The three main types of mesothelioma are:

The three main types of mesothelioma are:
Pleural Mesothelioma, which occurs in the lining of the lung
Peritoneal Mesothelioma, which occurs in the lining of the abdominal cavity
Pericardial Mesothelioma, which occurs lining of the heart
Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form, followed by peritoneal mesothelioma. Pericardial mesothelioma is exceptionally rare. The only known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a mineral commonly incorporated in insulating and fire retardant materials. Asbestos was widely used in manufacturing and construction through the mid–1970’s. Its use continued in asbestos cement products, automotive brakes and gaskets into the 1990’s.

Asbestos cancer victims tend to be men ages 50 and up, though nearly anyone who has been exposed to asbestos can contract the disease. Most victims are industrial and construction workers but asbestos fibers from workers’ clothing exposed family members as well. Children and spouses of industrial workers have developed mesothelioma as a result of household exposures.

Symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, a chronic cough, chest and back pain, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping and weight loss. Other symptoms may include weakness, abdominal pain and nausea. Mesothelioma can occur as the result of very low levels of exposure to asbestos fibers. It often takes several decades for signs of the disease to surface.

If you or a family member has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may wish to consult with one of the doctors listed on our Mesothelioma Treatment Centers or Mesothelioma Doctors pages of the website.
Early Detection of Mesothelioma is Imperative
The diagnosis of mesothelioma is usually made by a pathological review of tissue taken from the tumor. Pathologists use a series of immunohistochemical stains to distinguish between mesothelioma and other types of cancer.

When detected early enough and treated by an oncologist with experience treating mesothelioma, a patient’s prognosis may be much better than the average. Early detection is vital. Treatment protocols used for mesothelioma include chemotherapy, surgical removal of tumor, and post–surgical radiation.

To learn more about this rare form of occupational cancer please browse our mesothelioma and asbestos related topics on our website. If you have questions or concerns please call us at (800) 440–4262.

Visit our Mesothelioma Treatment Center page for an extensive list and directory of research information, service providers, treatment facilities and physicians related to mesothelioma and asbestos cancer treatment and after–care.
Mesothelioma: A Preventable Disease
Many people with mesothelioma and other asbestos–related cancers mistakenly believe that the asbestos companies did not know their products caused cancer until it became newsworthy in the 1970’s. In fact, we have evidence that manufacturers of asbestos products knew as early as the 1930’s that their workers were at risk for lung cancer and mesothelioma from asbestos exposure.

The asbestos industry’s history of disclosure is shameful. Workers whose jobs involved installation of asbestos products–such as insulators, boilermakers, construction workers and shipyard workers–were not told of the devastating impact a lifetime of exposure would have.

Our mission at Clapper, Patti, Schweizer & Mason is to hold the asbestos industry accountable for the damage their products have done to thousands of Americans over the past century, and to recover the maximum compensation possible.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos–related cancer, please contact us right away. Usually, one of our lawyers will fly to your home anywhere in the United States within a few days. If the testimony of a mesothelioma patient is needed, it can usually be recorded on videotape so that there is no need to appear in court. We advance any costs incurred in pursuing the case. You will pay attorney’s fees only when we obtain a financial settlement for you.

Having an experienced attorney to represent you can provide additional support during this most challenging time. Please call us at (800) 440–4262 today for a free consultationwith an experienced mesothelioma attorney.