Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Mesothelioma is not always diagnosed because the cancer is still unrecognizable. A mesothelioma diagnosis may often be classified as another condition because the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses. Even today, a mesothelioma diagnosis can be classified as lung cancer, which is an entirely different disease. Mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the chest, lung, and abdominal cavity and has been linked to high levels of workplace and non-occupational exposure to asbestos. (See Mesothelioma Prognosis)

A mesothelioma diagnosis most commonly begins with a complete medical history review and physical examination of a patient who suffers from mesothelioma symptoms and signs including shortness of breath, chest pains, swollen abdomen, and more. The physical exam should involve a number of imaging tests to search for suspicious cell formation. These tests may include:

X-rays Chest or abdomen x-rays can reveal fluid build-up, masses, or signs of non-cancerous pleural disease.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan A series of detailed images of the body. CT scans can locate pleural disease, chest wall invasions, and can guide fine needle aspiration tests. However, CT scans cannot differentiate between benign or malignant mesothelioma.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) MRI scans use a computer-linked magnet to photograph details of the inside of the body and can determine the severity of a tumor.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) PET imaging tests have become one of the most efficient ways of diagnosing mesothelioma tumors as well as determining the staging of the cancer.

Biopsy A needle biopsy is almost always necessary to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis. In a biopsy, a sample of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to test for cancer cells. Depending on the location of the abnormal area, a biopsy can be done in different ways including:

Thoracoscopy - If the cancer is located in the pleura, a small incision will be made through the chest wall and a thoracoscope will be inserted to obtain a tissue sample.

Peritoneoscopy If the cancer is in the abdominal cavity, a doctor will use a peritoneoscope to obtain sample tissue for further examination.

If you or a loved one experience any symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

Please contact us today to learn more information about mesothelioma diagnosis or to speak with a qualified and experienced mesothelioma attorney who will protect your legal rights and interests.