Mesothelioma Information

Malignant mesothelioma is a relatively rare form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. It is an aggressive cancer that affects the mesothelial cells lining three of the body's largest cavities surrounding the lungs, heart and abdomen.

The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma (accounting for about 75% of all mesothelioma cases), mesothelioma of the tissue surrounding the lungs.

The pleura is a thin serous membrane that is found between the lungs and the chest cavity.  It provides a lubricated surface so that the lungs move easily against the chest walls while breathing, and also serves as a protective layer. Pleural mesothelioma is often incorrectly labeled as a type of lung cancer because of the pleura's close proximity to the lungs. 

The second most common type of mesothelioma is peritoneal mesothelioma (accounting for approximately 10% to 20% of all mesothelioma cases), or mesothelioma of the peritoneum. The peritoneum is a thin serous membrane that encloses the organs of the abdomen.

While peritoneal mesothelioma is less common than pleural mesothelioma, it tends to be a more invasive form of the disease, yielding a shorter life expectancy for patients.  The next least common type of mesothelioma is pericardial mesothelioma (accounting for less than 10% of all mesothelioma cases), or mesothelioma of the pericardium.  The pericardium is the serous membrane that surrounds and protects the heart; it is also referred to as the heart sac.  Finally, a very rare form of mesothelioma called tunica vaginalis testis, can begin in the lining surrounding the testicles.

Asbestos and Mesothelioma

Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma worldwide.  Often related to an occupational exposure of some kind, mesothelioma results from sometimes even a brief exposure to asbestos fibers.  It has been determined that asbestos manufacturers knew about the hazards associated with asbestos exposure more than seventy years ago; however, they opted to keep this knowledge to themselves for fear that it could have a negative impact on profitability.  The first warnings in relation to the health hazards associated with asbestos exposure were given in the mid-1960s, and they were terribly inadequate.  Even today, workers are not always told that they are working around asbestos, leaving them at risk of developing any number of asbestos related diseases including the most serious, malignant mesothelioma.

Options for Mesothelioma Sufferers

Although there are a number of mesothelioma treatment options from which to choose, none have proven capable of curing the asbestos cancer. The average post-diagnostic survival time for mesothelioma is between one and two years.  So what can a mesothelioma sufferer do?

Seek out the best and most up-to-date information on new mesothelioma treatment options.  Seek out the best available medical care and aggressively target the disease.  Stay in close contact with your doctor.   Consult a mesothelioma lawyer or asbestos attorney about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit against the culpable asbestos manufacturers responsible for your asbestos exposure.  Remember that resources are available through which you can receive support during the trying process of coping with mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma support groups, asbestos victims' organizations, your place of worship and your family and friends can all help you cope.

Legal Questions

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Mesotheliooma and you have legal questions or require legal assistance, contact Paul & Hanley LLP.

Our firm has an outstanding track record of success in toxic tort litigation cases across the country, and our lawyers are known for their honesty, integrity and compassion.  We've built our reputation on toxic tort litigation representing individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma and other serious diseases with dignity and respect.

We handle a select number of cases at a time and represent workers and families with the extra special attention required for the best possible outcome in each case.  We understand your case is unique, so we take the time to get to know you and your family.  Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation.  We'll discuss your specific case and give you honest answers to your important questions. 

Our toll free telephone number is 800 933-2244. We look forward to helping you.