California Asbestos Attorneys
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer which is caused, almost exclusively, by asbestos exposure. Although there is no cure, extensive medical treatment is necessary. Mesothelioma is very aggressive, and most people who are diagnosed have less than 18 months to live. If you have developed mesothelioma, you and your family may be able to recover significant compensation. Please, talk to the California asbestos attorneys of Brayton Purcell, LLP, today.
How Asbestos Causes Mesothelioma
Asbestos fiber are tiny and sharp. When inhaled, they can work their way out of the lungs into the pleura, which is the lining of the lungs. Similarly, when the fibers are ingested, they can work their way out of digestive organs and into the peritoneum, which is the lining of the abdominal cavity.
Once in these protective membranes, also known as the mesothelium, asbestos fibers cause irritation and inflammation, and over time this leads to abnormal cell development.
From the time of asbestos exposure, it can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years to develop symptoms of mesothelioma. Most people are not diagnosed until the cancer advanced to the point that it will not respond to treatment. Those who are diagnosed early are candidates for treatments which are more likely to be effective and may even achieve a five year survival.
Types of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma can develop in any part of the mesothelium, and then it can spread to other parts of the body. The four main types of malignant mesothelioma are:
- Pleural – affecting the lining of the lungs
- Peritoneal – affecting the membrane which lines the abdominal cavity and surrounds the abdominal organs
- Pericardial – affective the protective sac around the heart
- Testicular – affecting the membrane surrounding the testicles
If you or someone you love has developed mesothelioma, please call us, at (800) 598-0314 today. Not only can we help you get the justice you deserve, we have an extensive database of and relationships with mesothelioma treatment centers and care providers and counselors who can help you get the care you and your loved ones need in a difficult time like this.
