The Multitopic Blog

Since the symptoms of mesothelioma are akin to those of numerous other conditions, diagnosing mesotheolima becomes quite a problem. A person’s diagnosis begins with a review of his medical history and any record of exposure to asbestos may increase the suspicion of the doctors towards mesothelioma.

A physical examination is followed by chest X-ray and quite often by lung function tests. An X-ray may show pleural thickening which is quite common after exposure to asbestos and this finding further increases suspicion of mesothelioma. A CT (or CAT) scan or an MRI is usually performed. A process called cytology is performed whereby abnormal cells may be detected if a large amount of fluid is present, which is then aspirated with a syringe. The drainage of pleural fluid may be done with the help of a pleural tap or a chest drain, while a paracentesis or ascetic drain is used in ascites and a pericardiocentesis is resorted to in case of a pericardial effusion. If malignant cells are absent it makes the risk of mesothileoma much less likely especially in case of an alternative diagnosis, although it does not completely rule out the possibility.

However, in case the cytology is suspicious or a plaque is regarded as suspicious, a biopsy is required in order to confirm the diagnosis. A sample of the tissue is removed by the doctor so that a pathologist may examine it under a microscope. The method of biopsy varies depending on the location of the abnormal area. If the cancer is in the chest, a doctor may perform a thoracoscopy, wherein he makes a small cut through the chest wall and inserts a thin, lighted tube called a thoracoscope between the ribs. This method allows doctors to have a look inside the chest and obtain tissue samples.

In the event that the cancer is in the abdomen a doctor will resort to a laparoscopy and in order to obtain tissues for the required examination the doctor makes a small opening in the abdomen and inserts a special instrument known as a laparoscope into the abdominal cavity. In case these procedures do not yield enough tissue, more extensive diagnostic surgery may be necessary.