The Difficulty in Detecting Mesothelioma

The diagnosis of mesothelioma is difficult. Mesothelioma can take up to fifteen to twenty years before it presents itself. By the time it is diagnosed; it is usually in its latter stages and there is little that can be done for the individual. Additionally, many doctors are unfamiliar with distinguishing this cancer’s symptoms with those of other diseases. However, if a patient notes a history of asbestos exposure or contamination to his/her doctor, then the doctor will be able to perform the proper exams and tests used to diagnosis Mesothelioma. There are many symptoms that become clear in mesothelioma patients, many of which are common symptoms in a variety of illnesses and diseases.

There are three types of mesothelioma, each presenting with their own set of symptoms. The first type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the respiratory system, resulting in
an accumulation of fluid within the lung lining and the chest cavity. The symptoms that are commonly associated with pleural mesothelioma include: persistent coughing, difficulty swallowing, facial swelling, weight loss, fever, rasping, coughing up blood and shortness of breath

The other type of mesothelioma is peritoneal mesothelioma. This type affects the abdominal lining and abdominal cavity. Its symptoms include the following: abdominal pains, fatigue, weight loss, nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal swelling and bowel obstruction

Finally, the third type of mesothelioma is pericardial mesothelioma. This type affects the lining of the heart. Symptoms for pericardial mesothelioma are the following: persistent coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain and palpitations.

If patients note to their doctor possible exposure to asbestos, then the doctor will begin to test the tissue areas around the linings surrounding the stomach, heart and lungs. The initial exam usually begins with x-rays of the chest and lungs, followed by CAT scans and MRI tests. These tests should be able to confirm or deny the presence of mesothelioma. They can also help in determining the exact size and location of any tumors that may have developed as a result of the disease.

Once the affected area is located, doctors will order a biopsy of the area. A biopsy is used to determine what type of Mesothelioma is present. Although the biopsy is the most effective way in determining mesothelioma, malignant mesothelioma cells can appear similar to those of other types of cancer cells. Therefore, special laboratory tests are performed, to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma, so that the proper treatment plan can be prescribed.

The critical factor in diagnosing mesothelioma remains with the patient. It is extremely important that patients inform their doctors if they have worked with or had contact with asbestos at any time in their lives so that the proper treatments can be prescribed earlier.

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Rick has been writing about asbestos and mesothelioma cancer for 12 years. His work is published all over the internet. For more information please visit the above links.

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