The Management Consulting Group

Cancer of the mesotheliumhas a few primary symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas primary symptom is shortness of breath as a consequence of pleural effusion ” fluid being built up in the pleura, or membrane, encompassing the lung. The next 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 most common sign of patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which is centralized in the abdomen, is fluid buildup (known as ascites) in the abdomen causing abdominal swelling, pain in the abdomen, and blockage of the bowel.

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 problematic to diagnose, because less serious conditions also cause similar symptoms. These symptoms include:

• Having trouble breathing
• Lower back or chest pains from a buildup of fluid in the pleura
• Burning up
• Vomiting
• Raspy voice
• Having trouble swallowing
• Coughing blood

One should not self-diagnose themselves. Sufferers of the above symptoms should not panic, and should consult their doctor. The standard way to confirm the condition is with a biopsy. A pathologist takes a small tissue sample from the suspected region 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 takes many cross-sectional images as it rotates around the body. Once in a while, a dye is ingested by the patient to help define the images. CT scans have the advantage of being non-invasive and easier, and they are considered an effective way of diagnosing the disease. Opinion is divided as to whether the scan is more or less cost-effective than a biopsy. If there are abnormalities, a biopsy may also be ordered to determine if a tumor exists, and if so, if the tumor is benign or malignant. It is also possible to diagnose pleural mesothelioma by testing a sample of fluid from the pleura for cancer cells.

Mesothelioma can also be screened and then diagnosed by any of these methods. Patients who may think they are at risk but do not display any symptoms are typically screened, 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..