admin2Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral fiber that was commonly used in building materials for insulation, flooring, roofing, and siding until the 1980s.
- Asbestos exposure – Inhaling or swallowing asbestos fibers can cause scarring and inflammation of mesothelial cells, eventually leading to mesothelioma cancer cells forming. Even brief asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma, and there is often a long latency period of 20 to 50 years between exposure and diagnosis.
- The three types of mesothelioma are:
- Pleural mesothelioma – affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) and is the most common form.
- Peritoneal mesothelioma – develops in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum).
- Pericardial mesothelioma – forms in the lining of the heart (pericardium) and is extremely rare.
- The symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, and weight loss. An early diagnosis is critical but often difficult due to the long latency period. Diagnostic tests include imaging scans, biopsies, and blood tests.
Mesothelioma Diagnosis and Staging in Montgomery
After being diagnosed with mesothelioma, the next step is determining the stage. Staging helps doctors develop a treatment plan based on how advanced the cancer has become.
The most common method is the TNM system, which considers:
- Tumor (T): The size and location of the primary tumor.
- Node (N): Whether the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
- Metastasis (M): If the cancer has metastasized to distant parts of the body.
Doctors also consider which mesothelioma cell type you have – epithelioid, sarcomatoid, or biphasic. Epithelioid mesothelioma typically has the best prognosis.
To determine the stage, your doctor may order:
- Imaging tests like CT, PET, or MRI scans to examine the chest and abdomen for tumors.
- A biopsy to examine tumor samples. The type of biopsy depends on the tumor location.
- Lymph node biopsies if enlarged nodes are detected.
- Additional tests to check for metastasis in the abdomen, bones, or brain.
The stage is expressed as a number from I to IV. Stage I indicates the cancer is localized, while Stage IV means it has metastasized widely. Staging mesothelioma is complex, so patients should seek care from doctors experienced in diagnosing and treating this rare cancer.
Early diagnosis and staging give the best chance for effective treatment. If you’ve been exposed to asbestos and experience symptoms like chest pain, difficulty breathing, or fluid in the chest or abdomen, talk to your doctor right away about screening for mesothelioma. The earlier this cancer is detected, the better your prognosis can be.
Finding a Mesothelioma Lawyer in Montgomery
Finding the right mesothelioma lawyer in Montgomery is critical to getting the compensation you deserve.
Here are some tips to guide your search:
1. Do your research
Search online for mesothelioma law firms and attorneys in your area. Check their credentials, experience, reviews from former clients, and whether they specialize in asbestos exposure cases. You want a lawyer who knows Alabama laws regarding mesothelioma claims and has a proven track record of success.
2. Ask for references
Don’t hesitate to ask lawyers on your shortlist for references from former clients. Speaking with someone who’s been through the process can help determine if the lawyer is a good fit for your needs. Ask about the lawyer’s communication, responsiveness, and the outcome of the case.
3. Consider experience
An experienced mesothelioma attorney will have handled many similar cases over the years. They understand what’s needed to build a strong case and what compensation amount is typical for your situation. While a less experienced lawyer may work just as hard, experience does matter in technical, complicated cases like mesothelioma claims.
4. Discuss fees upfront
Most mesothelioma lawyers work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing upfront and they receive a percentage of your settlement as payment. However, some charge expenses as the case proceeds. Make sure you understand the fee structure before signing a contract. You want a lawyer who will work diligently for you without unexpected fees popping up along the way.
5. Meet in person if possible
While phone consultations can be helpful, meeting with prospective lawyers in person allows you to get a feel for their dedication, personality, and compassion. Your mesothelioma lawyer will be handling very sensitive matters, so you want someone with a caring and empathetic approach whom you feel comfortable confiding in. If meeting in person isn’t possible, do a video call.
Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Montgomery
Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Montgomery requires some important steps. The legal process can be complicated, but with the help of an experienced mesothelioma lawyer, you can pursue compensation for your asbestos-related diagnosis.
1. Find a Qualified Mesothelioma Lawyer
The first step is to find an attorney who specializes in mesothelioma and asbestos exposure cases. They will review your case, determine if you qualify for compensation, and walk you through the legal process. Look for a lawyer with experience in Montgomery courts who offers a free initial consultation.
2. Provide Your Medical and Exposure History
Your lawyer will need details about your mesothelioma diagnosis and treatment, as well as your history of asbestos exposure. Be prepared to provide information about where and when you were exposed to asbestos. Your lawyer can use this information to determine which companies may be liable for your illness.
3. File a Lawsuit Within the Statute of Limitations
In Alabama, the statute of limitations for filing an asbestos-related lawsuit is two years from the date of diagnosis. Be sure to file your claim within this timeframe to pursue compensation. Your lawyer can file the lawsuit on your behalf in Montgomery courts.
4. Settlement or Trial
Most mesothelioma lawsuits end in settlement before going to trial. Your lawyer will negotiate with the defendant companies to reach a fair settlement offer for you. If a settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to trial where a jury can award damages. Either way, settlements, and verdicts in mesothelioma lawsuits often recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
Mesothelioma Treatment Options in Montgomery
When facing a mesothelioma diagnosis in Montgomery, you have several treatment options to consider with your doctor. The best approach depends on factors like the stage of your cancer, your overall health, and your personal preferences.
1. Surgery
For early stages of mesothelioma, doctors may recommend an aggressive surgery to remove as much of the cancer as possible, called a pleurectomy/decortication or extrapleural pneumonectomy. Surgery aims to remove cancerous tissues while preserving lung function. While not a cure, surgery may help reduce symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
2. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to destroy mesothelioma cells. Chemotherapy may be used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy can also be used as a palliative treatment to relieve pain and improve quality of life for those with advanced mesothelioma. Several chemotherapy drugs, like pemetrexed and cisplatin, have shown promise for treating mesothelioma.
3. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. For mesothelioma, radiation therapy is often used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy. Radiation may also be used palliatively to relieve pain, especially in areas where the cancer has spread. Newer radiation techniques like intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) minimize damage to healthy tissues.
4. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy uses your immune system to fight cancer cells. For mesothelioma, immunotherapy drugs like pembrolizumab and nivolumab may be options for patients whose cancer continues to progress after initial treatment. Immunotherapy can help boost your immune system’s ability to detect and destroy mesothelioma cells.
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Conclusion
In Montgomery, major healthcare systems like Baptist Health offer comprehensive treatment for mesothelioma. Speaking with an oncologist about the pros and cons of each approach can help determine the most effective treatment plan based on your unique situation. While mesothelioma remains incurable, new treatments are extending survival and improving the quality of life for patients.
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