If you have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma or Lung Cancer you could be entitled to significant compensation from both the Asbestos Trust Funds and asbestos product manufactures.
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If you have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma or Lung Cancer you could be entitled to significant compensation from both the Asbestos Trust Funds and asbestos product manufactures.
Contact us now for a FREE consultation.
Free Case Review
Malignant pleural mesothelioma is rare but is a serious cancer that affects the pleura, the thin lining that surrounds the lungs.
Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the abdominal cavity. Less often, mesothelioma also affects the lining of the heart or testicles. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common of these types.
It is almost exclusively caused by being exposed to asbestos, with microscopic asbestos fibers becoming lodged in lung tissue, leading to inflammation, scarring, and eventually, the development of cancerous cells.
This is the most common form of mesothelioma, accounting for 80-90% of all diagnosed cases.
Because of the very long latency period, symptoms often do not appear until 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure.
Unfortunately, pleural mesothelioma is typically diagnosed in its later stages, making treatment more challenging.
We’ll explore the symptoms and causes of pleural mesothelioma, the typical treatment approach, and more important information for people with the disease.
There are three primary cell types of pleural malignant mesothelioma, each with different characteristics and treatment responses.
The most common subtype makes up about 70% of cases.
Characterized by uniform, structured cancer cells that spread more slowly.
It is the best responder to treatment, offering a longer life expectancy compared to other forms.
The rarest and most aggressive form of pleural mesothelioma.
Composed of spindle-shaped cells that spread rapidly, making it resistant to most treatments.
Least favorable prognosis, with limited treatment options.
A combination of epithelioid and sarcomatoid cells.
Prognosis and treatment success depend on the ratio of cell types—patients with more epithelioid cells tend to respond better to therapy.
Understanding the types of malignant mesothelioma a patient has is critical to developing an effective treatment plan.
If you or a loved one has received a mesothelioma diagnosis, consulting with a specialist can help determine the best course of action.
Exposure to asbestos, a mineral once widely used in industries like construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties, is the leading cause of pleural mesothelioma.
When asbestos-containing materials become disturbed, tiny microscopic fibers go airborne.
Once that happens, they can be inhaled or swallowed, embedding themselves in the pleura (lung lining).
Over time, these fibers trigger chronic inflammation, scarring, and genetic mutations, leading to the uncontrolled cell growth that defines mesothelioma.
The disease has an exceptionally long latency period, with symptoms often emerging decades after exposure—typically 20 to 50 years later.
Certain industries have historically put workers at higher risk of asbestos exposure, including:
Construction and demolition workers handling insulation, roofing, and cement.
Shipyard workers exposed to asbestos insulation on pipes and boilers.
Asbestos miners and manufacturers who worked directly with the raw material.
Firefighters and military veterans, particularly those serving on Navy ships or in older buildings containing asbestos.
Even those who never worked directly with asbestos can still develop pleural mesothelioma due to secondary (or secondhand) exposure.
Household Exposure – Workers who handled asbestos on the job often unknowingly brought contaminated fibers home on their clothing, shoes, and hair, exposing family members.
Environmental Exposure – Some people develop mesothelioma after living near asbestos mines, processing plants, or factories where asbestos was used or produced.
While asbestos exposure is the primary known cause, other factors may increase the risk of developing pleural mesothelioma.
Genetic Predisposition – Research suggests that some individuals have a higher genetic susceptibility to mesothelioma, particularly those with a BAP1 gene mutation. This mutation may make some people more vulnerable to developing cancer after asbestos exposure.
Radiation Exposure – In rare cases, individuals who have had radiation therapy to the chest for other cancers may develop pleural mesothelioma later in life.
Understanding these risk factors can help with early detection and prevention efforts.
If you or a loved one has a history of asbestos exposure, it’s crucial to monitor for symptoms and seek medical evaluation from a mesothelioma specialist.
Otherwise, it’s important to know that pleural mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure.
The main way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid asbestos.
Often, the more exposure someone has had to asbestos over their lifetime, the greater their risk of developing mesothelioma.
Pleural mesothelioma symptoms often develop gradually and may not appear until decades after asbestos exposure.
Because early symptoms can mimic common respiratory conditions, the disease is frequently misdiagnosed, delaying proper treatment.
Recognizing the warning signs early can help patients receive specialized care sooner.
One of the first signs of pleural mesothelioma is difficulty breathing due to tumors developing in the pleura (lung lining). Early respiratory symptoms include:
A persistent cough that doesn’t improve with medication.
