{"id":353248,"date":"2016-04-04T10:46:44","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:46:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/injury\/product-liability\/diagnosis-and-treatment-of-mesothelioma.html"},"modified":"2023-12-01T09:21:39","modified_gmt":"2023-12-01T14:21:39","slug":"diagnosis-and-treatment-of-mesothelioma","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/diagnosis-and-treatment-of-mesothelioma.html","title":{"rendered":"Mesothelioma Diagnosis and Treatment"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">Mesothelioma Diagnosis and Treatment<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/christie-nicholson-j-d\/\">Christie Nicholson, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/oni-harton-j-d\/\">Oni Harton, J.D.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            December 01, 2023\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-key-takeaways fl-mb30\" data-testid=\"fl-key-takeaways\">\n    <div class=\"fl-card-content\">\n        <div class=\"fl-card-body fl-card-bg-teal fl-flex fl-flex-column\">\n                            <h2 class=\"fl-card-title fl-h2 fl-no-margin\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n                        <div data-testid=\"loading-message\" data-fui-focus-visible=\"\">\n<div>\n<div id=\"chatMessageResponser7r\" class=\"___1yop6mf f336tjw f9ijwd5 fz7g6wx fod5ikn f1s184ao\" aria-live=\"assertive\">\n<div class=\"___1j4t0a1 f1lmfglv f1abmfm4\" aria-hidden=\"false\" data-testid=\"markdown-reply\" data-message-type=\"Chat\">\n<div class=\"___stpibi0 f22iagw f1vx9l62 fk15e71 f1k953kz f137keqj f1rncccw f1stllg3 f1w4kmmc f1tric3v f10dk5ic fx8cdsv f16nlwsl f1eookvz fhjrts3 fqugt2f f10km5jb f18d18k8 f1v1vhmp f1hdmul3 f198vjnp f2dshw1 fjpjndq fnmj2pj ffrrb40 f1mon110 fhajzam fimndk6 fxv4dng fb1rn9k f59wlhv f1xmfh30 f18yf5o5 fmr6chf fw8qy2q ff161sd f1qr7t77 f1yyogn1 foogchg fp5872b f1tpb8gf f1hdgrc8 f1vatr43 frkxccd f9pdzkb f158oiaz ft5kggy f5l4ui7 f13j03li f18xdoka f8off4e f1go6zfc f128n2ra f1jpxw2j f1lwd9n0 fy0b8hm f1g2633v fx4kvgi fkvolse f1gxrt3a f1os76ua f1js9cnw f1g87ej0 freluf8 f1yggaq6 f2i3chp f1151osp florpoh f35kzfz ftp9m57 f1e288vi fz62hnz fixvuys f1nmofwh fc1c6mv f18a2er7 fhvkrdl fhxnn68 f1oce4bo fvhlfan f7tc0t0 f1ngf1n2 ffrzq6x f1yjiq2m f1aqdgql f1huvaf f10ij78l f1k94sa4 fkmfumq f1jvzkyl f1eu24ob f1xbfc1f fmf0lwf f107dsy8 f3w566c f4648sl f13zpkng f7unjfp f8p1rz fzu6h1w f1i1bi6h f1smo7hi f1sk1xod f1kgogdq f1gjktkp ft608jz f19dd9cz fg3xr24 fhd155k f1b8gl2e fg4b9ou flb4lo fdicbfk fgwcyh1 f1jbds0d f1fb9uea f1stuka4 fcrtu6g fwqh0xn f11w66yg f6e0e65 f1vvgu0 f1607507 f1m9bycv f1ntoah8 f1b694rt faql4r2 fpjuhzh fmavl6h\">\n<p>Mesothelioma diagnosis typically involves imaging tests and biopsies, followed by a referral to an oncologist for treatment planning. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or clinical trials, depending on the cancer\u2019s stage and the patient\u2019s overall health.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"___r3ho0x0 fyxfkj9 f1w1vubc f1mpe4l3 f1jlpb2r f1a3p1vp f1mk8lai frkrog8 fz5stix\" aria-live=\"assertive\" data-testid=\"announced-message\"><\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Asbestos-related diseases can be challenging to diagnose and treat. One of the most serious of the asbestos-related illnesses is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/mesothelioma.html\">mesothelioma<\/a>. Mesothelioma\u00a0is a rare form of cancer that affects the protective lining of your internal organs.<\/p>\n<p>This disease becomes dangerous when cancerous cells spread to other body parts. It can take decades before you notice the symptoms of mesothelioma. It usually takes several rounds of diagnostic tests, such as a biopsy or CT scan, before your doctor can confirm your illness.<\/p>\n<p>If you believe that you or a loved one has developed an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/illnesses-associated-with-asbestos-exposure.html\">asbestos-related illness<\/a>, you should contact a healthcare provider immediately. You should also speak to a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/personal-injury-plaintiff\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">personal injury lawyer<\/a> to determine if you have a potential legal claim. An experienced attorney can guide you through the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54028037\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54028037\">legal process<\/span> while prioritizing your medical care.<\/p>\n<h2>Types of Mesothelioma<\/h2>\n<p>Most of the research on this topic refers to the illness as mesothelioma. However, there are several types of mesothelioma. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will depend on the type of cancer you have.<\/p>\n<p>The most common <a href=\"https:\/\/www.webmd.com\/cancer\/ss\/slideshow-malignant-mesothelioma\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">types of mesothelioma<\/a> include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Peritoneal mesothelioma (Mesothelioma of the peritoneum)<\/li>\n<li>Malignant pleural mesothelioma<\/li>\n<li>Mesothelioma of the pericardium<\/li>\n<li>Testicular mesothelioma<\/li>\n<li>Mesothelioma of the mediastinum<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>To determine the exact nature of your illness, your doctor may want you to undergo a thoracotomy (thoracoscopic surgery), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesothelioma.com\/treatment\/surgery\/pleurectomy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">pleurectomy<\/a>, pneumonectomy, or endoscopic surgery. They are looking for fluid buildup in your lungs or chest cavity.