Medical Tests and Symptoms Give Clues into Diagnosis of Mesothelioma
Malignant mesothelioma has a few primary symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas primary symptom is having trouble breathing caused by pleural effusion ” the buildup of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. Another common symptomis chest pain because the chest wall is being attacked by the tumor. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats
The most common signof patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, which originates in the abdomen, is abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.
It is key to understand that these symptoms could be caused by a myriad of diseases or conditions. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.
Malignant mesothelioma is problematic to diagnose, because less serious conditions also cause similar symptoms. Typical symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
- Burning up
- Upset stomach
- Raspy voice
- Having trouble swallowing
- Spitting up blood
One should not self-diagnose themselves. Sufferers of the above symptoms should not panic, and should consult their doctor. Performing a biopsy is the standard way to confirm the condition. A pathologist takes a sample of tissue from the suspected region and performs an examination that will result in a very accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are typically pain-free.
CT scans (Computed Tomography) are an option to avoid a biopsy. A CT scan is basically an X-ray procedure where cross-sectional images are taken as a scanner rotates around the body. A patient might have to ingest a dye to help define the pictures. CT scans have the advantage of being non-invasive and easier, and they are known to be an effective diagnostic tool. Opinions vary whether a CT scan or biopsy is cheaper. If there are irregularities, a biopsy may also be needed to know if the abnormality is a tumor, and if thats the case, if its malignant or benign. Diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma is also possible by taking a sample of fluid from the pleura and testing it for the presence of cancer cells.
Any of these methods may also be used to screen for mesothelioma. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical symptoms, to ensure they are not at risk to get the cancer or to catch the cancer early. People who need to be screened include those with a history of asbestos exposure..