Shortness of breath, even during mild activity.
Wheezing or hoarseness, often mistaken for allergies or a cold
As mesothelioma progresses, it can cause symptoms related to inflammation and fluid buildup (pleural effusion) in the chest cavity, leading to:
Sharp or persistent chest pain, which may worsen when breathing deeply.
Pain in the lower back or shoulder as the cancer spreads.
Many people ignore these early signs, attributing them to aging, infections, or lung conditions.
However, if these symptoms persist—especially in individuals with a history of asbestos exposure—a medical evaluation is essential.
As the disease spreads, it affects more than just the lungs. Patients often experience:
Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite.
Severe fatigue and weakness.
Fever and night sweats are caused by the body’s immune response to cancer.
In later stages, tumors may compress nearby organs and blood vessels, leading to additional complications such as:
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) if the cancer spreads to the esophagus.
Swollen face or arms, caused by pressure on major blood vessels
Because pleural mesothelioma symptoms overlap with other respiratory diseases, it is frequently misdiagnosed as:
Pneumonia or bronchitis, due to coughing and fluid buildup.
Lung cancer and bronchiectasis are both diseases that affect the lungs and pleura.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), particularly in former smokers.
Since symptoms may not be apparent until late-stage pleural mesothelioma, if someone knows they have a history of asbestos exposure, they should let their healthcare provider know. They can monitor them and look for red flags that occur earlier, sometimes well before mesothelioma.
One example is pleural plaques. They usually occur 20 to 30 years after you’re exposed to asbestos, and they’re often benign, requiring no treatment. Pleural plaques are thickened pleura tissue, and while you can live for many years without them causing problems, they can be a sign of asbestos exposure that your healthcare provider can monitor.
Diagnosing pleural mesothelioma is complex because its symptoms closely resemble those of other lung diseases, such as pneumonia, lung cancer, and COPD.
A definitive diagnosis needs a combination of imaging tests, biopsy procedures, and histological analysis to confirm the presence of mesothelioma and determine its specific cell type.
Doctors typically begin with imaging tests to identify signs of pleural thickening, tumors, and fluid buildup.
First-line diagnostic tools to detect pleural effusion (fluid buildup) and other abnormalities in the lung lining linked to mesothelioma and its signs and symptoms.
While not definitive for mesothelioma, abnormal findings may prompt further testing.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scans – These provide detailed cross-sectional images of the chest, helping to determine tumor size, location, and potential spread to nearby organs.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scans – Used to detect metastasis by identifying areas of increased metabolic activity, which may indicate cancer spread.
A biopsy is required for a definitive diagnosis. This involves removing a tissue sample for laboratory analysis.
This is a minimally invasive procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is put into the chest to collect tissue samples.
Often preferred because it provides a clear view of the pleura and allows for precise sample collection.
A less invasive method, involving the insertion of a thin needle through the chest wall to extract cells.
Used when tumors are in easily accessible locations but may not provide enough tissue for a conclusive diagnosis.
The most definitive method for diagnosing mesothelioma.
Requires open surgery (thoracotomy or VATS) to collect larger tissue samples when other biopsies are inconclusive.
Once a biopsy is performed, pathologists analyze the tissue sample to identify the specific cell type of mesothelioma.
Epithelioid Mesothelioma – The most common and treatable form.
Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma – The most aggressive and hardest to treat.
Biphasic Mesothelioma – A mix of both epithelioid and sarcomatoid cells, with prognosis depending on the dominant type.
Uses specialized stains and biomarkers to confirm mesothelioma.
Helps distinguish mesothelioma from lung cancer or other conditions
Because pleural mesothelioma is often diagnosed in later stages, early detection through advanced imaging and biopsy procedures can improve treatment options and prognosis.
Staging determines the extent of pleural mesothelioma, guiding treatment decisions and predicting prognosis.
Since mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer, staging helps doctors assess how far the disease has spread and whether surgery is a viable option.
There are two primary staging systems used to classify pleural mesothelioma:
TNM System – The most widely used system, focusing on:
Tumor (T): Size and extent of the primary tumor.
Node (N): Whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Metastasis (M): If cancer has spread to distant organs.
Brigham System – Used primarily to determine whether the tumor can be surgically removed (resectable).
Cancer is confined to the pleura (lung lining) and has not spread to lymph nodes.
The best prognosis, with surgery being a potential treatment option.
The tumor has spread to lymph nodes located nearby but remains within the pleura.
Surgery may still be an option, often combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Cancer extends beyond the pleura, affecting neighboring structures like the diaphragm, chest wall, or pericardium (heart lining).
