Mesothelioma Lawyers

 

Mesothelioma is a relatively rare type of malignant cancer that is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos. It can take decades after initial exposure to asbestos for symptoms of mesothelioma to appear. And, if you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, Maurice Blackburn’s dedicated mesothelioma lawyers can help you claim compensation.

It can take decades after the initial exposure to asbestos for symptoms of mesothelioma to appear.

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer which develops in the mesothelium, the protective membrane which covers most of the body's internal organs.

The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. It has a prolonged latency period, and symptoms usually appear around 30 to 40 years after first exposure. Sometimes it’s as long as 60 years, but usually not less than 15 years.

It’s thought that when asbestos fibres are inhaled or ingested, they pierce the mesothelial lining, causing cells to react abnormally, and usually result in scarring or inflammation. This leads to pleural plaques or diffuse pleural thickening, altering the cell’s DNA to become malignant.

We have lawyers inMelbourne,Sydney,Brisbane,Perth,Adelaide,Darwinand throughout Australia. We also represent New Zealand clients who were exposed to Asbestos in Australia. Contact us today to find out how we can help you with your Mesothelioma claim.

Types of mesothelioma cancer

Mesothelioma typically develops after exposure to asbestos fibres and dust, which are inhaled or swallowed. There are four types of asbestos mesothelioma: pleural - involving the lungs, peritoneal - involving the stomach and abdomen, pericardial - involving the heart, and testicular. Pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma are the most common types, comprising approximately 90% of all cases.

Groups at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma include anyone who has worked with asbestos, particularly in jobs such as asbestos mining and manufacturing, and those in the construction, power and shipbuilding industries, as well as their close family or household members who may suffer from secondary exposure.

Causes of asbestos mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is caused by breathing or swallowing toxic asbestos in the form of either dust or fibres and most often starts in the outer membrane of the lungs known as the pleura. Because asbestos fibres and dust can also be swallowed, mesothelioma can also occur in the lining of the abdominal cavity, known as the peritoneum. Less commonly, asbestos mesothelioma may affect the heart, known as pericardial mesothelioma, or reproductive organs, known as testicular mesothelioma.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestosis or other asbestos related disease, contact Maurice Blackburn to talk about how we can help with your personal injury claim.