Firm Logo
412-903-9620
Free Consultation

What Is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. It develops in the thin layers of tissue — called the mesothelium — that surround and protect vital organs such as the lungs, abdomen, heart, and testicles.

This disease can take decades to develop after exposure, which means many people are diagnosed long after they last worked around asbestos. While there is currently no cure, early detection and treatment can extend life expectancy and improve quality of life.

At Savinis, Kane, & Gallucci, LLC, we understand how overwhelming a mesothelioma diagnosis can be. Our law firm is dedicated to helping individuals and families throughout Pennsylvania and across the United States secure the justice and financial support they deserve after asbestos exposure.

Understanding How Mesothelioma Develops

When asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they can lodge in the body’s internal tissues. Over time, the fibers irritate healthy cells, cause scarring, and trigger genetic changes that can lead to cancer. Because mesothelioma can take 20 to 50 years to develop, many people don’t connect their illness to the asbestos exposure they experienced decades earlier.

To learn more about how asbestos causes cancer, visit our Causes of Mesothelioma page.

Where Mesothelioma Occurs in the Body

There are several types of mesothelioma, depending on where it develops:

Learn more about these different types on our Types of Mesothelioma page.

Common Symptoms and Diagnosis

Mesothelioma symptoms can vary depending on the affected area of the body, but common warning signs include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest or abdominal pain
  • Fatigue and loss of appetite
  • Persistent coughing
  • Unexplained weight loss

Because these symptoms can resemble less serious illnesses, many patients aren’t diagnosed until the disease has progressed. You can learn more about identifying early warning signs on our Mesothelioma Symptoms page.

If you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms and have a history of asbestos exposure, it’s critical to see a doctor who specializes in asbestos-related diseases.

Prognosis and Treatment Options

While mesothelioma remains a serious illness, medical advances have improved both life expectancy and quality of life for patients. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy are often used in combination to control the disease and relieve symptoms.

Learn more about treatment options and what to expect on our Mesothelioma Prognosis & Treatment page.

Why Choose Savinis, Kane, & Gallucci, LLC

At Savinis, Kane, & Gallucci, we have built our reputation on standing up for asbestos victims and their families. Our attorneys have spent decades holding negligent companies accountable for exposing workers and consumers to asbestos-containing products without adequate warnings or protection.

When you work with our firm, you can expect:

  • Personalized guidance — We take the time to understand your diagnosis, exposure history, and family’s needs.
  • Proven experience — Our legal team has handled hundreds of asbestos and mesothelioma claims across Pennsylvania and beyond.
  • No upfront costs — You pay nothing unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.

We know this fight is about more than just money — it’s about justice, accountability, and peace of mind for you and your family.

Taking the Next Step Toward Justice

If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to act quickly. Legal claims are time-sensitive, and evidence about asbestos exposure can become harder to locate as time passes.

Our firm can investigate where and how your exposure occurred, identify responsible parties, and pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to under the law.

Call 412-903-9620 today or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential consultation. At Savinis, Kane, & Gallucci, LLC, we’re here to help you understand your diagnosis, your legal rights, and your next steps toward justice.