Mesothelioma Cancer Diagnosis

Mesothelioma Cancer Diagnosis

Diagnosing mesothelioma is often difficult,because the symptoms are similar to those of a number of other conditions.Diagnosis begins with a review of the patient's medical history.A history of exposure to asbestos may increase clinical suspicion for mesothelioma.A physical examination is performed,followed by chest X-ray and often lung function tests.The X-ray may reveal pleural thickening commonly seen after asbestos exposure and increases suspicion of mesothelioma.A CT scan or an MRI is usually performed.If a large amount of fluid is present,abnormal cells may be detected by cytology if this fluid is aspirated with a syringe.For pleural fluid this is done by a pleural tap or chest drain,in ascites with an paracentesis or ascitic drain and in a pericardial effusion with pericardiocentesis. 

 

If cytology is positive or a plaque is regarded as suspicious, a biopsy is needed to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma. A doctor removes a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope by a pathologist.A biopsy may be done in different ways, depending on where the abnormal area is located.If the cancer is in the chest, the doctor may perform a thoracoscopy.In this procedure, the doctor makes a small cut through the chest wall and puts a thin, lighted tube called a thoracoscope into the chest between two ribs.Thoracoscopy allows the doctor to look inside the chest and obtain tissue samples.

If the cancer is in the abdomen, the doctor may perform a laparoscopy.To obtain tissue for examination,the doctor makes a small opening in the abdomen and inserts a special instrument into the abdominal cavity.If these procedures do not yield enough tissue, more extensive diagnostic surgery may be necessary.