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Saturday, August 4, 2007

Mesothelioma: What is it?

Mesothelioma is a malignant cancerous disease of the cells lining the patient's body cavities such as chest, abdominal region or the area surrounding the heart. It is thought to be associated with exposure to asbestos, and this asbestos association has been documented in 70-80% of all mesothelioma cases. Asbestos cancer or mesothelioma is very difficult to assess and diagnose consistently. The time between exposure and the onset of the disease, and the rate of progression of malignant mesothelioma, make diagnosis very difficult.
It is believed that even insignificant exposure to asbestos in environments such as asbestos mills, mines, shipping yards, some older Navy ships or even patient's homes can result in mesothelioma. In many cases mesothelioma does not occur for decades after initial exposure to this cancer-causing asbestos. 2000-3000 cases of mesothelioma per year are currently being diagnosed. Family members of workers exposed to asbestos can also contract this disease through exposure to the worker's clothing. Like many other cancers, smoking greatly increases the risk of contracting mesothelioma.
Some of the earliest symptoms of mesothelioma are commonly over looked due there similarity to symptoms of less serious diseases. Some patients do not show any signs of sickness in the early stages of development of the disease. The most common symptoms of mesothelioma include dyspnoea, pleuritic pain, lasting cough, fatigue, and weight loss. These symptoms may not be attributed to mesothelioma unless the patient is examined by a competent and knowledgeable health care provider who orders the appropriate tests. Test for mesothelioma, or asbestos cancer, may include CT scans, x-rays scans, or MRI. Surgery can be one of the treatment options; however, the recurrence rate of cancerous cells is high. It is very important that the disease is diagnosed and treated as early as possible.
This disease is not more prevalent in any particular race or ethic group; however it is more common in men. Most cases of mesothelioma occur 30-45 years after initial exposure to asbestos. Once it develops, this cancer will continue to grow until it is treated or the victim expires.
Mesothelioma: Treatment
Although science is not certain as to the exact mechanism which causes mesothelioma, it is thought that the asbestos fibers puncture the parenchyma, become lodged in the pleura, and by process of irritation create the change in the cells which causes the mesothelioma.
The chance of recovery for a person with mesothelioma depends on several factors, including:
Size of the cancer
Location of the cancer
Spread of the cancer throughout the body
Response to treatment
Appearance of the cells under a microscope
Age of the patient
Malignant mesothelioma is the most serious of all asbestos-related diseases. Virtually all cases of malignant mesothelioma are attributable to asbestos exposure.
If you have mesothelioma or you know someone who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, remember that time matters. The sooner you consult your doctor and get professional care the better your chances will be of dealing with this dangerous asbestos cancer. There are three traditional methods of fighting cancerous mesothelioma:
Surgery
Chemotherapy drugs
Radiation therapy.
Please contact your doctor as soon as possible to get more information.
Mesothelioma: The Internet Phenomenon
The nature of Mesothelioma or Asbestos Cancer and the length of time before symptoms may occur has made conventional claims for compensation difficult. This has opened the door and presented a great opportunity for personal injury lawyers and personal injury and class action lawsuits.
An indication of the part that the Internet has played, or is playing in this, can be determined by the amount of money personal injury lawyers and law firms are spending to advertise their services on the Internet. Many of these Law Firms have entire websites dedicated to this subject. In fact much of the information in this article was culled from these law firms' websites.
The punch line on all these websites of course is that the mesothelioma victim should hire this law firm to represent them in a personal injury or class action lawsuit.
Most reader know that it is possible to buy ads that will be displayed on Search Engine results pages when certain keywords are searched on. The current record high payment for keyword advertising of this type is held by "mesothelioma" and "asbestos cancer". These law firms are currently paying more than any other seller of goods or services to attract visitors to their websites.
Is this good or is this bad? Obviously the law firms feel that there is a great deal of money to be made in these personal injury suits, but what about the mesothelioma victim? For him/her these lawyers, and law firms, may represent the only chance for adequate medical care and the means to support their families and live their lives with this debilitating disease.
Mesothelioma: The Summary
Mesothelioma, or asbestos cancer, is a terrible disease. The length of time between exposure and the onset of the symptoms hangs over the heads of many people like a life sentence. Personal injury lawyers and attorneys are often derided and condemned, however for the victims of Mesothelioma they may represent the only means of securing the funds to treat the disease or cope with the disabling impact of malignant mesothelioma.
About the AuthorBob Wakfer is the owner of Computer Partners and a long time student and practitioner of SEO. Computer Partners offers web site design, hosting and search engine optimization for its clients. If you would like to discuss any of these services with Bob you can email him at bob@compar.com.
