What are the 3 types of mesothelioma?

On Behalf of | Nov 1, 2016 | Workers' Compensation |

When Illinois workers are continually exposed to asbestos on the job, the chances of contracting an asbestos-related disease are high. In fact, mesothelioma is probably the most common form of diseases in this category. Mesothelioma usually appears in three different forms: pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma and pericardial mesothelioma.

Pleural mesothelioma represents approximately 75 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses. It relates to damage to the lining of one’s lungs. Recent medical advancements have improved the results for patients with pleural mesothelioma.

Peritoneal mesothelioma represents approximately 10 to 20 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses. It causes problems for the abdominal cavities of patients. Treatment for this condition usually involve surgery and heated chemotherapy.

Pericardial mesothelioma represents approximately 1 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses. This condition affects the lining of the heart and it is usually the most difficult to treat since it affects a very sensitive location in the body. In addition to pericardial, another very rare type of mesothelioma affects the testicles. Testicular mesothelioma represents under 1 percent of cases.

Mesothelioma is a potentially fatal work-related disease. As it progresses, workers may endure a great deal of pain and suffering, be unable to perform their job duties and eventually may not be able to take care of their daily life needs without assistance. Because the financial costs associated with required medical care and not being able to work can be high, workers with mesothelioma are encouraged to seek workers’ compensation claims. A successfully navigated workers’ compensation claim can be a way for workers to receive money to pay for lost wages, medical care and more.

Source: asbestos.com, “Mesothelioma,” accessed Nov. 01, 2016

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