantity of fibers that have collected in the body greatly affect one's risk of developing cancer. It is important to remember that, as with most cancers, lifestyle plays a considerable role in the risk of developing lung cancer after exposure to asbestos. Smokers and other people who have a lung condition (or any illness) prior to exposure are at a greater risk for developing asbestos-related lung cancer, not only because their respiratory system has already been compromised, but also because of the synergistic affect of smoking and asbestos exposure. Many people who are exposed to asbestos develop non-cancerous respiratory illnesses, such as asbestosis, which also increases the risk of developing lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Reference:Bello Kamorudeen http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Mesothelioma Trials-What Are the Different 4 Stages Of The Trial?

A mesothelioma patient is not compulsorily required to attend the trial of his/her mesothelioma lawsuit because most times by the time the lawsuit commences the patient will be too weak to attend, but if the patient decides to attend then he/she must be prepared to go through the different stages pf a trial. Each trial is different but there is usually an order of events in all civil cases and they will all pass through the following stages:
1-First, the judge (and possible a jury) will hear opening statements. Your lawyer will start by outlining your case. In response, the defendant's lawyers will outline how they hope to disprove your case. Opening statements are not evidence, but a brief outline of what each position hopes to prove during trial.

2-After opening statements, both parties will submit evidence for the judge and possible jury to review. This will include factual findings and testimony. Evidence such as old receipts, air quality tests, and medical records may come into play. Personal friends, family members, coworkers, doctors, and related experts may also be called to testify. If you are going to testify, upon being sworn in, your lawyer and the defendant's lawyer will proceed to question you about the case. Before this portion of the case, your lawyer will have reviewed with you not only the questions he or she will ask, but also the questions the defendant's lawyer is likely to ask of you. It is very important to assert your side of the case while answering all questions honestly. Witnesses will go through the same testimony process as well. Physical evidence, such as medical records or work history, will be submitted as evidence to the court.

3-Presentation of the evidence is followed by closing arguments. This element of trial is extremely important, especially in the case of a jury trial. The plaintiff will give closing arguments first. This speech will sum up the facts, discredit the defendant, and ask the jury to empathize and rule in your favor. The defense will then present a closing argument as well, in which they will attempt to refute your claims.

4-If the trial involves a jury, all 12 members of the jury will retire to a conference room to deliberate after closing statements. Deliberation by the jury can take just an hour or two, or it can take several days. In high profile cases, the jury may be sequestered and sent to a hotel instead of home. However, in most civil cases, the jury is not sequestered. When the jury reaches a verdict, all are called back to court and the foreman of the jury (elected by the other jurors) announces the decision.

Sometimes upon the completion of this initial trial the defendants can appeal the verdict if it does not favor them, the period of time for this appeal varies sometimes it lasts up to a month and some other times it takes longer. If the defendant wins the appeal, you may also be able to also challenge this decision if factual errors are found or procedures were not carried out correctly. This depends on the court and on the details of the appeal case.

Keep in mind that at any point during the trial, you and the defendant can decide to reach a settlement out of court if the defendant is willing to pay a reasonable amount of money. Usually if the defendant's lawyer sees that you have a very strong case at some stage of the trial they will approach you for a possible out of court settlement. Once this is agreed upon the complaint by the plaintiff is withdrawn and the trial is stopped.

Mesothelioma victims should seek to know as much as they can about mesothelioma trials and lawsuits so that they do not get easily discouraged along the way.

Reference:Bello Kamorudeen http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

How To Find The Best Mesothelioma Doctors

Mesothelioma is a very rare kind of tumor that develops in the mesothelium - a membrane that surrounds the chest cavity, the cavity around the heart, as well as the abdominal cavity. The job of the mesothelium is also to protect nearly all of the body's internal organs. Mesothelioma can be benign and although it impacts the effectiveness of the internal organs, the tumor mass can be surgically removed. On the other hand, cancerous mesothelioma usually develops through the exposure to asbestos and over 3000 Americans die from this disease every year. According to mesothelioma doctors, the death rate for mesothelioma will peak within a decade, with a 3-1 ration between men and women who contract the disease.

Anybody who was ever employed in the construction industry where asbestos was used, or within any industry for that matter where they were exposed to this product should seriously consider consulting with a mesothelioma doctor. Even if patients do not display any of the typical symptoms of problems related to asbestos exposure, they should realize that many of these symptoms would only develop decades after exposure.

The initial diagnosis of the disease may or may not be through mesothelioma doctors. If patients are suffering from lung or abdominal problems, they might first consult with an ordinary doctor who looks through his or her past and finds the link between the complaints and asbestos. The doctors will look for telltale signs such as work history, facial and neck swelling, high levels of CEA in the lungs, and others. A biopsy will be required to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and once this is confirmed, the patient's next step is to find the best mesothelioma doctor available.