<\/p>\n<h2>Symptoms and Risk Factors of Mesothelioma<\/h2>\n<p>Depending on the type of mesothelioma, you will exhibit specific symptoms. If you identify any of these symptoms, inform your doctor immediately. These symptoms may be due to a benign cause such as asthma or chest cold. Or it could be something more serious.<\/p>\n<p>Some of the symptoms of mesothelioma include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Coughing<\/li>\n<li>Shortness of breath<\/li>\n<li>Chest pain<\/li>\n<li>Weight loss<\/li>\n<li>Abdominal pain<\/li>\n<li>Abdominal swelling<\/li>\n<li>Lumps in your abdomen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Any of these things could be a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/mesothelioma-and-asbestos.html\">sign of mesothelioma<\/a>. Don&#8217;t put off seeing your doctor. This is a fast-moving cancer, and early diagnosis is your best chance of extending your life or making a recovery.<\/p>\n<h2>Mesothelioma Diagnosis<\/h2>\n<p>If your healthcare provider suspects you have mesothelioma, they will usually ask you if you <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/who-is-at-risk-for-asbestos-related-illnesses.html\">work with or near asbestos<\/a>. This is because asbestos exposure is the number one cause of this form of cancer.<\/p>\n<p>Once your doctor reviews your work history, they&#8217;ll need to do a physical exam and run specific diagnostic tests. According to the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cancer.org\/cancer\/types\/malignant-mesothelioma\/detection-diagnosis-staging\/how-diagnosed.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">American Cancer Society<\/a>, these tests may include one or more of the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Several types of biopsies<\/b>: The doctor will use a small needle to sample tissue and fluid from your body. They will then look at the cells under a microscope to determine if any are cancerous. A surgical biopsy may require that you stay at least one night in the hospital. However, most biopsies are done quickly on an outpatient basis.<\/li>\n<li><b>Thoracentesis<\/b>: The lab technician will take a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesotheliomahope.com\/treatment\/surgery\/thoracentesis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">fluid sample<\/a> from your chest cavity and check for mesothelioma cells.<\/li>\n<li><b>Chest X-ray<\/b>: This is another imaging test where the lab technician will take a picture of your chest to look for abnormalities or masses (tumors).<\/li>\n<li><b>Computer tomography (CT) scan<\/b>: This test takes an x-ray of your body, split left and right. It can help determine if your cancer has spread or the tumors are shrinking.<\/li>\n<li><b>Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan<\/b>: This test takes images of your soft tissue, using radio waves and strong magnets rather than an X-ray. The doctor will inject dye into your lungs, which travels through your body. Areas of concern will appear darker than other sections.<\/li>\n<li><b>Positron Emission Tomography (PET\/CT) Scan<\/b>: This test uses radioactive sugar to highlight cancer cells. Since these cells absorb more radioactivity, it will make them stand out to your oncologist.<\/li>\n<li><b>Blood tests<\/b>: In some cases, your physician will order blood tests. These tests will look for high levels of fibulin-3 or soluble mesothelin-related peptides (SMRIs).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Depending on the results of these tests, the doctor may schedule follow-up tests later, or they may want to design a treatment plan immediately.<\/p>\n<h3>What Happens if the Test Results Are Suspicious?<\/h3>\n<p>If one or more of these tests identify something suspicious, your healthcare provider will likely recommend a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.webmd.com\/cancer\/what-is-a-biopsy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">second biopsy<\/a> to confirm a diagnosis. A biopsy may be either a needle biopsy or an open biopsy.<\/p>\n<p>In a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/tests-procedures\/needle-biopsy\/about\/pac-20394749\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">needle biopsy<\/a>, the lab technician removes fluid from your tumor and examines it for cancerous cells. In an open biopsy, a surgeon makes a small incision in the chest wall or abdominal cavity and removes a sample of tissue to examine for cancerous cells.<\/p>\n<p>Once your pathologist obtains the fluid or tissue sample, they&#8217;ll examine it to determine whether the cells have a type of cancer or disease.<\/p>\n<p>After a positive mesothelioma diagnosis by the pathologist, your doctor will refer you to an oncology specialist to recommend an appropriate course of treatment.<\/p>\n<h2>Talk to Your Doctor About Asbestos Exposure<\/h2>\n<p>If your healthcare provider suspects you have mesothelioma or some other asbestos-related illness, they will attempt to identify the possibility of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/who-is-at-risk-for-asbestos-related-illnesses.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">asbestos exposure<\/a>. They&#8217;ll review your medical, work, and environmental history.<\/p>\n<p>If your doctor can confirm asbestos exposure through your job, you may be eligible for\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation.html\">workers&#8217; compensation<\/a>\u00a0benefits. You&#8217;ll likely want to hire a personal injury attorney to handle your claim. You may receive significant compensation depending on the nature and extent of your illness.