Lymph nodes are involved, and surgical options become limited
The most advanced stage, where cancer has spread to distant organs like the liver, bones, or brain.
Treatment focuses primarily on symptom management and improving quality of life through palliative care.
Early-stage pleural mesothelioma offers more treatment options, including surgery.
At the same time, the later stages require a focus on symptom relief and quality of life as part of the course of treatment.
The approaches used to treat pleural mesothelioma depend on factors such as the cancer stage, cell type, and overall health.
While there is no cure, advances in surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and emerging therapies offer hope for extended survival to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Since pleural mesothelioma is a complicated cancer, a multidisciplinary approach involving specialized pleural mesothelioma doctors is crucial for developing a personalized treatment plan.
Surgery is an option for early-stage pleural mesothelioma patients whose cancer has not spread extensively. The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as possible to slow disease progression.
A radical surgical procedure involving the removal of:
An entire lung
The diaphragm
Part of the pericardium (heart lining)
Typically performed on healthy patients who can withstand major surgery.
It can extend survival with this common type of mesothelioma but comes with significant risks and recovery challenges.
A lung-sparing surgery that removes:
Tumors from the pleura
Affected lung lining and surrounding tissue
Less invasive than EPP, with a shorter recovery time and fewer complications.
Often preferred for patients who cannot tolerate lung removal.
Chemotherapy is the treatment most commonly used for pleural mesothelioma and is often used alone or alongside surgery and radiation.
The FDA-approved combination of pemetrexed (Alimta) and cisplatin is the standard first-line chemotherapy.
This combination helps shrink tumors and slow cancer progression.
Side effects may include nausea, fatigue, and suppressed immune function.
Newer drugs are currently being developed to target specific cancer pathways, making treatments more precise
Unlike traditional chemotherapy, these therapies aim to block tumor growth with fewer side effects.
Targeted therapy is currently available through clinical trials.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams that can kill cancerous cells. It is often used in combination with surgery or as palliative care.
Focused radiation that targets tumors while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
It can be used following surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells.
Used to reduce pain, control fluid buildup (pleural effusion), and improve breathing.
Helps relieve chest discomfort caused by tumor pressure.
Researchers are actively exploring new therapies that could improve survival rates for pleural mesothelioma patients and relieve symptoms compared to currently available treatment options.
Checkpoint inhibitors, such as Keytruda (pembrolizumab) and Opdivo (nivolumab), help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
FDA-approved for some mesothelioma patients and available in clinical trials.
Showing promising results in extending survival for some patients.
The experimental approach focused on correcting faulty genes that contribute to cancer growth.
It’s still in early-stage research but could offer a revolutionary treatment option in the future.
Choosing the best treatment for pleural mesothelioma depends on factors such as the cancer stage, cell type, and overall health.
A specialized mesothelioma team can help determine the most effective combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and emerging treatments.
Seeking care from a mesothelioma expert can provide access to the latest advancements and clinical trials.
The earlier mesothelioma is diagnosed, the more treatment options are available.
Patients diagnosed in Stage I or II often qualify for surgery, which can extend survival.
Unfortunately, mesothelioma is very often diagnosed in later stages, making early detection through regular screenings for high-risk individuals critical.
Younger, healthier patients generally tolerate aggressive treatments better and may have longer survival times.
Someone who has pre-existing conditions or weakened immune systems may not be a candidate for certain intensive therapies.
Response to treatment varies—some patients benefit from chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or clinical trials, while others may see limited results.
A pleural mesothelioma diagnosis comes with a serious prognosis, but survival rates vary based on factors like cancer stage, cell type, and overall patient health.
While the disease is aggressive, advances in treatment options and early detection can help some patients live longer, and this can improve the prognosis for pleural mesothelioma.
The median survival for pleural mesothelioma is 12 to 18 months after diagnosis.
Early-stage patients (Stage I or II) who qualify for surgery combined with chemotherapy may survive several years longer.
Late-stage patients (Stage III or IV) typically have fewer treatment options, and care often focuses on symptom management and quality of life.
Cell type also plays a role—patients with epithelioid mesothelioma tend to respond better to treatment than those with sarcomatoid or biphasic mesothelioma.
While mesothelioma remains a challenging disease, advancements in immunotherapy, targeted treatments, and clinical trials offer new hope.
Working with a mesothelioma specialist ensures access to the most effective and personalized treatment options.
Since asbestos exposure is the main cause of pleural mesothelioma, the best way to reduce risk is through strict safety measures in the workplace, at home, and in the environment.