Mesothelioma InformationMesothelioma Asbestos Cancer Information: Brings you all the latestinformation for mesothelioma sufferers. You are not alone in your struggle with thisdisease.
Mesothelioma & Cancer Self Help Information on causes, symptoms and treatment for Mesothelioma or Asbestos Cancer. Latest news from around the globe, and links to other Mesothelioma organisations.
Mesothelioma Resource Online Information on symptoms, diagnosis, effects & treatment of malignant mesothelioma cancer.
Mesothelioma Legal Review - The complete resource directory for Mesothelioma related information, legal services, and products
Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can develop decades after exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that was once widely used due to its fire resistant and insulating properties, but is no longer mined, milled or manufactured in Australia because of the health risks. All uses in new products are now banned in Australia and no asbestos products may be imported. Strict precautions also govern the removal and disposal of asbestos and asbestos-containing materials. Mesothelioma usually starts in the outer membrane of the lungs (pleura) but can also occur in the membrane lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneum). Uncommonly, the heart or reproductive organs may be affected. Mesothelioma cannot be cured. Treatment aims to prolong life and keep the person as comfortable as possible. Symptoms of mesothelioma - lungsThe lungs are wrapped in a thin membrane called the visceral pleura. The chest wall is similarly lined (parietal pleura). These two membranes touch and slide across each other while we breathe, lubricated by a slick of fluid. Mesothelioma usually develops in only one lung. The tumour tends to grow across the lung until the entire organ is encased. Sometimes cancer cells migrate to lymph nodes and other areas of the body (such as the unaffected lung) via the lymphatic system. Mesothelioma causes the pleura to make more fluid than necessary, which presses on the lung (pleural effusion). Symptoms include:
Breathlessness
Dry cough
Pain.Symptoms of mesothelioma - peritoneumAbout 10 per cent of mesothelioma cases involve the peritoneum. The peritoneum is a membrane that forms the lining of the abdominal and the pelvic cavities. Swallowed asbestos fibres can move through the stomach wall and cause mesothelioma to develop in the peritoneum. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include:
Painful abdomen
Swollen abdomen
High temperature
Nausea and vomiting
Bowel problems
Urinary problems.Symptoms in the later stagesSymptoms in the later stages of the disease include:
Sudden and unexplained weight loss
Spitting up sputum
Spitting up blood
Swallowing problems
Hoarseness.High risk groupsThe primary risk factor for mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. The disease is rarely seen in young people. Since mesothelioma can take as long as 40 years to develop, the incidence tends to rise following middle age. High risk groups include anyone who has worked with asbestos - in jobs such as asbestos mining, milling, manufacture or in the construction, power and shipbuilding industries - and their close family or household members: for example, those who washed their work clothes.Diagnosis methodsDiagnosis of mesothelioma may include:
Medical history including history of asbestos exposure
Physical examination
Blood tests
Chest x-rays
CT scans
MRI
Drainage and laboratory analysis of the pleural fluid
Tissue sample (biopsy) to help differentiate mesothelioma from another condition known as ‘benign asbestos related pleural disease’.Treatment optionsDepending on the type of mesothelioma, the stage of disease and the person’s preference, treatment options can include:
Pleurectomy - surgery to remove the affected tissue. The affected lung may also be removed in whole or in part. Usually only small tumours are treated with surgery. Life span may be prolonged for a few months or years.
Phototherapy - sometimes used during pleurectomy. Stray cancer cells within the chest are highlighted with special dye and killed by laser.
Pleurodesis - a special powder is inserted between the pleural layers to cause inflammation that stops production of excess fluid. It is performed using a slender instrument (endoscope) inserted into the chest.
Peritoneal surgery - to remove tumours in the abdominal cavity. Bowel symptoms can often improve following this procedure.
Chemotherapy - cancer-killing drugs that can shrink the cancer and ease symptoms. Chemotherapy is often recommended if the cancer has returned following other treatment, or if other treatments are inappropriate.
Radiotherapy - x-ray treatment to kill cancer cells. Only small areas can be treated or else the healthy cells of the lungs, heart and liver may be damaged. Radiotherapy is often used to ease pain and breathlessness.Where to get help
Your doctor
Asbestos Diseases Foundation of Australia Inc. Tel. (02) 9637 8759
The Cancer Council Victoria, Cancer Helpline Tel. 131 120
Peter McCallum Cancer Institute Tel. (03) 9656 1111
WorkSafe Victoria Tel. (03) 9641 1555
Environment Protection Authority Victoria Tel. (03) 9695 2722
Department of Human Services, Environmental Health Unit Tel. (03) 9606 0000
Asbestos Victims Support Group website.Things to remember
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can develop decades after exposure to asbestos.
Mesothelioma usually targets the outer membrane of the lungs (pleura) but can also occur in the membrane lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneum).
There is no cure; treatment aims to prolong life and keep the person as comfortable as possible

