497Diagnosing Abnormal Cell Growth of Mesothelioma Means Medical Expertise
posted on June 27th, 2009
Cancer of the mesotheliumhas a few major symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas primary symptom is a lack of breath caused by pleural effusion ” the buildup of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. The second most common symptomis chest pain because the tumor is attacking the chest wall. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats
The main indicator of patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which originates in the abdomen, is the swelling of the abdomen because of fluid accumulation (ascites), bowel obstruction, and stomach pain.
It is important to note 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.
Pleural mesothelioma cancer is problematic to diagnose, because many symptoms are also associated with less serious conditions. These symptoms include:
- Having trouble breathing
- Chest or lower back pains due to accumulated fluid in the pleura
- Running a temperature
- Nausea
- Raspy voice
- Having trouble swallowing
- Spitting up blood
Do not attempt self-diagnosis. One suffering from any of the above symptoms should see a doctor and remain calm. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist takes a small tissue sample from the suspicious area and performs an examination that will result in a very accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are generally not painful.
CT scans (Computed Tomography) are an option to avoid 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 the advantage of being non-invasive and easier, 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 be needed on top of the CT scan to confirm whether or not the irregularity is a tumor, and if thats the case, if its malignant or benign. Diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma is also possible 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. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical symptoms, to make sure they are not in danger or to catch the cancer as early as possible. Patients who have in their past inhaled asbestos, should be screened for mesothelioma.
