Diagnosis of mesothelioma should be done if you have symptoms of mesothelioma which can be shortness of breath, chronic chest pain and coughing. These symptoms might differ according to the type of mesothelioma cancer. If you are exposed to asbestos it is a wise idea to consult your doctor and get diagnosed if necessary. Preliminary detection of mesothelioma can be done through imaging methods.
Some of the imaging methods used for diagnosis are:
Chest X-ray: The most common technique used to detect tumor, but a more effective test has to be performed to confirm mesothelioma cancer.
CT(Computed Tomography) scan: CT is used to generate a 3 dimensional image of the inside of an object from a large series of 2 dimensional X-ray images which will help in identifying any abnormal fluid buildup in your body.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan: MRI uses magnetic and radio waves to produce detailed image which will help in detection of tumor in your body.
PET (Positron Emission Tomography): This is the most efficient way of determining mesothelioma cancer. It helps in determining the staging of mesothelioma.
If mesothelioma is suspected during imaging methods, it should be confirmed through proper diagnosis methods like:
Biopsy
If tissue that is not normal is found in your body, the doctor will need to cut out a small piece and have it reviewed under a microscope to see if there are any cancer cells. This is called a biopsy. Biopsies are usually done during the thoracoscopy or peritoneoscopy.
Thoracoscopy
If the cancer is located in the pleura, a small incision will be made through the chest wall and a thoracoscope will be inserted to obtain a tissue sample. It is usually done in the hospital. Before the test, the patient will be given a local anesthetic
Peritoneoscopy
If the cancer is in the abdominal cavity, a doctor will use a peritoneoscope to obtain sample tissue for further examination. The peritoneoscope is put into an opening made in the abdomen. This test is also usually done in the hospital. Before the test is done, a local anesthetic will be given.