Prescription Drug Information Directory

Listed with each Prescription Drug below are links to the best online pharmacies that dispense each drug. Why do we list several online drugstores? So that you can check for the lowest prescription drug prices at more than one Internet drug store or online pharmacy.
These online pharmacies also contain detailed prescription drug information. Want to know about dosage and side affects? Check them out!
Want to find the best price at any Online Pharmacy? Do your own prescription drug prices comparison. This Prescription Drug Directory is your single source for the best information and best prices online.
Allergies
Allegra
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Birth Control
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Anti-Depressants
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Hair Loss
Propecia
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Herpes
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Sexual
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Skin Care
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Cholesterol
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Stop Smoking
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Yeast Infections
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Baron & Budd, P.C., Attorneys Earn Trial Lawyer of the Year Award

DALLAS, July 20 - Attorneys from the Dallas law firm of Baron & Budd, P.C., have earned the prestigious “Trial Lawyer of the Year Award” presented by Trial Lawyers for Public Justice.

“The dedication of the attorneys and our clients’ persistence produced a result in these cases that will benefit future generations for many years to come,” says Russell W. Budd, Managing Shareholder of Baron & Budd. “We are very proud of the firm’s work, and we are very grateful to be recognized for this incredible honor.”

Baron & Budd represented more than 1,600 Tucson-area residents in claims against an aircraft manufacturer, the City of Tucson and the Tucson Airport Authority over groundwater contamination. Much of the contamination was caused by industrial solvents containing trichloroethylene, or TCE, which is classified as a probable and suspected carcinogen. Baron & Budd’s clients suffered a variety of injuries - including cancer - due to their exposure to TCE through the city’s water supply.

The litigation reached its conclusion in June 2006 when insurers agreed to fund settlements for residents who had filed their original claim in 1985. The 21-year legal battle helped define Arizona laws on pollution coverage issues, and is widely considered among the most important litigation in U.S. history involving personal injuries caused by water pollution.

Trial Lawyers for Public Justice presents its “Trial Lawyer of the Year Award” to the trial attorney or attorneys who have made the greatest contribution to the public interest within the past year by trying or settling a precedent-setting case or cases. TLPJ describes finalists and recipients as exemplifying “how trial lawyers use their skills and determination to create a more just society.”

