Identifying Cases of Mesothelioma Involves Qualified Tests
Sunday, June 28th, 2009Mesotheliomawill show a few primary symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas main symptom is having trouble breathing as a consequence of pleural effusion ” the increase of fluid in the membrane, or pleura, around the lung. Another common symptomis chest pain because the tumor is attacking the chest wall. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats
The primary symptom of patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which is centralized in the abdomen, is abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.
It is important to note 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.
Mesothelioma cancer is hard to identify, because many symptoms are also associated with less serious conditions. These symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
- Running a temperature
- Upset stomach
- Hoarseness
- Having trouble swallowing
- Spitting up 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 sample of tissue from the suspicious area and examines it to return a highly accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are typically pain-free.
A CT scan (Computer Tomography is an option if you dont want 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 an advantage over biopsies by being easier and non-invasive, and they are considered an effective way of diagnosing the disease. Opinions vary whether a CT scan or biopsy is cheaper. If irregularities are detected, a biopsy may be needed on top of the CT scan to confirm whether or not the irregularity is a tumor, and if so, if the tumor is benign or malignant. 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 ensure they are not at risk to get the cancer or to catch the cancer early. Patients should be screened for mesothelioma if they have a history of asbestos exposure.
