Cancer of the mesotheliumwill show a few primary symptoms. The primary symptom of pleural mesothelioma is shortness of breath caused by pleural effusion ” fluid being built up in the pleura, or membrane, encompassing the lung. The second most common symptomis chest pain because the chest wall is being attacked by the tumor. Additional symptoms include night sweats, weight loss and exhaustion.
The most common sign of patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, which is centralized in the abdomen, is abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.
Its vital to know that many of these symptoms may be caused by other conditions. However, if you have been exposed to asbestos and have these symptoms, you should visit a doctor.
Peritoneal mesothelioma is hard to identify, because less serious conditions also cause similar symptoms. Symptoms typical for mesothelioma:
- Having trouble breathing
- Lower back or chest pains from a buildup of fluid in the pleura
- Burning up
- Upset stomach
- Hoarseness
- Having trouble swallowing
- Coughing up blood
Do not attempt self-diagnosis. One suffering from any of the above symptoms should see a doctor and remain calm. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist removes a piece of tissue from the suspected area and examines the biopsy which results in a very precise diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.
Another option is a CT (Computed Tomography) scan. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner is moved around the body to snap cross-sectional pictures. 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 known to be an effective diagnostic tool. Opinions vary whether a CT scan or biopsy is cheaper. 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 looking for cancer cells in a sample of fluid from the pleura.
These methods can also diagnose and screen patients 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..
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