About Baron & Budd, P.C.

Since 1977, the law firm of Baron & Budd, P.C. has championed the rights of people and communities harmed by corporate misconduct. With over 80 attorneys and offices in Texas, Illinois, Ohio, Louisiana and New York, Baron & Budd enjoys a national reputation as a leader of the plaintiffs’ bar. The firm represents individuals with mesothelioma and other diseases caused by asbestos; leukemia and lymphoma caused by benzene; and injuries caused by other toxic substances and pharmaceuticals. The firm also represents water authorities seeking clean-up costs for drinking water contamination; securities investors defrauded by corporate wrongdoing; and consumers. For more information about Baron & Budd, call 1-800-222-2766 or visit www.baronandbudd.com.

Mesothelioma Cancer

Now lets get into more details of mesothelioma cancer. In Mesothelioma the mesothelium cells grows out of control and becomes very cancerous. Mesothelium is a double layered and protective membrane which covers internal organs of the body. The cells produce fluid between these layers in order to provide easy functioning of heart and lungs within the cavity of chest. When mesothelioma cancer cells attack mesothelium it becomes very hard to breath for a human. In the two covered layers for which one layer that covers lungs is known to be as pleura and the other layer which covers the heart is known to be as pericardinium (the "sac-like" space around the heart). The Peritonium layers lines the abodominal cavity. Mesothelioma Cancer can be found in any of the cells but oftenly seen in pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma. Mesothelioma cancer that invades pleural will prevent smooth functioning of lungs and other parts of the chest. Mesothelioma cancer that invades peritoneal will cause weight loss, vomiting and nausea

Mesothelioma treatment options: mesothelioma treatments therapy

Numerous mesothelioma treatments introduced so far could not succeed to stop spreading of the mesothelioma cancer. Mesothelioma caused in the pleura, peritoneum, pericardium, and tunica vaginalis is an uncommon malignancy, which approximately kills 3 to 5 lives per day in the USA alone. Due to its rarity, many of the medical, surgical and radiation oncologists have insufficient experience in treating mesothelioma and do not wish to be involved in the treatment of the disease. Inspite of these, certain treatments are still being established to find a way to limit the spreading of the deadly mesothelioma cancer and reducing the suffering and pain that mesothelioma causes.

Mesothelioma Doctors, Hospitals & Support

There are a number of medical centers in the U.S. and elsewhere that specialize in one or more types of mesothelioma treatment. Finding experienced medical specialists and networking with other sufferers through support groups are both important steps in the mesothelioma treatment process and can affect your prognosis.
There are medical resources available to assist and care for mesothelioma patients through their treatment. Staying informed and connected to the network of mesothelioma resources is one of the most important things you can do in your battle.If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease (asbestosis, lung cancer, mesothelioma), you can bring a legal claim against the manufacturers, sellers, and installers of asbestos products. Filing a legal claim can help you address the medical and financial problems that asbestos-related diseases can cause victims and their families.
Belluck & Fox provides fast, professional and personalized legal representation. We will only represent you if we believe that there is a reasonable chance of a successful outcome for you and your family. To have your case evaluated immediately, contact Belluck & Fox

Occupational Hazards: Asbestos Exposure

What jobs are the most hazardous for asbestos exposure? What types of workers have the highest risk for Mesothelioma?
It is in the handling of asbestos and the breathing of its dust and fibers that constitutes the primary risk-factor for developing an asbestos-related pathology, such as mesothelioma. However, even if one hasn’t directly handled the asbestos, one’s risk-factor for asbestos disease still increases if one has worked in a facility where its dust and fibers are a component of the breathable air.While many uses for asbestos were banned in the mid-1970’s, the risk from exposure continues to this day because of mesothelioma’s long latency and incubation period of anywhere between 10 – 70 years. Today, asbestos continues to be a threat to workers exposed through their occupations and in buildings that were erected or renovated prior to the ban.

