Inflikt

Malignant mesotheliomahas a few major symptoms. The primary symptom of pleural mesothelioma is shortness of breath caused by 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 primary symptom of patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, which begins in the abdomen, is fluid buildup (known as ascites) in the abdomen causing abdominal swelling, pain in the abdomen, and blockage of the bowel.

Its vital to know that other afflictions or diseases could be causing these symptoms. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.

Malignant mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose, because the symptoms are also experienced in less serious health issues. Symptoms typical for mesothelioma:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest or lower back pains due to accumulated fluid in the pleura
• Running a temperature
• Vomiting
• Breathy voice
• Difficulty swallowing
• Spitting up blood

One should not self-diagnose themselves. One suffering from any of the above symptoms should see a doctor and remain calm. The standard way to confirm the condition is with a biopsy. A pathologist removes a piece of tissue from the suspected region and examines it to return a highly accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are typically pain-free.

Another option is a CT (Computed Tomography) scan. A CT scan is basically an X-ray procedure where cross-sectional images are taken as a scanner rotates around the body. Once in a while, a dye is ingested by the patient to help define the images. CT scans have an advantage over biopsies by being easier and non-invasive, and they are known to be an effective diagnostic tool. Opinions vary whether a CT scan or biopsy is cheaper. If there are irregularities, a biopsy may be needed on top of the CT scan to confirm whether or not the irregularity is a tumor, and if so, if the tumor is benign or malignant. Diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma is also possible by looking for cancer cells in a sample of fluid from the pleura.

These methods can also diagnose and screen patients for mesothelioma. 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..