Mesothelioma is a rare condition and only doctors who are familiar with asbestos related diseases can give patients the best treatment available. An early diagnosis is very important as the disease spreads rapidly and patients should feel very comfortable with their treating physicians.

To find the best mesothelioma doctors around, patients should consider contacting hospitals or treatment centers that deal with lung disease. Ideally, these institutions will do regular research relating to mesothelioma and the doctor will specialize in this field. New developments are taking place in the medical industry every day and any good mesothelioma doctor will be aware of these new trends and treatments. While some patients are told that there is no cure for the disease, many are finding answers with some of the best mesothelioma doctors out there who manage to keep abreast with current research.

Reference:Nick Johnson

Mesothelioma Doctors

Mesothelioma is not easy for doctors to diagnose. Although humankind has witnessed tremendous advances in medical diagnosis technologies and techniques, mesothelioma continues to remain a challenge for doctors. Thus, not every doctor can treat this disease. It calls for the service of a special set of doctors who are trained to handle mesothelioma cases.

Being a complex disease, mesothelioma requires several different types of treatment. Seeking the help of specialized doctors, each trained in specific fields or treatment, is the best possible means of treating mesothelioma. Since there are various types of mesothelioma that affect different body parts, it is best if the disease is treated with a team. To begin with, even before a patient is referred to the specialist team, the onus of suspecting the symptoms as related to cancer, such as mesothelioma, lies with the general practitioner.

Once the general practitioner refers the patient, the specialized team decides the future course of action. The first specialist in the team is a pulmonologist who is specially trained to diagnose and treat conditions as well as diseases that are related to lung disorders. This specialist can competently handle cases of pleural mesothelioma, lung cancer, bronchitis, asthma, emphysema, and COPD. The next specialist in line is the thoracic surgeon, who specializes in undertaking surgery of the lungs, amongst others, and can deal with coronary disease, lung and abdominal cancers, and heart and lung surgery.

The medical oncologist is another trained physician who specializes in treating cancer through chemotherapy. Even within oncologists, there are several types of physicians who specialize in treating cancer. In contrast to the medical oncologist is the radiation oncologist, who treats cancer through radiation therapy, and the radiologist, who uses equipment such as x-rays, ultrasound, and scans to diagnose cancer.

An additional group of specialists consists of pathologists who monitor and evaluate changes in the human cells in order to understand the nature of the disease. Using body fluids and excretions, they identify the disease and its intensity. However, unlike other mesothelioma-trained physicians, pathologists do not directly treat patients. Similarly, there are some other specialists who also do not participate directly in the treatment process. These include the social worker and the respiratory therapist.

Reference: Alison Cole

Your First Doctor Who Carries Out Mesothelioma Diagnosis

If the doctor who carries out mesothelioma diagnosis is your first doctor, then chances are that he will give you a reference to an oncologist for further treatments. The oncologist can provide you with his own thinking of the best mesothelioma treatments, or he can’t go further because of limited knowledge, he may refer you to some specialist doctors. Often, the specialists doctors are found in bigger teaching hospital.These mesothelioma cancers centers are regarded as well equipped mesothelioma cancers center, and they are respected greatly for their advanced care, and treatments. If you choose meso-treatments that is radical, such as surgery, or a clinical trial that involves a new but drugs that are unproven, then you need such a mesothelioma cancers center. But if you need a treatment involving an endorsed and approved type of chemotherapy, then some local mesothelioma doctors can perform that.

Mesothelioma treatments that will be offered to you differs with respect to age and the patient’s overall health, and the spread of the mesothelioma cancers. Importance is placed on you getting all the required information for you case, in order to be able to make certain decisions as regards your comfortability. You may be given offers like surgery, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, and clinical trials, and some other new approaches.

There are many doctors you can talk to, and some of these questions can be asked:

Why is this treatment option the best that i should consider?

What are the things involved with this option?

What are the merits and demerits of this treatment of mesothelioma, or is this option going to limit my choice of other treatment of mesothelioma?

What are the side effects and risks involved in this option?

What is the previous statistics of survival, and mortality that are related to this option?

Can i also undergo palliative treatment option?

Some conditions such as age, health inconsistency, or the advancement of the disease can make the aggressive treatment of mesothelioma impossible.