See Also:
Asbestos Products
U.S. Navy & Asbestos
What Companies Knew, and When
Companies Sued in Asbestos Lawsuits
Asbestos fibers are so toxic that industrial and trade worker’s families may develop mesothelioma, or another asbestos-related disease, through coming into contact with stray fibers and particles that have built-up on the worker’s clothing, shoes, skin and hair. This type of “second-hand” exposure to asbestos is known as para-occupational exposure.
Thousands of workers in a variety of industries have been tragically affected by the dangerous nature of asbestos fibers. However, certain industries, such as the construction and the maritime industries, have a greater occurrence of asbestos-related disease than others do.
Some of the construction trades most at risk from asbestos include (but are not limited to):
» insulators
» plumbers and pipefitters
» electricians
» sheet metal workers
Click here to see a more extensive list of trades at risk for asbestos exposure.
Any construction worker may be in danger during maintenance, remodeling, or demolition of an old building or road.
In addition to asbestos exposure to workers in private industries, sailors, submariners, and other Navy personnel were placed at risk. Shipbuilders were constantly in danger of inhaling asbestos, but those who tore apart old ships so that they may be repaired or refurbished were at an even greater risk.

Mesothelioma Treatments


While there is currently no known cure for malignant mesothelioma, treatments are available with the most common being surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.Your doctor will recommend one treatment or a combination of therapies that are best for your situation. The course of treatment will depend on a number of factors including the location of the disease, the stage of the disease, your age, overall health and your preferences.
The information provided throughout this website is for your information only, and should NOT take the place of a full medical diagnosis.

See Also:
Clinical Trials
Doctors, Hospitals & Support
Investigating Asbestos Exposure
Free Claim Evaluation Form
Mesothelioma Treatment Types
As in all forms of cancer treatment, there are traditional modalities for the treatment of mesothelioma, as well as experimental, non-traditional options.
Traditional Mesothelioma Treatment Options
» Surgery (physical removal of the cancer)
» Chemotherapy (using drugs to fight the cancer)
» Radiation Therapy (using high-dose x-rays to kill cancer cells)
Doctors will often use two or more of these treatment courses jointly to provide the maximum likelihood of success. This multi-modal approach holds the most promise for survival of malignant mesothelioma patients. Trimodality therapy, in which all three of these modalities are used, is considered the most effective, and aggressive, approach.
Non-Traditional Mesothelioma Treatment Options
» Photodynamic Therapy
» Gene Therapy
» Immunotherapy
The following pages provide information on all of these treatment options.

Mesothelioma treatment options: mesothelioma treatments therapy

Numerous mesothelioma treatments introduced so far could not succeed to stop spreading of the mesothelioma cancer. Mesothelioma caused in the pleura, peritoneum, pericardium, and tunica vaginalis is an uncommon malignancy, which approximately kills 3 to 5 lives per day in the USA alone. Due to its rarity, many of the medical, surgical and radiation oncologists have insufficient experience in treating mesothelioma and do not wish to be involved in the treatment of the disease. Inspite of these, certain treatments are still being established to find a way to limit the spreading of the deadly mesothelioma cancer and reducing the suffering and pain that mesothelioma causes.

Mesothelioma Cancer

Now lets get into more details of mesothelioma cancer. In Mesothelioma the mesothelium cells grows out of control and becomes very cancerous. Mesothelium is a double layered and protective membrane which covers internal organs of the body. The cells produce fluid between these layers in order to provide easy functioning of heart and lungs within the cavity of chest. When mesothelioma cancer cells attack mesothelium it becomes very hard to breath for a human. In the two covered layers for which one layer that covers lungs is known to be as pleura and the other layer which covers the heart is known to be as pericardinium (the "sac-like" space around the heart). The Peritonium layers lines the abodominal cavity. Mesothelioma Cancer can be found in any of the cells but oftenly seen in pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma. Mesothelioma cancer that invades pleural will prevent smooth functioning of lungs and other parts of the chest. Mesothelioma cancer that invades peritoneal will cause weight loss, vomiting and nausea

