causes of mesothelioma cancer
Monday, June 29th, 2009
Mesothelioma is the growth of malignant cells in the mesothelium, the thin membrane that covers the body's internal organs. This mesothelium lining covers the pleural, peritoneal and pericardial cavities. Pleura is a membrane that covers the lungs and is the most common site where cancer occurs also known as mesothelioma mesothelioma effusion. Peritoneum, the protective layer that lines the abdominal cavity may also develop malignant tumors and cause mesothelioma peritoneal.
Mesothelioma is one of the rarest cancers in the world that is caused only by exposure to asbestos. His presentation can be direct inhalation of asbestos or indirect exposure to inhaled asbestos particles from clothing, hair, equipment or other items that were previously exposed to asbestos.
Mesothelioma Causes
Asbestos is a natural fibrous mineral that is mined in different parts of the world because of its broad utility in various industries. However, it is a deadly carcinogen too much and cause mojor of mesothelioma and asbestosis.
Asbestos fibers are known to cause cancer of the mesothelium. Asbestos is the fibrous form of several minerals and hydrous silicates of magnesium found underground. There are 3 types of asbestos, blue, while the one and the other brown. Of these 3 types, also called blue amphibole, long and thin in structure is more carcinogenic than white or brown or chrysotile asbestos known as amosite.
However, in some cases the brown asbestos has also been found to cause mesothelioma. And for this reason that people exposed to asbestos, even for a short period of time are vulnerable to disease.
Pleural Mesothelioma
Asbestos fibers are very thin and easily their way to the lungs where they settle in the parenchyma of the lungs and penetrate the pleura that later develops malignant mesothelial plaques.
Pleura, which anchors lungs into the thoracic cavity, is itself a double-layered membrane. The inner layer called visceral pleura surrounding the lungs, while the outer one, known as the parietal pleura forms the lining of the pleural cavity or chest. The two pleural layers are filled with a liquid that helps them glide over each other as we breathe. As the disease progresses, the delicate pleural membranes thicken and press the lungs. A fluid secreted by malignant cells, pleural effusion, may also collect between visceral and parietal pleura that causes breathing problems and other complications.
Peritoneum Mesothelioma
Asbestos fibers can cause cancer of the peritoneum, known as peritoneal mesothelioma. This leads to thickening of the membranes surrounding the abdominal organs and collection of fluid, ascites in the abdominal cavity, which is swell.
While peritoneal mesothelioma is still not clear how it develops, is think of the lungs, asbestos fibers are carried in the abdomen and its organs by the lymphatic system, or can be deposited in the gut through saliva contaminated by asbestos fibers.
Pericardial Mesothelioma
This is the rarest type of mesothelioma cancer that comprises only 5% of all cases of mesothelioma. Like other types of cancer mesothelioma, pericardial Mesothelioma is also caused by inhaling asbestos dust and fibers. The lining of the chest cavity which protects the heart called pericardium. It is provided of a natural fluid or mucous that provide continuous lubrication to the heart so it can function properly and perform its functions.
It is a very deadly disease that destroys the tissues around the heart and decreases the chances of patient survival. As asbestos particles settle further into the lining of the chest or pericardium, the cancer spreads in the body. That destroys the heart tissues and muscles that are very dangerous to life and is fatal for the patient.
About the Author:
Laura Russell is a professional health writer having expertise in the field of Mesothelioma Cancer. To view more of her articles, please visit: Mesothelioma Cancer Info
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Causes of Mesothelioma Cancer
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