A Primer to the Indicators and Diagnosis Cancer of the Mesothelium
12/06/2009 5:37
on: Online Health, School of Science
Mesothelioma is known to have a few primary symptoms. The main symptom of pleural mesothelioma is a lack of breath caused by pleural effusion ” the accumulation 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 primary symptomof patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which begins in the abdomen, is fluid buildup (known as ascites) in the abdomen causing abdominal swelling, abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.
It is key to understand that these symptoms could be caused by a myriad of diseases or conditions. Nevertheless, you should see a doctor if you have been exposed to asbestos and have experienced any of these symptoms.
Peritoneal mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose, because many symptoms are also associated with less serious conditions. Symptoms typical for mesothelioma:
- Shortness of breath
- Lower back or chest pains from a buildup of fluid in the pleura
- Running a temperature
- Upset stomach
- Hoarseness
- Difficulty swallowing
- Coughing up blood
Do not attempt self-diagnosis. 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 removes a piece of tissue from the suspicious area and examines the biopsy which results in a very precise diagnosis. Biopsies are generally not painful.
Another option is a CT (Computed Tomography) scan. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner takes many cross-sectional images as it rotates around the body. Sometimes, the patient ingests a dye that helps define the picture. CT scans might be advantageous because of their simplistic and non-invasive nature, 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 ordered to determine if a tumor exists, and if so, if the tumor is benign or malignant. Pleural mesothelioma can also be diagnosed by taking a sample of fluid from the pleura and testing it for the presence of cancer cells.
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. People who need to be screened include those with a history of asbestos exposure..