Prescription Drug Information Directory

Listed with each Prescription Drug below are links to the best online pharmacies that dispense each drug. Why do we list several online drugstores? So that you can check for the lowest prescription drug prices at more than one Internet drug store or online pharmacy.
These online pharmacies also contain detailed prescription drug information. Want to know about dosage and side affects? Check them out!
Want to find the best price at any Online Pharmacy? Do your own prescription drug prices comparison. This Prescription Drug Directory is your single source for the best information and best prices online.
Allergies
Allegra
Friendly Drug Store, Happy Meds, Corner Drug Store,
Flonase
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Clarinex
OnlinePills.com, Corner Drug Store, Happy Meds, Friendly Drug Store
Other Allergies Products Friendly Drug Store,
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Ortho Tri-Cyclen
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Soma
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Paxil
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Propecia
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If you can't find a drug on the list please consult with a local pharmacy.

Pathophysiology

The mesothelium consists of a single layer of flattened to cuboidal cells forming the epithelial lining of the serous cavities of the body including the peritoneal, pericardial and pleural cavities. Deposition of asbestos fibres in the parenchyma of the lung may result in the penetration of the visceral pleura from where the fibre can then be carried to the pleural surface, thus leading to the development of malignant mesothelial plaques. The processes leading to the development of peritoneal mesothelioma remain unresolved, although it has been proposed that asbestos fibres from the lung are transported to the abdomen and associated organs via the lymphatic system. Additionally, asbestos fibres may be deposited in the gut after ingestion of sputum contaminated with asbestos fibres.
Pleural contamination with asbestos or other mineral fibres has been shown to cause cancer. Long thin asbestos fibers (blue asbestos, amphibole fibers) are more potent carcinogens than "feathery fibers" (chrysotile or white asbestos fibers).[4] However, there is now evidence that smaller particles may be more dangerous than the larger fibers.[1][2] They remain suspended in the air where they can be inhaled, and may penetrate more easily and deeper into the lungs. "We probably will find out a lot more about the health aspects of asbestos from [the World Trade Center attack], unfortunately," said Dr. Alan Fein, chief of pulmonary and critical-care medicine at North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System. Dr. Fein has treated several patients for "World Trade Center syndrome" or respiratory ailments from brief exposures of only a day or two near the collapsed buildings.[3]
Mesothelioma development in rats has been demonstrated following intra-pleural inoculation of phosphorylated chrysotile fibres. It has been suggested that in humans, transport of fibres to the pleura is critical to the pathogenesis of mesothelioma. This is supported by the observed recruitment of significant numbers of macrophages and other cells of the immune system to localised lesions of accumulated asbestos fibres in the pleural and peritoneal cavities of rats. These lesions continued to attract and accumulate macrophages as the disease progressed, and cellular changes within the lesion culminated in a morphologically malignant tumour.
Experimental evidence suggests that asbestos acts as a complete carcinogen with the development of mesothelioma occurring in sequential stages of initiation and promotion. The molecular mechanisms underlying the malignant transformation of normal mesothelial cells by asbestos fibres remain unclear despite the demonstration of its oncogenic capabilities. However, complete in vitro transformation of normal human mesothelial cells to malignant phenotype following exposure to asbestos fibres has not yet been achieved. In general, asbestos fibres are thought to act through direct physical interactions with the cells of the mesothelium in conjunction with indirect effects following interaction with inflammatory cells such as macrophages.
Analysis of the interactions between asbestos fibres and DNA has shown that phagocytosed fibres are able to make contact with chromosomes, often adhering to the chromatin fibres or becoming entangled within the chromosome. This contact between the asbestos fibre and the chromosomes or structural proteins of the spindle apparatus can induce complex abnormalities. The most common abnormality is monosomy of chromosome 22. Other frequent abnormalities include structural rearrangement of 1p, 3p, 9p and 6q chromosome arms.
Common gene abnormalities in mesothelioma cell lines include deletion of the tumor suppressor genes:
Neurofibromatosis type 2 at 22q12
P16INK4A
P14ARF
Asbestos has also been shown to mediate the entry of foreign DNA into target cells. Incorporation of this foreign DNA may lead to mutations and oncogenesis by several possible mechanisms:
Inactivation of tumor suppressor genes
Activation of oncogenes
Activation of proto-oncogenes due to incorporation of foreign DNA containing a promoter region
Activation of DNA repair enzymes, which may be prone to error
Activation of telomerase
Prevention of apoptosis
Asbestos fibres have been shown to alter the function and secretory properties of macrophages, ultimately creating conditions which favour the development of mesothelioma. Following asbestos phagocytosis, macrophages generate increased amounts of hydroxyl radicals, which are normal by-products of cellular anaerobic metabolism. However, these free radicals are also known clastogenic and membrane-active agents thought to promote asbestos carcinogenicity. These oxidants can participate in the oncogenic process by directly and indirectly interacting with DNA, modifying membrane-associated cellular events, including oncogene activation and perturbation of cellular antioxidant defences.
Asbestos also may possess immunosuppressive properties. For example, chrysotile fibres have been shown to depress the in vitro proliferation of phytohemagglutinin-stimulated peripheral blood lymphocytes, suppress natural killer cell lysis and significantly reduce lymphokine-activated killer cell viability and recovery. Furthermore, genetic alterations in asbestos-activated macrophages may result in the release of potent mesothelial cell mitogens such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) which in turn, may induce the chronic stimulation and proliferation of mesothelial cells after injury by asbestos fibres

