Mesothelioma is a relatively rare type of cancer, but its symptoms resemble those of various other conditions. Because of this, it can be difficult to diagnose or may be misdiagnosed as lung cancer, viral pneumonia, or other complaints. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is strongly advised to tell their doctor about the exposure so that symptoms can be investigated with this in mind.
When there is any likelihood of mesothelioma, your doctor will want to perform a physical examination and request blood tests, chest X-rays, and probably a CAT scan or an MRI test. If a large amount of pleural fluid shows up, this can be drained and analysed. A biopsy or tissue examination can then be carried out to show whether mesothelioma is present, or whether the fluid indicates another type of pleural disease which is asbestos-related but benign.
If you are diagnosed with mesothelioma which is described as “localised,” this means that cancer has been found only on the surface of the membrane where it originated. In this case, surgery will probably be carried out to remove the tumour and surrounding tissue. If it is described as “advanced,” this means it has moved beyond the membrane surface and has spread to other parts of the body such as the abdomen, chest, or lungs. Most cases of mesothelioma tend to be advanced, because the symptoms are so slow to manifest. In such cases, treatment is palliative, with a focus on easing pain and discomfort as much as possible.
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