Whenever a doctor is trying to determine whether or not a patient has mesthelioma, the initial test is either to remove cells or fluid from the possibly infected area. However, any time an incision or catheter tract is run through cancerous cells, there is always the possibility that a complication known as procedure tract metastasis (PTM) can occur. A PTM is the formation and spread of cancerous cells that run along the incision or catheter track.
As of right now, the spread of these malignant cells seems to be unstoppable, but a new treatment may change this. Researchers from Great Britain are launching a new trial in which patients receive radiotherapy at the site where the cancerous cells will be removed prior to removal. The researchers believe that this might keep PTMs from developing, therefore, physicians won’t agitate and spread more cancerous cells.
So far the trial is in its infancy, but the researchers are very hopeful that this will make mesothelioma diagnosis easier and safer for the patients.
Mesothelioma is a rare form of terminal cancer that attacks the linings of the lungs, heart, abdomen, and, occasionally, the testicles. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, which is a compound abundantly used in commercial applications including furnace work, commercial shipping, and the automotive industry.
The dangers of asbestos exposure was made known to employers as early as the 1930s, however, many of them didn’t take the warnings serious. These employers didn’t warn they employees nor provide them with any form of protection, and therefore, can be held liable for those suffering because of their actions.
If you or a loved one have mesothelioma due to asbestos inhalation and believe it may the fault of your current or previous employer, please contact our Baltimore asbestos settlement lawyers today. We have the experience to help get you the compensation you deserve. Contact the Law Office of Brown | Kiely, LLP today by calling (410) 625-9330.