Malignant mesothelioma will show a few primary symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas primary symptom is shortness of breath due to pleural effusion ” the accumulation 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. Additional symptoms include night sweats, weight loss and exhaustion.
The primary symptomof patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, which begins in the abdomen, is abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.
It is key to understand that these symptoms could be caused by a myriad of diseases or conditions. However, if you have been exposed to asbestos and have these symptoms, you should visit a doctor.
Pleural mesothelioma cancer is difficult to diagnose, because many symptoms are also associated with less serious conditions. Symptoms typical for mesothelioma:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
- Burning up
- Upset stomach
- Raspy 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 removes a piece of tissue from the suspicious area and performs an examination that will result in a very accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are generally not painful.
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. A patient might have to ingest a dye to help define the pictures. 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 be needed on top of the CT scan to confirm whether or not the irregularity is a tumor, and if so, whether it is malignant or benign. Diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma is also possible by testing a sample of fluid from the pleura for cancer cells.
Any of these methods may also be used to screen for mesothelioma. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical symptoms, to catch the cancer early or to make sure the patient is not otherwise in danger. Patients should be screened for mesothelioma if they have a history of asbestos exposure.