Asbestos, a mineral once praised for its heat resistance and insulating properties, has become known for its health hazards. When a person is exposed to asbestos fibers, they can develop various illnesses, including mesothelioma and asbestosis. Even though both of these illnesses are caused by asbestos, there are several differences. However, mesothelioma and asbestos also share some similarities. This article discusses the differences and similarities between mesothelioma and asbestosis.
What are Mesothelioma and Asbestosis?
Mesothelioma and asbestosis are diseases that develop after a person is exposed to asbestos fibers. Mesothelioma affects the mesothelium, a thin membrane that protects most internal organs. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can get lodged in the mesothelium, causing inflammation and scarring. Over time, mesothelioma may develop. The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung lining. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal lining, the heart lining, and the testicular lining.
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease characterized by the formation of scar tissue within the lungs and respiratory tract. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lung tissues, resulting in scarring.
Differences Between Mesothelioma and Asbestosis
Mesothelioma and asbestosis differ in several important ways. One of the main differences is in the nature of the diseases. While mesothelioma is a form of cancer, asbestosis is noncancerous. Asbestosis is a type of pulmonary fibrosis. This disease causes inflammation and scarring, but it is not cancer.
Second, these illnesses differ in the way they develop. Mesothelioma develops after asbestos fibers are lodged in the mesothelium, while asbestosis develops after asbestos fibers are lodged in the lung tissues.
Third, while asbestosis only affects the lungs and respiratory tract and does not metastasize or spread to other body parts, mesothelioma can spread or develop elsewhere. Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that originates in the mesothelium and can spread to other areas. For instance, pleural mesothelioma can spread to the lymph nodes, heart, and diaphragm.
Another difference is in life expectancy and prognosis. Generally, mesothelioma has a poor prognosis, with a median survival time of 12 to 21 months after diagnosis. While asbestos can significantly affect the quality of life, patients can live for many years with appropriate management.
Similarities Between Mesothelioma and Asbestosis
Mesothelioma and asbestos have some similarities. First, both diseases are caused by asbestos exposure. Second, mesothelioma and asbestos share some symptoms. Some symptoms that may be present in mesothelioma and asbestosis patients include shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, persistent cough, and weight loss.
Third, mesothelioma and asbestosis have a long latency period, which is the period between when a person is first exposed to asbestos and when they develop symptoms. The average latency period between the two illnesses is about one to four decades.
Fourth, both asbestosis and mesothelioma are incurable. However, treatment options are available for both illnesses. Treatment can help control the disease and minimize symptoms.
Finally, both mesothelioma and asbestos can result in legal claims for compensation if the illness was a result of the negligence of another party.
Note: The above is not an exhaustive list of the similarities and differences between asbestosis and mesothelioma.
Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment.