Silicosis Versus Mesothelioma: Key Differences and Legal Options

Silicosis and mesothelioma are two of the most common and most serious occupational illnesses diagnosed in the United States each year. While the two are commonly conflated, they are very different illnesses with different causes. It’s important to understand the differences between silicosis and mesothelioma, what you can do if you are diagnosed with either condition, and the value of working with an experienced toxic exposure lawyer in your legal efforts.

Key Differences Between Silicosis Versus Mesothelioma

Silicosis and mesothelioma are both common occupational illnesses caused by inhalation of particles. Silicosis results from exposure to silica dust, while mesothelioma results from exposure to asbestos. Both of these conditions are serious, life-changing, and have potential grounds for legal action. However, while many people confuse the two conditions, they are quite different in several ways.

Both silicosis and mesothelioma have long latency periods, meaning the diseases often do not appear in noticeable ways until many years after exposure. When it comes to silicosis, the progression of the disease can escalate dramatically if the victim is regularly exposed to high levels of silica dust. The same can apply to mesothelioma, but it is also possible for someone to be exposed to asbestos particles and never develop this disease.

Mesothelioma is a form of lung cancer, and about 3,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year. Additionally, there are about 2,500 recorded deaths from mesothelioma yearly. Because this is a terminal form of cancer, radiation, chemotherapy, and other treatments can only slow the progression of the disease, increase survival time marginally, and preserve the patient’s quality of life.

Silicosis is also incurable, and it can eventually be fatal without intervention. However, early detection of the disease, appropriate treatment, and avoiding further exposure to silica dust can help the patient keep their symptoms in check and preserve their quality of life as much as possible.

Legal Options for Silicosis and Mesothelioma

One similarity between silicosis and mesothelioma is the fact that either condition can potentially form the basis of a toxic exposure claim. If you or a family member has been diagnosed with either condition and believe another party is to blame, such as a current or former employer, a product manufacturer, a business, or another entity, an experienced toxic exposure lawyer can help you build your case.

Both silicosis and mesothelioma cases are inherently difficult because they often require extensive research. You may need to review years of records and documentation in order to pinpoint the most likely cause of your condition. This is more common in mesothelioma cases as the disease takes a very long time to develop noticeably, while silicosis can progress more rapidly because of repeated high exposure to silica dust.

If you believe you have grounds to file a case for either silicosis or mesothelioma, it is crucial to hire an attorney who has proven experience handling cases like these. Both types of cases require extensive research, careful review of relevant laws and statutes, and close attention to detail when it comes to assessing a victim’s claimable damages.

Wallace & Graham can help with either type of case, so reach out to our team as quickly as possible to learn how we can assist you.

FAQs

Q: Is Silicosis the Same as Mesothelioma?

A: No, silicosis is not the same as mesothelioma. Silicosis is caused by exposure to silica dust, and mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos. Both diseases primarily result in damage to the lungs. Silicosis can cause permanent lung scarring called pulmonary fibrosis, while mesothelioma is a terminal form of lung cancer. Mesothelioma may also develop in the abdomen and other parts of the body, but lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form.

Q: Is Silicosis Curable?

A: No, silicosis is an incurable disease, and anywhere from 2,500 to 5,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year. Once a person has been diagnosed with silicosis, their treatment will focus on managing their symptoms and preventing further damage. They will need to avoid further silica dust exposure as much as possible and will likely face challenging medical complications. Oxygen therapy, medications, and surgical procedures are often required.

Q: Is Mesothelioma Curable?

A: No, mesothelioma is an incurable and terminal form of cancer. It will only cause noticeable symptoms after reaching an advanced stage, and at this point, treatment must focus on managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life as much as possible. More than 65% of mesothelioma patients who undergo chemotherapy survive for three or more years, and life expectancy can increase with early detection and appropriate treatments.

Q: Can You File a Lawsuit for Silicosis or Mesothelioma?

A: Yes, it is possible to file a lawsuit for silicosis or mesothelioma. These two diseases are some of the most common causes of toxic exposure lawsuits in the United States each year. Anyone diagnosed with either condition could have grounds to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits if they developed the condition from work, and they may also have grounds for civil action against specific employers, manufacturers, or other parties.

Q: Should I Hire a Lawyer for a Silicosis or Mesothelioma Case?

A: Yes, you should hire a lawyer for a silicosis or mesothelioma case. Either type of case can be inherently challenging in several ways. You may need to conduct an extensive review of various records to trace the source of your exposure. You will also need an attorney’s help to accurately calculate the total damages you are eligible to claim and maximize your recovery. Having legal counsel you trust will significantly improve your chances of success.

The attorneys at Wallace & Graham have years of experience representing clients in silicosis and mesothelioma cases throughout many states. It’s not only important to know the key differences between silicosis and mesothelioma, but also to know what to do if you are diagnosed with either condition. If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with either illness, contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our team and learn how we can help with your case.