STAGES OF MESOTHELIOMA

Pleural mesothelioma is the only type of mesothelioma for which a staging classification exists

Identifying the stages of mesothelioma to determine how far the cancer has spread is a procedure that relies on medical imaging tools that include X-rays, CT scans and MRI scans.

April 16, 2010 – Medical treatment of mesothelioma depends on what “stage” the patient's cancer is in.

Pleural mesothelioma, one of three types of mesothelioma, is the only mesothelioma type for which a staging classification exists.

Doctors use the Butchart System to label the cancer’s stages. The system evaluates the extent of tumor growth and classifies the patient’s condition into four stages.

STAGES OF MESOTHELIOMA

Stage I
Mesothelioma is present on one side of the chest only and isn’t growing into the chest wall.

Stage II
Mesothelioma invades the chest lining or involves the esophagus, heart, or pleura on both sides of the chest. Lymph nodes may also be affected.

Stage III
Mesothelioma has grown through the diaphragm and entered the abdominal cavity or peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity). Lymph nodes beyond those in the chest may also be affected.

Stage IV
Mesothelioma has spread through the bloodstream to other organs.

These are the stages that doctors use to describe the condition of a patient diagnosed with the world’s deadliest asbestos-related cancer – mesothelioma. The World Health Organization estimates that 90,000 individuals worldwide die from mesothelioma every year.

The number of cases of mesothelioma are expected to peak in the United States in 2010, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Currently, 3,000 cases are diagnosed annually in the United States.

Mesothelioma cancer is caused by occupational asbestos exposure. Retired workers from the construction, automotive and maritime industries, and even the U.S. Navy, make up the vast majority of mesothelioma cases today.

Weitz & Luxenberg – Champion to asbestos-injured workers

If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease and wish to learn more about asbestos claims and the cause of mesothelioma, we urge you to speak with an asbestos cancer attorney from our firm who can help you recover legal compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and suffering.

Protect your family’s financial future today. Discover if you are eligible for settlement money today by using the communication form at left. The consultation is confidential and absolutely free. There is no cost until we obtain a verdict or settlement in your favor.