Diagnosis for mesothelioma

Diagnosing mesothelioma is often difficult, because the symptoms are similar to those of a number of other conditions. Diagnosis begins with a review of the patient's medical history. A history of exposure to asbestos may increase clinical suspicion for mesothelioma. A physical examination is performed, followed by chest X-ray and often lung function tests. The X-ray may reveal pleural thickening commonly seen after asbestos exposure and increases suspicion of mesothelioma. A CT (or CAT) scan or an MRI is usually performed. If a large amount of fluid is present, abnormal cells may be detected by cytology if this fluid is aspirated with a syringe. For pleural fluid this is done by a pleural tap or chest drain, in ascites with an paracentesis or ascitic drain and in a pericardial effusion with pericardiocentesis. While absence of malignant cells on cytology does not completely exclude mesothelioma, it makes it much more unlikely, especially if an alternative diagnosis can be made (e.g. tuberculosis, heart failure).
If cytology is positive or a plaque is regarded as suspicious, a biopsy is needed to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma. A doctor removes a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope by a pathologist. A biopsy may be done in different ways, depending on where the abnormal area is located. If the cancer is in the chest, the doctor may perform a thoracoscopy. In this procedure, the doctor makes a small cut through the chest wall and puts a thin, lighted tube called a thoracoscope into the chest between two ribs. Thoracoscopy allows the doctor to look inside the chest and obtain tissue samples.
If the cancer is in the abdomen, the doctor may perform a laparoscopy. To obtain tissue for examination, the doctor makes a small opening in the abdomen and inserts a special instrument into the abdominal cavity. If these procedures do not yield enough tissue, more extensive diagnostic surgery may be necessary.