Reference: Ali Edenhson

Mesothelioma Doctor Research

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer. It afflicts persons who have worked in asbestos- related industries like asbestos mines, shipyards, insulation factories and construction sites. Initially, the workers in these establishments were unaware that the exposure to the asbestos dust could result in such grave consequences. They became conscious of the potential hazards of this disease after three or four decades, since the disease lies dormant for such long periods. The result of dormancy was that the medical field also recognized the existence of this disease a bit late; when the patients came for treatment, doctors were finally able to relate the symptoms to the causes. Initially the symptoms like chest pain, cough, fever and breathlessness were associated with common occurring diseases like pneumonia, but when the patients failed to respond to the treatment. the medical world started research.

Again, when the awareness of the hazardous effects of asbestos dust dawned on the medical community and the public, lawsuits began to be initiated in the courts for compensation, and the government began to act stringently against the asbestos-based industries. The total number of Mesothelioma-afflicted patients in the whole of the United States is not more than 2,000 annually, and, fortunately, even this number is likely to decrease over the coming years. Quite a majority of doctors are still unaware of the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of mesothelioma. Since the incidence of the disease is not very common, the number of doctors specializing in this area is also small.

The National Institute of Cancer, Washington Cancer Institute, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeon, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, etc. are some of the major institutions and research organizations that are the best sources to find out the right doctors for Mesothelioma treatment.

Reference: Eric Morris

How Do I Find a Good Mesothelioma Doctor?

Just like looking for the best lawyers to handle a serious case, looking for the best doctors for mesothelioma is very important. If you or your loved one has this form of cancer, only the best trained and experienced doctor can give you the accurate diagnosis and can recommend other recuperative approaches. You will need to find a doctor who is knowledgeable about the disease and medication or other treatment options. You need a doctor who can come up with the correct options in care such as chemotherapy, radiation, surgical appraisal, and/or other more focused forms of treatment. It is of paramount significance to broaden your search for doctors who handle mesothelioma successfully. You want the doctor who also keeps himself informed of the latest procedures and studies.

You also need to know who is the backup physician. With a qualified substitute you can feel rest assured that you will be taken care of when you need medical attention. You have to consider the hospital where the doctor has work privileges. Since you will be visiting the clinic or hospital every now and then, it is important that you are comfortable with the location and quality of care that you would receive at that location.

You and your doctor will be partners for the rest of your life. So choosing a doctor should be done painstakingly and with care. Consider recommendations or referrals. Reflect on the credentials of the doctors and verify them. Choose 3 or 4 specialists and study their credentials before finally making appointments with those doctors. Then meet them and evaluate how well you two interact. Second opinions can also be helpful. There are conservative doctors and there are assertive ones. Only you can be the judge as to what kind of doctor is right for you.

You will be telling your doctor important information about your disease ranging from symptoms to how long ago the exposure was and how much time were you exposed to asbestos or asbestos-related substance. After the initial consultation the doctor may feel it necessary for you to undergo some scans like the Chest CT scan or biopsy, contingent on the type of mesothelioma cancer you have. Basically, there are three types of mesothelioma cancer. Pleural lungs, peritoneal (abdominal) and pericardial (heart), any of these can develop within you. As soon as your doctor has arrived at a definite analysis, you will know what type of mesothelioma cancer you have, at what stage and if the cancer has metastasized. Treatments are then scheduled. Whatever the treatments are, your doctor will recommend what is appropriate for you in considering how far along the cancer has progressed.

Having a good effective relationship with your doctor is key to your treatment. Being able to communicate properly with each other makes a big difference in your ability to deal with your cancer. Remember not to leave everything to your doctor. You also have responsibilities. Telling the doctor honestly how you feel, your opinions, and your questions will educate you about your illness. With recent research and discoveries, patients who undergo treatment are experiencing longer remissions than ever before. Mesothelioma patients with proper doctor care are living for longer periods of time.

Reference: Faithe Thomas,

Malignant Versus Benign Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is one of the diseases that are related to asbestos exposure, most of the time the type of mesothelioma seen is the Malignant Mesothelioma. However rarely mesothelioma victims can develop a milder tumor called Benign Mesothelioma. Although both are tumor diseases that are caused by exposure to asbestos, there are marked differences between the two types of mesothelioma:
- Benign Mesothelioma has a short latency period in contrast to the malignant type which typically has a very long latency period. The symptoms of the malignant variant show up about 20 -50 years after exposure to asbestos while the symptoms of the benign type show up few years after exposure.-

- Tumors cells of the malignant type can invade nearby tissues and organs causing serious damage while tumor cells of the benign type do not invade nearby tissue and cells.

- Tumor cells from the malignant mesothelioma can spread {metastases}via blood stream or lymphatic to distant locations in the body to cause various serious complications while tumor cells of the benign type do not spread to distant locations, they remain localized to their primary site. -

- Although both forms of mesothelioma share the symptoms of cough, chest pain and difficulty in breathing , the malignant type also presents with other symptoms like fever, weight loss, night sweats, anemia amongst others.-

- Imaging tests like chest x-ray, MRI scan and CT scans are used to diagnose both the malignant and benign form of the disease.

