The Map Magazine

Malignant mesotheliomawill show a few primary symptoms. The primary symptom of pleural mesothelioma is a lack of breath due to 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 most common sign of patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, which originates in the abdomen, is abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.

It is important to note that many of these symptoms may be caused by other conditions. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.

Pleural mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose, because less serious conditions also cause similar symptoms. Symptoms typical for mesothelioma:

• Having trouble breathing
• Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
• Running a temperature
• Vomiting
• Breathy voice
• Having trouble swallowing
• Coughing up blood

Self-diagnosis should never be attempted. People suffering from the above symptoms should remain calm and consult a doctor. The standard way to confirm the condition is with a biopsy. A pathologist removes a piece of tissue from the suspected area and examines it to return a highly accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are typically pain-free.

A CT scan (Computer Tomography is an option if you dont want a biopsy. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner is moved around the body to snap cross-sectional pictures. Sometimes, the patient ingests a dye that helps define the picture. CT scans have the advantage of being non-invasive and easier, and they are known to be an effective diagnostic tool. Beliefs vary whether a biopsy or scan is more cost-effective. If there are abnormalities, a biopsy may also be ordered to determine if a tumor exists, and if so, whether it is 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.

Mesothelioma can also be screened and then diagnosed by any of these methods. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical symptoms, to catch the cancer early or to make sure the patient is not otherwise in danger. People who need to be screened include those with a history of asbestos exposure..