Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Because mesothelioma symptoms are similar to several other conditions, mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose. A doctor will begin by studying the patient's medical history, including any asbestos exposure. The physician may then conduct a physical exam, which may include x-rays, MRIs, CT scans and lung function tests.

To confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis, a biopsy will be performed. A medical oncologist or surgeon will extract a tissue sample, which will be examined under a microscope by a pathologist. Depending on the area of the suspected mesothelioma, the biopsy may be performed several ways. If the cancer is forming in the chest, a physician may conduct a thoracoscopy. During this procedure, a small incision will be made through the chest wall in which a thin tube will be inserted between the ribs. This allows the physician to examine the inside of the chest and extract tissue samples. A peritoneoscopy may be performed if the mesothelioma is found in the abdomen. During this process, the physician will make a small cut in the abdomen and put a peritoneoscope into the abdominal cavity.

If a patient is found to have mesothelioma, the doctor will need to know the stage of the cancer. To determine the stage, more tests will be performed. Knowing the stage and spread of the disease can help in planning treatment.

The following is a brief overview of methods for diagnosing Mesothelioma:

X-rays: Abdomen or chest x-rays can show masses, fluid build-up, or signs of non-cancerous pleural disease.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: CT scans allow doctors to view detailed images of the body. In addition to guiding fine needle aspiration tests, these scans can find chest wall invasions or pleural disease. However, CT scans cannot distinguish between malignant or benign mesothelioma.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI scans use a computer-linked magnet to photograph details of the inside of the body. In addition, MRIs can establish the severity of a tumor.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET): PET imaging tests can efficiently diagnose mesothelioma tumors and determine the stage of the cancer.

Centesis: During this technique, peritoneal, pericardial or pleural fluid is drained and examined. In addition to providing a diagnosis, this procedure can relieve pain, fullness and pressure in the abdomen or chest.

Biopsy: In most cases, a needle biopsy is performed to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma. During a biopsy, a tissue sample will be extracted and examined under a microscope to test for cancerous cells. Depending on the location of the suspected mesothelioma, a biopsy can be performed several ways including:

Transbronchial biopsy: A flexible, lighted scope is put down the trachea into the bronchi area of the lungs.

Thoracoscopy: To obtain a tissue sample, a doctor will make small cut through the chest wall and a thoracoscope will be inserted.

Thoracotomy: During surgery, the chest is opened and examined, usually between two of the lower ribs on one side.

Peritoneoscopy: A doctor will insert a peritoneoscope in the abdominal cavity to extract a tissue sample for examination.