- Benign Mesothelioma is treated by surgery alone while malignant mesothelioma is treated by different modes of treatment including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy.-

- The benign form mesothelioma responds very well to treatment with about 90% of treated cases resolving completely with nil re occurrence of symptoms unlike the malignant form which has a very poor rate of recovery with only about 9 - 10 % of cases surviving up to 5 years even after receiving the best treatment.

Reference:Bello Kamorudeen http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

6 Important Nutritional Tips For Mesothelioma Patients.

Although mesothelioma is not a cancer that is related to poor nutrition, improving nutritional intake can help mesothelioma cancer patients fight the progressive disease. These are some tips on the right kind of nutrition to eat if you are fighting mesothelioma:
1-It is foundationally important to eat a balanced and healthy diet to help prevent cancer and other health problems. Although there is some debate as to exactly which foods are best in certain quantities, the basic guidelines for a healthy diet are relatively simple; avoid all junk foods, eat in moderation, and pay attention to the effects of various foods on the body.

2-It is important to eat the most nutrient-dense calories possible, rather than ingesting calories from fast food, sweets or other processed foods that clog the lymphatic system and impede metabolism and immune system function. 3- It is important eat a diet heavy in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, supplementing with dairy and healthy carbohydrates (such as whole wheat pastas and potatoes).

4- Vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, lipids (fats) and proteins all play major roles in a healthy human body. Without the right balance of nutrients the body cannot effectively fight cancer. In addition, malnutrition causes the body to be susceptible to infection. Many cancer patients do not pass away from the cancer itself, but rather a medical condition stemming from the body's weakened condition.

5-One of the most common side effects of cancer and cancer treatment is nausea. There are a number of dietary changes you can make to help this problem. Dry grain products like crackers and toast can help calm an upset stomach. Bland foods will also help with nausea, as well as acid reflux problems.

6-Another common characteristic found in cancer patients is low white blood cell count, which increases the chance of contracting an infection. To avoid this side effect, a number of changes can be made in the foods you ingest. It is most important to avoid bacteria, which is common in foods that are damaged or not prepared well. Avoid buffets when eating out, wash your hands before preparing meals, avoid raw meats and fish (like sushi), and throw away any foods that are bruised or damaged.

Although these nutritional principles will help in fighting the cancer, the mesothelioma victim should seek to go for other forms of well known therapies to complement the effort of following a proper nutrition

Reference:Bello Kamorudeen.http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com

Mesothelioma Lawsuit -What are the six stages of a mesothelioma lawsuit?

A diagnosis of mesothelioma places enormous financial burden on the victim, the patient will have to settle huge medical bills, the patient may also have to pay high transportation money to get to the major hospitals where the specialized medical personnel who can handle mesothelioma usually work as most of these hospitals are usually situated only in the major towns. The debilitating nature of these diseases often makes the patients too weak to engage in any serious work activity to get money to cater for them.
Most times the only way by which these patients can get the money they need is by seeking for compensation by filing lawsuits against the companies that were responsible for their exposure to the asbestos fibers that caused their disease. If you have developed asbestos related disease you should get in contact with an expert mesothelioma lawyer immediately. If you pursue legal action you stand a good chance of receiving the compensation you need badly. As such, those inflicted with asbestos-induced diseases should contact a lawyer immediately. By filing a lawsuit against those responsible for your medical condition, you will not only have the opportunity to be compensated, but your case will help bring justice to future asbestos-related cases as well. You need to know the different stages of the lawsuit that you are likely to pass through. There are 6 main different stages of a mesothelioma lawsuit:

1- The first stage is the stage of filing the lawsuit with a competent court of law. The court will then contact the defendant with your claim.

2- The second stage is the stage of case response when the defendant company will give a response to your claim.

3- The third stage is the stage of case discovery. During this stage the lawyers on either side will gather information concerning the case. The victim will be interviewed by the defendants lawyers, this interview might take place in the home of the victim. This interview might be recorded on a video tape.

4- The fourth stage is the setting of the trial date.

5- The fifth stage is the stage of attempted out of court settlement, the defendants lawyers might opt to settle out of court but the amount of money they usually offer at first is usually too small compared to what you stand to get if your pursue a successful trial. As the trial progresses however their lawyer might come back with a better offer.

6- The sixth stage is the trial process itself, the patient is usually not required to come to court throughout the trial process. It is imperative that you get an experienced mesothelioma lawyer who will be able to explain every step of the lawsuit to you as the case progresses, you should be carried along every step of the way.


Reference:Bello Kamorudeen.http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com