| Diagnosis Cancer of the Mesothelium Involves Qualified Expertise |
| 06.30.09 | |
Malignant mesotheliomawill show a few primary symptoms. The main symptom of pleural mesothelioma is a lack of breath as a consequence of pleural effusion ” the increase of fluid in the membrane, or pleura, around the lung. The next most common symptomis chest pain due to the tumor invading the chest wall. Symptoms may also include fatigue, loss of weight and night sweats
The primary symptom of patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, which begins in the abdomen, is fluid buildup (known as ascites) in the abdomen causing abdominal swelling, bowel obstruction, and stomach pain.
It is important to note that other afflictions or diseases could be causing these symptoms. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.
Peritoneal mesothelioma is problematic to diagnose, because many symptoms are also associated with less serious conditions. Symptoms typical for mesothelioma:
- Having trouble breathing
- Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
- Burning up
- Vomiting
- Hoarseness
- Difficulty swallowing
- Coughing up blood
Self-diagnosis should never be attempted. One suffering from any of the above symptoms should see a doctor and remain calm. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist takes a small tissue sample from the suspicious area and performs an examination that will result in a very accurate diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.
Another option is a CT (Computed Tomography) scan. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner takes many cross-sectional images as it rotates around the body. A patient might have to ingest a dye to help define the pictures. CT scans have an advantage over biopsies by being easier and non-invasive, and they are considered an effective way of diagnosing the disease. Opinion is divided as to whether the scan is more or less cost-effective than a biopsy. If there are irregularities, a biopsy may be needed on top of the CT scan to confirm whether or not the irregularity is a tumor, and if so, whether it is malignant or benign. Pleural mesothelioma can also be diagnosed by looking for cancer cells in a sample of fluid from the pleura.
Any of these methods may also be used to screen for mesothelioma. Patients who may think they are at risk but do not display any symptoms are typically screened, to catch the cancer early or to make sure the patient is not otherwise in danger. Patients who have in their past inhaled asbestos, should be screened for mesothelioma.
