Articles Posted in January, 2011

The trauma of a malignant mesothelioma diagnosis leaves confusion and disbelief in its wake.  Your doctor will likely recommend you see an oncologist.  Your doctor typically will recommend a specialist for your treatment of malignant mesothelioma.  From the initial diagnosis, ask your doctor for a copy of all of your test results.  You have a right to do so.  Be certain to keep a folder with your pathology report, blood tests, imaging reports (x-ray, ct scan, PET scan, etc.) and any other medical results.  Keeping these results is invaluable for showing another doctor  the medical history of your illness should you seek another opinion or alternative treatment.

Useful questions to ask your oncologist about malignant mesothelioma include:

• How far has the malignant mesothelioma spread and what is your life expectancy?

Malignant mesothelioma is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the lining of the chest or abdomen.   The malignant (cancer) cells are found in the pleura (the thin layer of tissue that lines the chest cavity and covers the lungs) or the peritoneum (the thin layer of tissue that lines the abdomen and covers most of the organs in the abdomen).  This summary is about malignant mesothelioma of the pleura.

Anatomy of the respiratory system, showing the trachea and both lungs and their lobes and airways. Lymph nodes and the diaphragm are also shown. Oxygen is inhaled into the lungs and passes through the thin membranes of the alveoli and into the bloodstream.  Source:  NCI – General Information about Malignant Mesothelioma.

If you suspect mesothelioma or have a positive diagnosis, consult your physician immediately and then contact Throneberry Law Group. We offer a free consultation, and our lawyers represent clients nationwide.