A Primer to the Symptoms and Diagnosis of Cancer of the Mesothelium
Posted June 16, 2009 6:23 am in Better Health, Science Management by admin Comments OffMesothelioma has a few major symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas primary symptom is a lack 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. Symptoms may also include fatigue, loss of weight and night sweats
The primary symptomof patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which originates in the abdomen, is the swelling of the abdomen because of fluid accumulation (ascites), 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 hard to identify, because the symptoms are also experienced in less serious health issues. Symptoms typical for mesothelioma:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
- Burning up
- Upset stomach
- Breathy voice
- Having trouble swallowing
- Coughing blood
One should not self-diagnose themselves. One suffering from any of the above symptoms should see a doctor and remain calm. Performing a biopsy is the standard way to confirm the condition. A pathologist removes a piece of tissue from the region that cancer is suspected and examines it to return a highly 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. Once in a while, a dye is ingested by the patient to help define the images. CT scans have the advantage of being non-invasive and easier, and they are recognized as being effective in diagnosis. Opinions vary whether a CT scan or biopsy is cheaper. If there are abnormalities, a biopsy may also be ordered to determine if a tumor exists, and if so, whether it is malignant or benign. Pleural mesothelioma can also be diagnosed 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 make sure they are not in danger or to catch the cancer as early as possible. People who need to be screened include those with a history of asbestos exposure..