Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma is a disease in which malignant cancer cells form in the lining of the chest or abdomen. Mesothelioma is a rare lung cancer that is related to asbestos exposure. It is almost always fatal, and treatment options are limited. Many of those with malignant mesothelioma have worked and/or lived in places where they inhaled and/or swallowed asbestos. After being exposed to asbestos, it usually takes a long time for malignant mesothelioma to occur.

Sometimes the cancer causes fluid to collect around the lung or in the abdomen. These symptoms may be caused by the fluid or malignant mesothelioma. Other conditions may cause the same symptoms. A medical doctor should be consulted if any of the following symptoms occur:

• Trouble breathing
• Pain under the rib cage
• Pain or swelling in the abdomen
• Lumps in the abdomen
• Weight loss for no known reason

Unlike other lung cancers, mesothelioma occurs deep within the lungs, spreading through the thin layers of tissue surrounding the lungs. Some forms of mesothelioma occur outside the lungs, but are still related to asbestos exposure. For many years industries in the United States exposed their workers to asbestos, knowing that mesothelioma and other cancers could result. Companies simply chose profits over the safety of their workers.

The high cost of treatment and poor prognosis for patients with mesothelioma make legal representation important for many victims of this disease. We understand that you have a choice in selecting your attorney. Our experience with asbestos cases, and our combined eighty years of trial experience give our clients an advantage that many firms simply cannot offer. In addition, we have a medical doctor who is also a lawyer, who can provide invaluable expertise in handling cases involving mesothelioma.