Arrigate

Cancer of the mesotheliumis known to have a few primary symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas primary symptom is a lack of breath due to pleural effusion ” the buildup of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. The next most common symptomis chest pain due to the tumor invading the chest wall. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats

The most common sign of patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which originates 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 many of these symptoms may be caused by other conditions. Nevertheless, you should see a doctor if you have been exposed to asbestos and have experienced any of these symptoms.

Malignant mesothelioma is problematic to diagnose, because less serious conditions also cause similar symptoms. Typical symptoms:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
• Fever
• Nausea
• 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. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist removes a piece of tissue from the region that cancer is suspected and performs an examination that will result in a very accurate diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.

Another option is a CT (Computed Tomography) scan. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner is moved around the body to snap cross-sectional pictures. 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 irregularities are detected, a biopsy may also be ordered to determine if a tumor exists, and if thats the case, if its malignant or benign. Pleural mesothelioma can also be diagnosed by looking for cancer cells in a sample of fluid from the pleura.

These methods can also diagnose and screen patients for mesothelioma. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical symptoms, to make sure they are not in danger or to catch the cancer as early as possible. Patients who have in their past inhaled asbestos, should be screened for mesothelioma.