A Primer to the Symptoms and Tests for Diagnosis of Malignant Mesothelioma
Cancer of the mesothelium has a few major symptoms. The primary symptom of pleural mesothelioma is a lack of breath as a consequence of pleural effusion ” the buildup of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. The second 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 main indicatorof patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which originates in the abdomen, is the swelling of the abdomen because of fluid accumulation (ascites), abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.
Its vital to know that these symptoms could be caused by a myriad of diseases or conditions. However, if you have been exposed to asbestos and have these symptoms, you should visit a doctor.
Mesothelioma cancer is difficult to diagnose, because the symptoms are also experienced in less serious health issues. Symptoms typical for mesothelioma:
- Difficulty breathing
- Lower back or chest pains from a buildup of fluid in the pleura
- Burning up
- Vomiting
- Breathy voice
- Having trouble swallowing
- Coughing 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. Biopsies are generally not painful.
Another option is a CT (Computed Tomography) scan. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner is moved around the body to snap cross-sectional pictures. 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 recognized as being effective in diagnosis. Opinions vary whether a CT scan or biopsy is cheaper. If irregularities are detected, a biopsy may also be needed to know if the abnormality is a tumor, and if thats the case, if its malignant or benign. It is also possible to diagnose pleural mesothelioma 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. 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 should be screened for mesothelioma if they have a history of asbestos exposure.
