Mesothelioma Lawyers - Closer Look at Mesothelioma

A Close Look at Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma: A cancer of the cells that make up the lining around the outside of the lungs and inside of the ribs (pleura), or around the abdominal organs (peritoneum)

Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of Mesothelioma. After asbestos fibers are breathed in, they travel to the ends of small air passages and reach the pleura where they cause physical damage to mesothelial cells that may result in cancer. In addition, they also cause injury to lung cells that can result in lung cancer and/or asbestosis (replacement of lung tissue by scar tissue). If swallowed, these fibers can reach the abdominal cavity where they have a role in causing peritoneal mesothelioma. About three-fourths of mesothelioma occurrences start in the chest cavity and is known as pleural mesothelioma. Another 10% to 20% begin in the abdomen and is called peritoneal mesothelioma. Pericardial mesothelioma, starting in the cavity around the heart, is very rare.

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer which can result from even small amounts of asbestos exposure. Although the majority of cases of Mesothelioma are reported from workers who came in direct contact with asbestos, there have been cases of family members being diagnosed after washing their husband's work clothes and other forms of secondary contact. There are an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 new cases per year of mesothelioma in the United States, and this figure appears to be increasing.

The Mesothelioma Lawyers Network

Disclaimer: The Mesothelioma Lawyers Network services all 50 states including Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, DC, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming. This does not mean, however, that all mesothelioma cases will be accepted and we reserve the right to decline any representation. This site only provides information about mesothelioma and asbestos, it is not meant to be taken as legal advice. Click here for more. This website is not intended for viewing or usage by European Union citizens.