Mesothelioma can be a difficult disease to diagnose. While certain symptoms of other diseases can be mistaken for those of mesothelioma, the classic sign of pleural mesothelioma is called pleural effusion. The mesothelium is the membrane that lines the chest cavity and covers the lungs. It is divided into the parietal pleura (which covers the chest wall and diaphragm) and the visceral pleura (which covers the lungs). These membranes are covered with mesothelial cells, which ordinarily produce a liquid that lubricates the space between the wall of the cavity and the lungs. Mesothelioma can be a difficult disease to diagnose. While certain symptoms of other diseases can be mistaken for those of mesothelioma, the classic sign of pleural mesothelioma is called pleural effusion.
The mesothelium is the membrane that lines the chest cavity and covers the lungs. It is divided into the parietal pleura (which covers the chest wall and diaphragm) and the visceral pleura (which covers the lungs). These membranes are covered with mesothelial cells, which ordinarily produce a liquid that lubricates the space between the wall of the cavity and the lungs.
In a person with mesothelioma, however, these cells are triggered by asbestos fibers to produce much more of this lubricating fluid than is normal. When this excess fluid accumulates between the parietal pleura and the visceral pleura, pleural effusion is the result.
The fluid in the effusion consists of two parts: transudate, a clear fluid that forms when the lubricant production and absorption process occurs, and exudate, which is a mix of free proteins and other waste created by the diseased pleura itself. The existence of these fluids, which can be established via thoracentesis (a sample of chest fluid obtained by a needle) is a definitive sign of mesothelioma.
If you believe you are exhibiting symptoms of mesothelioma, consult with your primary care physician immediately for an accurate evaluation of your condition. If you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to financial compensation, based on the circumstances through which you acquired the disease.
Our expert mesothelioma lawyers can assess your case at no charge and, if legal action is warranted, ensure you get the restitution that you deserve.