<\/p>\n<h2>Mesothelioma Treatment Options<\/h2>\n<p>If you receive a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/mesothelioma\/diagnosis-treatment\/drc-20375028\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">diagnosis of mesothelioma<\/a>, your primary healthcare provider will refer you to an oncologist for treatment. An oncologist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of cancer. Oncologists often specialize in certain types of cancer, so you should consider looking for those specializing in mesothelioma or lung cancer.<\/p>\n<p>For a patient with a mesothelioma diagnosis, the treatment options depend on their overall health and the stage of their illness.<\/p>\n<p>Doctors have developed <a href=\"https:\/\/asj.amegroups.org\/article\/view\/57545\/html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">three different staging systems<\/a> for mesothelioma.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Butchart System<\/b>: This looks at the extent of the primary tumor mass<\/li>\n<li><b>TNM System<\/b>: Consider the tumor&#8217;s mass, lymph node involvement, and metastasis<\/li>\n<li><b>Brigham system<\/b>: This looks at the ability to remove the tumors and lymph node involvement surgically<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The stage of your illness will determine your treatment options.<\/p>\n<h3>Reviewing Your Treatment Options<\/h3>\n<p>After assessing your overall health and the stage of your disease, your oncologist will review the treatment options with you. Typically, these involve surgery, chemotherapy, clinical trials, or radiation.<\/p>\n<p>Some oncologists may recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cancer.org\/cancer\/managing-cancer\/treatment-types\/immunotherapy.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">immunotherapy<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/vaccines-blood-biologics\/cellular-gene-therapy-products\/what-gene-therapy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">gene therapy<\/a> in some instances. Generally speaking, isolated cancers are much easier to treat than cancers that have spread to different body parts (metastasized).<\/p>\n<p>Because there are various\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.cancer.gov\/cancertopics\/pdq\/treatment\/malignantmesothelioma\/patient\/page4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">treatment options<\/a>\u00a0available, don&#8217;t hesitate to ask about the pros and cons of each option. Therapeutic methods constantly change, so finding the best treatment option for your situation can make all the difference.<\/p>\n<h2>Three Treatment Options for Mesothelioma Patients: Chemo, Surgery and Clinical Trials<\/h2>\n<p>There are a variety of treatment options for any type of cancer, including mesothelioma. Unfortunately, some treatment options are ineffective for this type of illness. For example, oncologists use radiation to shrink tumors. However, with mesothelioma, the tumors are not usually separate or distinct, so it&#8217;s hard to direct the radiation to the tumors.<\/p>\n<p>The various treatment options for mesothelioma include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cancer.org\/cancer\/types\/malignant-mesothelioma\/treating\/radiation.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Radiation therapy<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cancer.org\/cancer\/types\/malignant-mesothelioma\/treating\/chemotherapy.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chemotherapy<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cancer.org\/cancer\/types\/malignant-mesothelioma\/treating\/surgery.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Surgery<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/mesothelioma\/diagnosis-treatment\/drc-20375028#:~:text=Clinical%20trials%20are%20studies%20of%20new%20mesothelioma%20treatment,about%20what%20clinical%20trials%20are%20open%20to%20you.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Clinical trials<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Your oncologist and care team will decide which measures they want to take to attack your cancer, but in some instances, the only remedies available are comfort measures, such as making you as comfortable as you can so you can enjoy your final days.<\/p>\n<h2>Palliative Care Options<\/h2>\n<p>If your cancer is untreatable, your doctor can use the above-described treatment options to delay death. Usually, they will offer palliative care toward the end so that you aren&#8217;t in pain. It will also provide you with a better quality of life.<\/p>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cancer.org\/cancer\/types\/malignant-mesothelioma\/treating\/palliative-procedures.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">palliative care<\/a>\u00a0options for mesothelioma patients include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Shunt placement<\/b>: The shunt allows fluid to move from one body part to another.<\/li>\n<li><b>Catheter<\/b>: One end of the catheter tube is in your chest or abdomen, and the other is outside your body. This allows the fluid in your lungs or chest to drain from your body.<\/li>\n<li><b>Pleurodesis<\/b>: This keeps fluid from building up in your chest.<\/li>\n<li><b>Removing fluid<\/b>: There are a few ways to remove fluid from your body. This includes thoracentesis, paracentesis, and pericardiocentesis.<\/li>\n<li><b>Pain management<\/b>: As your illness worsens, the doctors and hospice workers will administer higher doses of pain medication to ease your discomfort.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Mesothelioma Recovery After Treatment<\/h2>\n<p>If you go into remission from mesothelioma, you will have to continue to get checked for years afterward. Your oncology team will monitor your cancer recurrence for many years. You may also have to live with significant lung problems.