Peritoneal Mesothelioma - Claims, Lawsuits & Settlement Practices

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer caused by repetitive exposure to asbestos. Products which contain asbestos commonly release small fibers which become airborne, and consequently become imbed in the lung. Over time - similar to microscopic needles - these fibers travel through the lung wall into the blood stream and may be carried to all parts of the anatomy.

The term "peritoneal" refers to the peritoneum which is a transparent membrane that lines the abdominal cavity, and covers most of the viscera. The peritoneum membrane is particularly susceptible to development of mesothelioma cancer.

Causes Of Action Based On Peritoneal Mesothelioma

The primary sources of recovery for victims suffering from peritoneal mesothelioma are based on either state or federal workers compensation acts. These acts typically cap damages at an extremely low level for employers, and may offer medical treatment. Importantly, third-party causes of action are frequently pursed based on product liability laws which create civil responsibility for designers, manufactures, wholesalers, retailers, and marketing firms who transact asbestos products.

By pursing both types of liability simultaneously, employees may receive medical treatment under workers compensation laws and eventually recover cap-free damages against third-party defendants.