Can Unexplained Pleural Effusion be a Warning Sign for Mesothelioma?
Exposure to asbestos can cause various serious cancers. Asbestos is a lightweight, flexible mineral once used in a wide range of commercial products because of its heat-resistant properties. Manufacturers once used asbestos in insulation, floor tiles, drywall, other construction materials, brake linings, and fire-retardant clothing. Unfortunately, when these materials break down through fire, erosion, or other destruction, they release asbestos into the air or water, where it can be inhaled or ingested by people. Exposure to asbestos, a known carcinogen, can cause mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer, and other chronic health conditions.
What is Mesothelioma?
Malignant mesothelioma is a deadly cancer originating in mesothelial cells on the surface of the thin lining covering the internal organs and lungs. The pleural lining of the lungs is the most common origin site for this aggressive cancer. Malignant pleural mesothelioma often presents with pleural effusion or water on the lungs, chest wall pain, and thickening of the pleural lining. However, it can be difficult to make a diagnosis quickly because it can take years for serious symptoms to appear, and because some of the symptoms of mesothelioma can also be symptomatic of other cancers. However, a recent case study suggests that pleural effusion may be an early warning sign for mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Case Study
The case study, published by Cureus Journal of Medical Science, discusses the case of a 55-year-old man with 12 years of asbestos exposure at work. He initially presented with pleural effusion and chest wall pain, but his pleural biopsy was negative. He had been in the hospital one year before with sharp chest pain on his left side. When he returned for a follow-up 11 months later, he had “sharp and permanent left chest pain.” A chest CT scan revealed a thickening of the pleura and metastasis. He was ultimately diagnosed with
malignant epithelioid mesothelioma.Sadly, it can take 10 to 30 years after asbestos exposure for mesothelioma symptoms to appear, so doctors may not readily diagnose this rare disease. But research suggests that health care providers should consider a mesothelioma diagnosis when a patient with past exposure presents with pleural effusion and chest pain.
You Need Experienced Legal Guidance
If you or someone you love is facing a mesothelioma diagnosis after asbestos exposure, you may be entitled to compensation. You need the skilled guidance of a lawyer with experience handling mesothelioma cases, and the Madeksho Law Firm can help. Call us at 1-888-910-MESO (6376) or contact us online to schedule your consultation. Your consultation is free, and there's never a charge unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