Natural Skin Care - Just Open Your Kitchen Cabinet

Safer, less expensive, and easy-to-use natural skin care can be as easy as opening your kitchen cabinet, coupled with a few minutes of preparation.Healthy, radiant, glowing skin is something every person wants. Yet, few of us even think to use what's really the best for out skin: natural skin care products.Each year, millions of dollars are spent chasing after perfectly healthy, ageless skin. The environment, stress, and less than healthy eating habits, all play a major role in the quality of your skin.
,The answers to achieving radiant, glowing complexion are within arm's reach. Many of the items in your kitchen right now can provide natural skin care that's even better thank those expensive, chemical filled products that cost an arm and a leg.Skin Care Throughout LifeFrom the day we are born, our skin requires much care to remain smooth and healthy. It begins with soap to keep us clean. Then, there are creams, powders, and ointments to keep diaper rash from our bottoms. During the first few years of our lives, our skin will do well with soap for cleaning and the occasional lotion or cream for moisture. Then come the teen years. Our raging hormones bring out the oily skin, the pimples, and a host of other conditions.It's important to understand that everything that comes in contact with our body affects our health and the condition of our skin. That's why choosing natural skin care products and ingredients is important. The liver filters the toxins and poisons from the food we eat, but whatever we place onour skin is directly absorbed. This includes deodorant, lotions, gels, cleansers, toners, make-up, perfumes, and more.As we age, our skin becomes more sensitive, and we need to be even more careful with the beauty treatments we use.Simple Solutions for Better SkinHere are a just a few natural skin care solutions for you to try. You'll be very pleased with the results:-once a week, rub your skin with baking soda while in the shower, for a smooth, silky feeling. You can also do this on your face to remove black heads.-fresh tomatoes are great for the oily areas of your face. ( Please make sure to try the tomato juice on your arm first, as your skin may be sensitive to it). Rinse thoroughly immediately after using the tomato juice.-for a great moisturizer try olive oil: this healthy fat is good for you, and is great for your skin. You can also use it to soothe sunburned skin.-vinegar can work wonders for smelly feet and armpits. Mix water and vinegar 50/50, and use in place of deodorant: it will keep the unpleasant sweat smell away, without any irritation. As for your feet, if you suffer with athlete's foot, a week of vinegar foot bath will help a lot, sometimes completely getting rid of your condition.-egg yolk mixed with honey makes for a really great mask: put on your skin, leave it on for 20 minutes, and rinse off. Excellent for sensitive skin. Honey gives a tingling/ticklish sensation, so if you are sensitive to that, use the egg yolk alone.-another use for egg yolk: for those with eczema, use it instead of soap. It doesn't smell great, but it will heal your damaged skin.-a great treatment for dry skin is avocados: mash it, smooth it onto your face, and rinse off after 20 minutes.Lastly, make sure you drink 8 glasses of water every day to keep your skin cared from the inside out.

Signs and symptoms for mesothelioma

Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath, cough, and pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleural space are often symptoms of pleural mesothelioma.
Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss and cachexia, abdominal swelling and pain due to ascites (a buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity). Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever. If the cancer has spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.
These symptoms may be caused by mesothelioma or by other, less serious conditions.
Mesothelioma that affects the pleura can cause these signs and symptoms:
chest wall pain
pleural effusion, or fluid surrounding the lung
shortness of breath
fatigue or anemia
wheezing, hoarseness, or cough
blood in the sputum (fluid) coughed up
In severe cases, the person may have many tumor masses. The individual may develop a pneumothorax, or collapse of the lung. The disease may metastasize, or spread, to other parts of the body.
Tumors that affect the abdominal cavity often do not cause symptoms until they are at a late stage. Symptoms include:
abdominal pain
ascites, or an abnormal buildup of fluid in the abdomen
a mass in the abdomen
problems with bowel function
weight loss
In severe cases of the disease, the following signs and symptoms may be present:
blood clots in the veins, which may cause thrombophlebitis
disseminated intravascular coagulation, a disorder causing severe bleeding in many body organs
jaundice, or yellowing of the eyes and skin
low blood sugar level
pleural effusion
pulmonary emboli, or blood clots in the arteries of the lungs
severe ascites
A mesothelioma does not usually spread to the bone, brain, or adrenal glands. Pleural tumors are usually found only on one side of the lungs