<\/p>\n<h2>Mesothelioma Diagnosis? Get Expert Legal Advice Today<\/h2>\n<p>If you receive a diagnosis of mesothelioma, treatment is often both physically and emotionally draining. It is also costly. By filing a mesothelioma claim, you or your loved one can receive compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.<\/p>\n<p>You may have a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/how-to-choose-an-asbestos-or-mesothelioma-lawyer.html\">legal claim<\/a>\u00a0if you demonstrate that a third party is responsible for your illness. Your personal injury lawyer will pursue this third party for financial compensation.<\/p>\n<p>Before moving forward with your claim, meet with an\u00a0asbestos claim attorney. FindLaw&#8217;s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/asbestos-mesothelioma\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">attorney directory<\/a> can get you started. Select your state or city to review contact and ratings information for local experts. Your search results will also link you to additional details about the attorneys\u2019 experience with mesothelioma cases.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" 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20.6839 11.2044 21 12 21L16 12V0.999995H4.72003C4.2377 0.994543 3.76965 1.16359 3.40212 1.47599C3.0346 1.78839 2.79235 2.22309 2.72003 2.7L1.34003 11.7C1.29652 11.9866 1.31586 12.2793 1.39669 12.5577C1.47753 12.8362 1.61793 13.0937 1.80817 13.3125C1.99842 13.5313 2.23395 13.7061 2.49846 13.8248C2.76297 13.9435 3.05012 14.0033 3.34003 14H9.00003Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3423\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"\/>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n    <span class=\"was-this-helpful__taken-action fl-text-sm-bold\"><\/span>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-container\">\n        <div 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                    class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                        >Easy to understand<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Solved my problem\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                        >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div 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Many attorneys offer free consultations.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/personal-injury-plaintiff\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL3905\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription fl-mb30\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\"\n                src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745902396\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1.png?_i=AA\"\n                alt=\"\"\n                loading=\"lazy\"\n            \/>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-content fl-flex fl-flex-wrap\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-text fl-mb25\">\n            <h4 class=\"fl-no-margin\">Enter your email address to subscribe<\/h4>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <form class=\"email-subscription-content-form\">\n            <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"distributionList\" value=\"latl\" \/>\n            <label for=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" class=\"fl-text-sm-bold\">Email (Required)<\/label>\n            <div class=\"email-subscription-content-form-group\">\n                <input id=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" name=\"email\" autocomplete=\"email\"\/>\n                <button type=\"submit\" aria-label=\"Submit\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-success subscribe-success-message fl-text-sm-bold\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"status\">Thank you for subscribing!<\/p>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-error subscribe-error-message fl-text-sm-bold\" role=\"alert\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/p>\n\n            <div id=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha\" class=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha subscribe-recaptcha\"\n                data-sitekey=\"0x4AAAAAAABGBEkK9kEeKxO-\"><\/div>\n        <\/form>\n\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-footer fl-text-sm\">\n            <p><a href=\"https:\/\/newsletters.findlaw.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/can-i-sue.html\">\n                        Can I Sue?\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation.html\">\n                        Workers&#8217; 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Find information on treatment options, staging, and how to get legal help.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":353191,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2734],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-353248","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-injury"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353248","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=353248"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353248\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":398158,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353248\/revisions\/398158"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353191"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=353248"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=353248"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=353248"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=353248"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=353248"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}