How A Diagnosis of Mesothelioma Is Made

by Thomas Ajava

Being diagnosed with any form of cancer is rough. Mesothelioma is very rough because the prospects of a successful recovery are low. That being said, many are confused about how this form of cancer is actually diagnosed.

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the mesothelium. The mesothelium is a two layer lining that surrounds all the internal organs in the chest and abdomen area. It acts as a lubricating wall that lets organs move about with a minimum of problems. How does cancer get into the mesothelium? The most common cause by far is exposure to asbestos. Yes, it is "that" cancer you've read about in all the big class action cases and on 60 Minutes and other television shows.

One of the big hurdles with Mesothelioma is treating it. It is a devilish form of cancer because of two reasons. The first is the gestation time. Up to 50 years can pass before it starts causing symptoms. By that time, it is often too late to do anything. The second reason it is hard to diagnose is the symptoms are the same as many other health problems that are less dire. In many cases, the disease is actually initially misdiagnosed as something else. Only when repeated treatment options don't work is an accurate diagnosis made.

So, how does one diagnose Mesothelioma? It usually starts with a chest x-ray. Lung function tests are then undertaken. No blood is drawn as this form of cancer does not have any biomarkers, the items looked for in cancer blood tests. Depending on results, your doctor may then also order an MRI to isolate some area of the body. What does all of this tell your doctor? That you MIGHT have something going on. Mesothelioma is that hard to find.

If Mesothelioma is expected, a biopsy will be ordered. There are different types of biopsies for the different areas you might be having problems. The mesothelium runs through the chest and abdomen, so it could be anywhere. Regardless, the biopsy will generally involve an oncologist making a small insertion into the body cavity and then running a scope into it. The area in question will be viewed and small samples will be taken. The samples will be sent to pathology where lab tests will determine if cancerous cells are present or not. Then, and only then, will you really know if you have Mesothelioma.

About the Author
Thomas Ajava is with PortArthurMesotheliomaAttorneys.com - find top quality Port Arthur Mesothelioma attorneys for your case.