The RazorKnow Organisation

Mesotheliomawill show a few primary symptoms. The main symptom of pleural mesothelioma is shortness of breath due to pleural effusion ” the buildup of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. The second most common symptomis chest pain due to the tumor invading the chest wall. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats

The main indicator of patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which begins in the abdomen, is abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), pain in the abdomen, and blockage of the bowel.

It is key to understand that other afflictions or diseases could be causing these symptoms. However, if you have been exposed to asbestos and have these symptoms, you should visit a doctor.

Pleural mesothelioma is problematic to diagnose, because less serious conditions also cause similar symptoms. These symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
• Fever
• Upset stomach
• Breathy voice
• Having trouble swallowing
• Coughing blood

One should not self-diagnose themselves. Sufferers of the above symptoms should not panic, and should consult their doctor. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist takes a small tissue sample from the suspected region and examines it to return a highly accurate diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.

CT scans (Computed Tomography) are an option to avoid a biopsy. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner takes many cross-sectional images as it rotates around the body. 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 considered an effective way of diagnosing the disease. Beliefs vary whether a biopsy or scan is more cost-effective. 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. It is also possible to diagnose pleural mesothelioma 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 ensure they are not at risk to get the cancer or to catch the cancer early. Patients should be screened for mesothelioma if they have a history of asbestos exposure.