| Frequently asked questions |
|
|
|
| Home » Faqs |
| Pericardial mesothelioma-FAQs |
What is Pericardial Mesothelioma?
Pericardial Mesothelioma is the mesothelioma of the pericardium region. This form of mesothelioma is the rarest form of mesothelioma. The mesothelium surrounding the heart region is afflicted by the cancer in this form of mesothelioma.
What are the cuases of Pericardial Mesothelioma?
Although there is no direct relation between the pericardial mesothelioma and exposure to asbestos, still it is widely held that asbestos is the primary reason behind this form of mesothelioma. It is generally believed that the asbestos particles that are present in the lungs travel to the pericardial region via bloodstream. Once there, they start interfering with the functioning of the cells in the mesothelium. Exactly how they do it is still a matter under investigation. This results in the unregulated growth of the mesothelium cells that finally culminates in the formation of cancerous tissues.
Why Pericardial Mesothelioma is difficult to detect in the earlier stages?
The asbestos particles that are mainly responsible for the development of mesothelioma stay dormant for a very long time. Once a person has been exposed to asbestos particles, it might take more than 30 years for the person to show some signs of mesothelioma. By that time the cancer has already reached its later stages.
What are the symptoms of the Pericardial mesothelioma?
The symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma are very much similar to that of other cardiac problems. As a result it becomes quite difficult to diagnose pericardial mesothelioma. Some of the symptoms that might indicate the presence of this cancer are difficulty in breathing even while at rest, chest pain, sweat at night and fever, heart palpitations and irregular heartbeats.
How can Pericardial Mesothelioma be diagnosed?
An accurate diagnosis of pericardial mesothelioma is very difficult as no symptoms are specific to it. Howsoever when being diagnosed for pericardial mesothelioma, the patient’s complete medical history, his physical condition and his history of exposure to asbestos is verified. Tests are also carried out to verify the exact location of the tumor. Also a biopsy is conducted to ratify the presence of pericardial mesothelioma.
What are the treatments available for Pericardial Mesothelioma?
Since Pericardial Mesothelioma is diagnosed only in the later stages thus its prognosis is almost always negative. However in some rare cases the surgery is performed to remove the cancerous tissue. Other forms of treatments that might be resorted to are radiation therapy, and exposing the cancerous tissue directly to the radioactive material. All the cases involve an element of risk because of the proximity of the heart and the lungs.
Can I be compensated if I am diagnosed with Pericardial Mesothelioma?
If the reason for your developing pericardial mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos at the work place where you were not apprised about the potential threat, then you can easily file a lawsuit against your employer and seek compensation for medical charges as well as the mental harassment.
|
|