Mesothelioma is a common concern among people who have been exposed to asbestos. This type of cancer can affect the lungs, heart and other organs, eventually leading to a poorer quality of life and a terminal illness.
Fortunately, the development of mesothelioma or other cancers related to asbestos takes time. Not everyone who is exposed to asbestos develops this illness or others related to that exposure.
If you do get mesothelioma from exposure to asbestos, it’s important to understand the progression of the disease. According to Moffitt Cancer Center, mesothelioma can metastasize quickly even though it may take many decades to develop. Mesothelioma is considered to be an aggressive form of cancer.
How mesothelioma spreads
Mesothelioma spreads quickly, but how quickly will depend on where it’s located. Mesothelioma may be found in one of several places including:
- The lining of the lungs
- The stomach cavity
- The testicles
- The heart
Depending on where mesothelioma develops, it’s possible that it may be close to lymph nodes. If so, and if the cancer spreads to the lymph, then it becomes easier for it to spread. For example, mesothelioma of the lungs more easily travels to the diaphragm, heart and lymph nodes, but mesothelioma in the stomach may move to the liver or spleen instead.
You also have to consider the two kinds of cells that may make up mesothelioma tumors. Epithelial cells spread more slowly that sarcomatoid cells, for example. If the tumor contains both kinds of cells, then it’s known as biphasic mesothelioma.
You have a right to treatment and fair compensation after a mesothelioma diagnosis
If you receive a mesothelioma diagnosis, it’s important to look into where you may have been exposed to asbestos. If you can determine the source of the illness-causing mineral, then you may be able to pursue a lawsuit to seek compensation for the illness you’re dealing with now.
Quick treatment can help prevent the spread of mesothelioma and help improve your quality of life. If you have this type of cancer, following your treatment plan closely may be the best option as you look into seeking compensation for your exposure.