MALIGNANT PLEURAL MESOTHELIOMA

The world’s deadliest asbestos-related cancer

There are several types of mesothelioma, and each is primarily caused by occupational asbestos exposure. The cancer usually develops in the pleural lining of the lungs, and is called “malignant pleural mesothelioma.”

Malignant pleural mesothelioma

May 3, 2010 - Mesothelioma is an asbestos-related cancer of the protective lining of the chest and abdomen, known as the mesothelium.

The function of the mesothelium is to lubricate the lungs and organs so they can move freely. When a person has mesothelioma, their mesothelial cells become malignant and form painful tumors. The disease has a very low survival rate.

Tumors of the mesothelium can be non-cancerous (benign), or cancerous (malignant). Malignant mesothelioma of the pleural cavity accounts for 75 percent of all mesothelioma cases.

Mesothelioma has a very long latency period, so that symptoms generally do not appear for decades; sometimes even 40 years or more after the initial exposure to asbestos.

That’s why, despite recent regulations governing the use and handling of asbestos materials, the Centers for Disease Control forecasts that the number of cases of mesothelioma will peak in the United States in 2010.

Malignant pleural mesothelioma

There are several types of mesothelioma. Its symptoms, causes and stages have been well documented.

Usually, the cancer develops in the pleural lining of the lungs, and is called malignant pleural mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (or peritoneum), which is known as peritoneal mesothelioma.

Very rarely, pericardial mesothelioma develops in the lining of the heart.

Weitz & Luxenberg

Weitz & Luxenberg is recognized coast to coast for obtaining record-setting multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements for asbestos-injured workers.

If you have been diagnosed with asbestos-related mesothelioma and seek a free consultation on your eligibility to receive compensation for lost wages, medical care and suffering, please contact our law firm through the communication form at left.

Protect your family’s financial future today. There is no cost until we obtain a settlement or a verdict in your favor.