Identifying Cases of Cancer of the Mesothelium Demands Medical Screening Methods
Saturday, June 27th, 2009Cancer of the mesotheliumis known to have a few primary symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas primary symptom is having trouble breathing due to pleural effusion ” the buildup of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. Another common symptomis chest pain due to the tumor invading the chest wall. Additional symptoms include night sweats, weight loss and exhaustion.
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, abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.
It is important to note that these symptoms could be caused by a myriad of diseases or conditions. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.
Mesothelioma is hard to identify, because many symptoms are also associated with less serious conditions. Symptoms typical for mesothelioma:
- Having trouble breathing
- Chest or lower back pains due to accumulated fluid in the pleura
- Burning up
- Upset stomach
- Breathy voice
- Having trouble swallowing
- Coughing blood
Do not attempt self-diagnosis. People suffering from the above symptoms should remain calm and consult a doctor. Performing a biopsy is the standard way to confirm the condition. A pathologist takes a small tissue sample from the suspected area and examines the biopsy which results in a very precise diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.
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. 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 recognized as being effective in diagnosis. Beliefs vary whether a biopsy or scan is more cost-effective. If there are irregularities, a biopsy may also be needed to know if the abnormality is a tumor, and if so, if the tumor is benign or malignant. Pleural mesothelioma can also be diagnosed 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. Screening is when patients who may suspect they are at risk are tested for the condition without displaying any symptoms, to make sure they are not in danger or to catch the cancer as early as possible. People who need to be screened include those with a history of asbestos exposure..
