Diagnosing Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a very rare cancer. It can be difficult to diagnose because many doctors do not have experience with the disease, and may have never seen a patient with mesothelioma. The symptoms of mesothelioma resemble symptoms of many other diseases. If a victim does not know they have been exposed to asbestos, and cannot inform their doctor, the disease can be mistaken for a variety of other illnesses.

It is important that patients always share their complete medical, family and work history with their healthcare professionals. Since many victims of mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos in the workplace, this information can be invaluable to your doctor when diagnosing your illness.

If you worked in any of the following occupations, you may have been exposed to asbestos. It is important that you tell your doctor.

Tests that your doctor may perform in an effort to diagnose mesothelioma include:

Diagnostic Tests: The physical exam should involve a number of imaging tests to search for suspicious cell formation. These tests may include:

• X-rays – of the chest or abdomen may reveal fluid build-up or masses

• Computed tomography (CT) scan – a series of detailed images of the body that can locate problems in the lungs and chest walls.

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – most often used to determine the extent of tumors prior to aggressive treatment. More accurate than CT scans in assessing enlargement of lymph nodes.

• Positron emission tomography (PET) – considered the most diagnostic, as well as the most superior in determining the staging of mesothelioma.

Pathology Tests: Once mesothelioma is suspected through imaging tests, it is confirmed by pathological examination. Tissue is removed, put under the microscope, and a pathologist makes a definitive diagnosis, and issues a pathology report. The following tests may be conducted:

• Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) - several small incisions or “ports” are made through the chest wall. The surgeon then inserts a small camera, via a scope, into one incision, and other surgical instruments used to retrieve tissue samples into the other incisions. By looking at a video screen showing the camera images, the surgeon is able to complete whatever procedures are necessary.

• Biopsy – a sample of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to test for cancer cells. Depending on where the abnormal area is located, a biopsy can be performed in different ways, including:

  • Thoracoscopy - for pleural mesothelioma the doctor may look inside the chest cavity with a special instrument called a thoracoscope. A cut will be made through the chest wall and the thoracoscope will be put into the chest between two ribs.

  • Peritoneoscopy - for peritoneal mesothelioma the doctor may also look inside the abdomen with a special tool called a peritoneoscope. The peritoneoscope is put into an opening made in the abdomen.

Pulmonary Function Tests: tests to evaluate the respiratory system.

If you or a loved one experience any symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.