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Mesothelioma and Asbestosis There are a few key differences between mesothelioma and asbestosis despite the fact both diseases result from asbestos exposure. Most importantly, mesothelioma can be an illness that causes cancer, while asbestosis is not. Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the lining of specific organs and tissues, such as those that cover the lung (pleura) or the membrane that is found in the abdominal cavity (peritoneum). It can be difficult to diagnose mesothelioma because symptoms are similar to those of other diseases. This is due to the lengthy time of latency for asbestos-related diseases. Symptoms Mesothelioma, also referred to as mesothelioma is a cancerous tumor that is a threat to the tissue that surrounds organs and cavities inside the body. It usually begins in the lungs but can also develop in other areas of the body such as the stomach, the heart, and the abdomen. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. There are many typical symptoms like chest pain weight loss, persistent coughing, and difficulty breathing. People with mesothelioma often suffer from anemia and fatigue as well. Metastatic mesothelioma happens when the cancer spreads to other areas of your body. It is crucial to consult a doctor if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above. Asbestosis is typically caused by years of exposure to asbestos fibres and dust. It is a slow-moving illness and because of its long latency period, most people don't even know they have it until decades after their exposure. Asbestosis isn't as harmful as mesothelioma because it isn't a cancerous condition. However, it can still cause lung problems and respiratory problems. Both mesothelioma and asbestosis can be caused by asbestos exposure. The main difference between these two diseases is mesothelioma, which is a malignant tumor that grows within the mesothelium. Asbestosis is not. A person suffering from pleural cancer can experience a constant cough that is not productive and chest pain. Patients may have difficulty swallowing and their fingers may change shape. This is called clubbing. Some pleural mesothelioma patients also have the formation of fluid in the abdomen known as anascites. Mesothelioma treatment is more aggressive and focuses on prolonging the life time. However, the method for treating asbestosis is less intensive. Asbestosis treatment is intended to improve quality of life and relieve symptoms. This involves draining the fluid from the chest, which is called thoracentesis. It also involves using medications to manage pain. Mesothelioma patients are not eligible for lung transplants for asbestosis-related cases. Mesothelioma patients can also receive palliative care, which is focused on managing symptoms and improving the quality of life. Diagnosis Inhaling asbestos fibres can trigger various symptoms, including cough, shortness of breath and fatigue. These symptoms can be difficult to identify because they often mimic other conditions. Asbestosis is a progressive lung disease that causes scarring of the respiratory tract and lungs making it more difficult to breathe. It can also affect other organs, causing abdominal discomfort, fluid buildup and changes in the toe and finger shape (finger clubbing). Both mesothelioma (a cancerous condition) and asbestosis are caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a collection of minerals that are made up of microscopic fibers. The exposure to asbestos is the cause of both conditions, however each one has its own set of symptoms and a different time of latency. Mesothelioma, which is a rare type of cancer, develops within the mesothelium, an outer layer of protection that surrounds certain organs and cavities within the body. It is found in the abdomen, lungs and the heart. Mesothelioma can form more easily if a person has been exposed to asbestos multiple times. To diagnose mesothelioma in patients, doctors usually order chest Xrays and CT scans to look for visual signs of abnormalities in the lungs. They may also take a biopsy to gain a better understanding of the type of mesothelioma the patient has. There are many methods to conduct a mesothelium biopsies such as a needle biopsy, bronchoscopy, or video-assisted surgery. The type of biopsy needed will depend on the location where mesothelioma has been found and what part of the lining of the pleura it is located in. The symptoms of the patient and their exposure history can also be used to determine the presence of mesothelioma. Based on the type of mesothelioma that is present, patients may be treated with chemotherapy or radiation to alleviate symptoms. In certain cases, surgery can be used to remove the affected tissue and reduce the size of the tumors. At present, there is no cure available for mesothelioma, but patients can receive palliative treatments to improve quality of life. Mesothelioma and asbestosis both carry the potential for recurrence, even after treatment is completed. It is therefore essential to schedule regular follow-up visits. This is where mesothelioma specialists can detect any recurrences and track the progression of the disease. Treatment Asbestos exposure is a cause of both mesothelioma as well as asbestosis. They are incurable, but treatments can prolong the life of patients for a long time. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that occurs in the mesothelium which lines the lungs as well as the chest cavity and abdomen. Mesothelioma is distinct from lung cancer, but the symptoms are often similar. Asbestosis, a less common condition that is caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers in the air. They irritate lung tissue and cause scarring that could restrict breathing. Inhalation of asbestos also increases the risk of developing lung infections. Smoking makes the condition progress faster. A doctor will examine the patient and listen to their lungs when asbestosis is identified. In certain instances, the doctor will order lung-function tests and chest X-rays. If mesothelioma is suspected it is recommended that a biopsy be taken from the pleural mesothelium and examined in a laboratory. The procedure involves inserting a needle into the abdomen, chest or groin, and removing a small amount fluid and then examining that fluid for signs of malignant cell. Based on washington asbestos law firm of cancer of cancer, either surgery or chemotherapy can be recommended. The removal of asbestos-laden tissue (known as pleurectomy or decortication) can enhance a patient's quality of life for patients suffering from severe asbestosis and reduce the severity of the complications. A doctor can also take the fluid out of the chest (a procedure called thoracentesis) and in some cases perform a surgical procedure called pleurodesis to ease breathing problems caused asbestosis or other conditions. Regular follow-up appointments and pulmonary rehab exercises can help patients deal with breathing difficulties and other symptoms in addition to pain relief therapies. They can also prescribe oxygen therapy and in certain cases they may recommend a lung transplant. Lung disease caused by asbestos are at a high risk of developing other health issues including cancer and heart disease. To lower the risk, they should stop smoking and keep up-to-date with vaccines for influenza and pneumonia. They should also consult their doctor right away when they experience coughing, shortness of breath or fever. Prognosis The inhalation of asbestos fibers triggers mesothelioma as well as a lung condition called asbestosis. Both diseases share similar symptoms, including chest pain, persistent cough and shortness of breath. Mesothelioma, however is a cancer whereas asbestosis isn't. Both asbestosis and mesothelioma are incurable diseases that can take years to develop. The prognosis of mesothelioma varies on a variety of factors, including the stage, location and the type of cells. Epithelioid mesothelioma, which is the most common type has a higher chance of success than biphasic and sarcomatoid kinds. The prognosis of mesothelioma can be affected by the patient's gender and age. Females and younger patients tend to have a better prognosis than men. The time of latency is an important factor in determining mesothelioma prognosis. The longer a person is exposed to asbestos the greater their chances of developing symptoms. Typically, the latency period for mesothelioma varies between 10 and 50 years after exposure. Because mesothelioma is a rare cancer it can be difficult to recognize. This is particularly relevant in the initial stages of the disease, when symptoms are less severe and could be mistaken for other diseases. Mesothelioma cells may resemble the cells of other types of lung disease and cancer, so it is important for doctors to thoroughly examine pathology reports and request an additional opinion from a different laboratory. Both asbestosis and mesothelioma can cause a buildup of fluid in the lungs known as an Pleural effusion. Pleural effusions can be a sign of both diseases however they are not life-threatening. The symptoms of asbestosis are like those of other lung diseases, like chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD). Asbestosis is not a cancer and does not spread throughout the body like mesothelioma can. Asbestosis sufferers may continue to have symptoms and eventually need oxygen therapy. Contact an advocate for patients if you or someone you love is unsure about mesothelioma or asbestosis symptoms. We can help you find a doctor who can diagnose and prescribe a treatment plan.