Diagnosis Cancer of the Mesothelium Involves Qualified Screening Methods
Malignant mesotheliomahas a few primary symptoms. The main symptom of pleural mesothelioma is shortness of breath due to pleural effusion ” the increase of fluid in the membrane, or pleura, around the lung. The second most common symptomis chest pain due to the tumor invading the chest wall. Additional symptoms include night sweats, weight loss and exhaustion.
The most common sign of patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which begins in the abdomen, is fluid buildup (known as ascites) in the abdomen causing abdominal swelling, abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.
It is important to note that many of these symptoms may be caused by other conditions. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.
Mesothelioma is hard to identify, because the symptoms are also experienced in less serious health issues. Symptoms typical for mesothelioma:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest or lower back pains due to accumulated fluid in the pleura
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Breathy voice
- Having trouble swallowing
- Coughing blood
Do not attempt self-diagnosis. People suffering from the above symptoms should remain calm and consult a doctor. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist takes a small tissue sample from the suspicious area and examines it to return a highly accurate diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.
CT scans (Computed Tomography) are an option to avoid a biopsy. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner takes many cross-sectional images as it rotates around the body. Once in a while, a dye is ingested by the patient to help define the images. CT scans have the advantage of being non-invasive and easier, and they are recognized as being effective in diagnosis. Beliefs vary whether a biopsy or scan is more cost-effective. If there are abnormalities, a biopsy may also be ordered to determine if a tumor exists, and if so, whether it is malignant or benign. Diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma is also possible by looking for cancer cells in a sample of fluid from the pleura.
These methods can also diagnose and screen patients for mesothelioma. Screening is when patients who may suspect they are at risk are tested for the condition without displaying any symptoms, 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.
