How to Diagnose Mesothelioma

By Tonya Nash

Overview

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that is highly associated with exposure to asbestos. Diagnosing mesothelioma can be difficult due to the similarity in symptoms with other diseases and conditions. mesothelioma is often found in an advanced stage because it is hard to detect in its earlier stages. There are about 2500 to 3000 new cases that occur each year. It takes place more often in persons over the age of 50. Men are more likely to be diagnosed with mesothelioma than women, which is likely due to occupational exposure.

Step 1

Set up an appointment with your doctor. A detailed medical history will be taken. Questions will be asked about your exposure to asbestos. Your doctor will inquire as to what symptoms you have had.
Step 2

Based upon your symptoms and medical history, your doctor will look for signs of a certain type of mesothelioma. The three types of mesothelioma are pleural, peritoneal and pericardial. Pleural is the most common and occurs within 70% of persons with mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the lungs. Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the abdominal cavity. Pericardial mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the heart.

Step 3

Your doctor may request an order for x-rays, CAT scan, or MRI. These tests will be done to see if there are any abnormalities or fluid buildup in the lungs, abdomen, or heart. If there are any abnormalities detected on your x-rays, CAT scan, or MRI, your doctor will proceed with a biopsy.
Step 4

A biopsy will be performed. This is the best way to diagnose mesothelioma. There are two ways a biopsy can be done to test for mesothelioma. The first way is by doing a thorocoscopy, which occurs when a doctor looks into the chest cavity with a thoracoscope. The thoracoscope is placed in the chest between two ribs. The second way is with a peritoneoscopy. This is done by inserting a peritoneoscope through the abdomen. The doctor will take a small piece of tissue from either the chest cavity or abdomen to examine it and see if there are any cancer cells.
Step 5

Results of the biopsy will be examined. The doctor makes a decision regarding mesothelioma depending on the results of the biopsy. If it is found to be mesothelioma, the stage of cancer will need to be determined for effective treatment.

Skill: Moderately Challenging
Tip: It often occurs that symptoms of mesothelioma do not begin until many years after exposure. If you believe that you have been exposed to asbestos, discuss your concerns with your doctor.
Warning:
Those that work at shipyards and construction sites are at a greater risk for exposure to asbestos. Fibers of asbestos can be unintentionally carried home on your clothing and hair, which can increase the risk of exposure to asbestos to your family members.

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