Asbestosis vs Mesothelioma: Key Differences Explained

Both asbestosis and mesothelioma are caused by inhaling microscopic asbestos fibers, but they aren’t the same disease.

Let’s look at what each is and then break down the differences.

What Is Asbestosis vs Mesothelioma?

Asbestosis is a chronic lung condition caused by prolonged exposure to high concentrations of asbestos fibers in the air. It is a form of pulmonary fibrosis (PF), characterized by scarring and damage to the lung tissue.

The disease occurs when airborne fibers and dust become trapped in tiny air sacs in the lungs at the end of the airways (called alveoli). Once trapped, the fibers irritate and scar the lung tissue.

Since the disease is progressive, meaning it gets worse over time, symptoms may not develop for up to 20 years after exposure. By that time, asbestos would have significantly scarred the lung tissue, making it stiff and unable to expand normally.

While the disease is usually associated with work conditions, there are reports of secondhand exposure to asbestos-containing dust that have led to asbestosis, according to the American Lung Association.

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Is Asbestosis Cancer?

The short answer is no, but the condition is associated with a number of malignancies, including mesothelioma. Those who have been exposed to asbestos fibers over a long period are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

While asbestosis is not cancer, there are long-term complications due to permanent scars to the lung tissue. Unfortunately, there is no cure.

What Is Mesothelioma?

The Mayo Clinic explains that mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that starts as a growth of cells in the thin layer of tissue, called the mesothelium, that covers some internal organs. This type of growth happens most often in the tissue around the lungs, which is called pleural mesothelioma. While pleural mesothelioma is the most common form, mesothelioma can also occur in the tissues in the belly, around the heart, as well as around the testicles.

Often called “malignant mesothelioma,” this condition is a fast-growing and deadly form of cancer. There are treatments, but there is generally no cure for mesothelioma.

Difference Between Asbestosis and Mesothelioma

Both mesothelioma and asbestosis are a result of breathing in asbestos fibers, but they are different diseases. Asbestosis is not considered cancer, but having it increases the risk for related cancers like the rare and aggressive cancer, mesothelioma.

Another difference between asbestosis and mesothelioma is the location of the respective conditions:

• Asbestosis develops as swelling and scarring in the air sacs within the lungs.
• Mesothelioma develops in the outer lining of the lungs or other organs.

The characteristics are also quite different:

• Asbestosis is characterized by scarring of the lung tissue.
• Asbestosis can contribute to heart issues, such as high blood pressure that may be an indicator of the condition.
• Mesothelioma consists of small, widespread malignant tumors.

Survival rate is perhaps the most significant difference:

• With treatment, people with asbestosis can live for decades with this chronic disease.
• The 5-year survival rate for people with mesothelioma is 12 percent.

Similarities Between Mesothelioma vs. Asbestosis

Once asbestos fibers are inhaled, both asbestosis and mesothelioma often take decades to become symptomatic.

Following are some key similarities between mesothelioma and asbestos:

• Shared cause—Both diseases start after a person breathes in asbestos fibers.
• Delayed onset—Symptoms of asbestosis and mesothelioma can take more than 20 years to appear after exposure to asbestos.
• Common symptoms—Both conditions cause shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, fatigue, and weight loss.
• Misdiagnosis risk—Overlapping symptoms can sometimes lead to confusion between asbestosis and mesothelioma. A PET scan or MRI aids in the correct diagnosis, followed by a biopsy in mesothelioma cases.
• Occupational risk—People who work in shipbuilding, construction, or manufacturing face a higher risk for both conditions.
• Need for exposure history—Doctors rely on asbestos exposure history to help make an accurate diagnosis.

Fighting for Justice for Asbestos Victims

If you’ve been exposed to asbestos and developed mesothelioma or other related diseases, you deserve justice. Our team of dedicated asbestos attorneys has fought for victims across the country, holding negligent manufacturers and employers accountable. With decades of experience, we are committed to helping you and your family seek the compensation you deserve for asbestos-related diseases. If you’ve been affected, we can help.