(800) 369-0899
(215) 569-4000
Contact Us Today
A diagnosis of any form of mesothelioma is tragic, but for the ten percent of mesothelioma patients diagnosed each year with pericardial mesothelioma, treatment options are severely compromised. Pericardial mesothelioma attacks the lining surrounding the heart, the pericardial membrane, and like all other types of mesothelioma is directly related to asbestos exposure.
Surgery is most often not an option for these patients, regardless of the stage of the disease at diagnosis, which limits the chances for a prolonged life expectancy. Chemotherapy and radiation can provide comfort to those suffering from the disease, though it will not eradicate the cancer.
The Philadelphia mesothelioma law firm of Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler has a history of over 25 years helping victims of pericardial mesothelioma in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Our skilled asbestos litigators are dedicated to serving the needs of victims of asbestos-related diseases, such as pericardial mesothelioma. We work diligently to protect the rights of mesothelioma victims and their families.
Mesothelioma physicians and researchers are still working to determine exactly how carcinogenic asbestos fibers reach the pericardial lining of the heart. The most logical theory to date suggests that oxygen rich blood entering the heart from the lungs contains asbestos fibers that attach themselves to the lining of the heart. Once there, the fibers lay dormant for a period of 20-50 years before developing into malignant pericardial mesothelioma.
Diagnosing and treating pericardial mesothelioma is complicated because the heart is the central organ necessary to sustain all life functions. Surgical intervention is a rare option for treating this form of mesothelioma. Removing a tumor from the pericardial lining carries too great a risk to justify surgery in most cases. Doctors typically focus treatment on chemical intervention as well as comfort measures to assist the patient in the management of the disease. Those in the early stages of pericardial mesothelioma are more likely to be eligible for experimental therapies, medications and, in rare cases, surgery.
Symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma are so similar to those of heart disease; misdiagnosis and failure to diagnose this form of mesothelioma are common. A diagnosis of pericardial mesothelioma most often occurs when doctors are investigating symptoms of respiratory distress, shortness of breath, or pain in the chest area. Individuals with a known history of first or second-hand exposure to asbestos must inform their doctors when seeking medical intervention for these types of symptoms which can include:
A diagnosis of pericardial mesothelioma is overwhelming to the victim and their loved ones. Medical tests and procedures, chemotherapy, radiation, medications, and a terminal diagnosis can create an emotional and financial crisis for the patient and their family. The experienced and knowledgeable mesothelioma attorneys at the Philadelphia law firm of Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler can help alleviate some of the stress and confusion. We will work diligently to help you receive the compensation you are entitled to by law and help you plan a secure future for your family.
Located in center city Philadelphia, the mesothelioma attorneys at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler serve clients throughout the Pennsylvania – New Jersey – Delaware region. Call us today at 1-800-369-0899 or contact us online.