Awareness and proper handling of asbestos-containing materials can help prevent exposure and protect future generations.
Occupational asbestos exposure remains a significant risk for workers in construction, shipbuilding, and industrial settings. Pleural mesothelioma develops largely because of work exposures.
To reduce exposure:
Employers must follow OSHA and EPA regulations on asbestos handling.
Workers should wear protective gear, such as respirators and disposable clothing, when working around asbestos.
Asbestos-containing materials should be properly removed and disposed of to prevent fiber release.
Older homes may contain asbestos in insulation, floor tiles, and roofing materials. To minimize risk:
Do not disturb suspected asbestos—cutting, sanding, or drilling can release harmful fibers.
If asbestos is present, hire a licensed abatement professional for safe removal.
Many people remain unaware of asbestos-related dangers.
Public education campaigns can inform homeowners, workers, and communities about asbestos risks and safety protocols.
Knowing how to identify and avoid asbestos exposure can help prevent future cases of pleural mesothelioma.
The prognosis is usually poor for pleural mesothelioma, with a median survival of 8-14 months and a five-year survival rate of 20% for early cases with tumors that remain localized. For all stages combined, five-year survival is 12%, but some patients have lived ten years or more with treatment.
The difficulty with pleural mesothelioma is that it tends to be resistant to current therapies, and it progresses quickly.
Connecting with others who understand the challenges of mesothelioma can provide emotional relief and practical guidance.
Support groups are a safe place to share experiences, discuss treatment options, and receive encouragement from others facing similar struggles.
Mesothelioma-specific support communities exist both online and in-person, allowing patients and caregivers to connect from anywhere.
Organizations like the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF) and the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) provide forums, virtual meetings, and educational resources.
Support groups also help caregivers navigate their loved one’s illness and find support for themselves.
Mesothelioma is a rare, complex disease, so seeking treatment at a specialized cancer center is crucial.
These centers have oncologists, surgeons, and researchers with expertise in the latest treatments and clinical trials.
Leading facilities, such as MD Anderson Cancer Center, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and the Mayo Clinic, offer advanced therapies, surgical options, and experimental treatments.
Patients treated at mesothelioma-focused centers often have better outcomes due to access to cutting-edge research and multidisciplinary care teams
The cost of mesothelioma treatment can be significant, but several assistance programs can help:
Legal compensation – Patients exposed to asbestos may qualify for mesothelioma settlements, asbestos trust funds, or VA benefits.
Nonprofit organizations offer grants and financial aid for medical expenses, travel costs, and in-home care.
Mental health counseling – Coping with mesothelioma can be emotionally challenging, and supportive counseling services are available to help patients and families manage stress, anxiety, and grief.
Navigating a mesothelioma diagnosis is not easy, but seeking support, expert care, and financial resources can provide relief and improve the quality of life.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed, reaching out to specialized treatment centers and mesothelioma support organizations can help ensure you receive the best care possible
Pleural mesothelioma is primarily caused by asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma affects people who were exposed years ago to it through their occupations.
When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they become lodged in the pleura (the lining of the lungs), causing inflammation and cellular mutations over time.
The disease has a long latency perio
Pleural mesothelioma symptoms may be mild at first and can be mistaken for common respiratory conditions. Early warning signs of mesothelioma tumors include:
A persistent cough that doesn’t go away.
Shortness of breath, even during mild activity.
Chest pain, often caused by fluid buildup in the pleura.
Fatigue and unexplained weight loss.
Diagnosis involves multiple tests to confirm the presence of mesothelioma and determine its stage:
Imaging tests – X-rays, CT scans, and PET scans help detect abnormalities and tumor spread.
Biopsy – A tissue sample is taken through procedures like thoracoscopy or needle biopsy.
Histological analysis – A pathologist examines the cells to differentiate between mesothelioma and other cancers.
There is no definitive cure for pleural mesothelioma, but treatment options can extend survival and improve the quality of life.
Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation may benefit early-stage patients, while newer treatments like immunotherapy and targeted therapies show promising results.
Surgery – Procedures like extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) or pleurectomy/decortication (P/D) aim to remove tumors and affected tissue.
Chemotherapy – Standard drugs like pemetrexed and cisplatin help slow tumor growth.
Radiation therapy can shrink tumors and manage pain.
Immunotherapy – Drugs like Keytruda (pembrolizumab) help the immune system fight cancer.
Clinical trials – Experimental treatments and targeted therapies may offer new hope for patients.
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