Mesothelioma Stages & Staging Systems

There are four stages of mesothelioma that doctors use to identify the severity of this diagnosis, which are labeled as follows:  Stage I, II, III, or IV.  In other words, staging is an acceptable way for oncologists, or cancer doctors, to determine how advanced the disease is, how prevalent the tumors are, and to what extent the cancer has spread to other areas of the body.

Most people are aware of the fact that the lower the stage, the earlier the disease has been detected.  Moreover, at lower cancer stages, a person has more treatment options than those whose condition is at an advanced stage.

If you or a loved one was diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may have legal rights.At Stern Law, PLLC, we understand how devastating a cancer diagnosis can be, and as such, we want to help you fight for your right to receive the compensation you need for your illness.  You didn’t deserve mesothelioma, but you do deserve to receive the money you need to cover your medical expenses, living costs, and to safeguard your family’s financial future. Contact Stern Law, PLLC at (844) 808-7529 today to learn more about your legal rights and options.

The Four Stages of Cancer

• Stage I – during Stage I, the cancer is localized (meaning, it hasn’t spread) and surgical options are the most effective. Most often, people at this stage do not experience any symptoms, which makes detecting mesothelioma at this level highly unlikely.  At this point of the cancer’s development, tumors are located close to the original tumor, having only invaded one layer of the liming of the target organ, such as the lungs, heart or abdominal wall.  At this stage, surgery to remove the tumor is considered the first priority, with doctors typically recommending a combination of aggressive treatment such as radiation and chemotherapy.
• Stage II – at Stage II, the cancer has begun to spread however, surgery may still be an option. Symptoms at this stage are mild, but people may mistake them for signs of a more common illness such as a cold or the flu.  Note that symptoms vary depending upon where the mesothelioma is located (see our Mesothelioma Overview page for further information).
• Stage III – at Stage III, the cancer has spread to other areas of the body, including to the lymphatic system. These tumors are typically unresponsive to curative therapies such as surgery, so patients are typically relegated to palliative, or pain relieving, options.   Patients at Stage III may still seek chemotherapy and radiation, but these options may not be as successful as surgery.  Symptoms of the disease, which vary upon the location, are pretty pronounced at this stage, often leading undiagnosed patients to seek medical attention.
• Stage IV–at this level, the cancer has spread throughout the body through the bloodstream. Cancer may now be present on the liver, bones, brain, and other organs.  Symptoms are extremely severe at this point, and patients typically are considered terminal.  Palliative treatment options may be the sole option for Stage IV mesothelioma victims.

Early Detection is Vital

If you were exposed to asbestos, it is critical that you seek screening for asbestos-related conditions such as mesothelioma.  Even if you are without symptoms, the earlier you are diagnosed, the better the chances are of long term survival.  Furthermore, should you start developing any of the symptoms identified on our mesothelioma symptoms page and you had a history of asbestos exposure, seek medical attention immediately.

Get a Second Opinion

Not all oncologists are alike.  Meaning, even if you are diagnosed with mesothelioma or are suspected of having the condition, seek a second opinion from someone who is experienced in handling asbestos-related cancers.

Were You Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?  Contact Stern Law, PLLC Today

At Stern Law, PLLC, we understand the complexities associated with a mesothelioma diagnosis, and want to help.  We take the time you need to review your case, determine the sources of your exposure, and develop a plan of action to fight for the compensation you deserve.  Contact Stern Law, PLLC today at (844) 808-7529 to schedule your free consultation with one of our seasoned asbestos exposure attorneys.