Mesothelioma Diagnosis

If you are wondering, "Do I have mesothelioma?" you should immediately contact your doctor, as early detection is a powerful asset during treatment. Malignant mesothelioma may not become apparent until 20 to 30 years after the first exposure to asbestos, but can be very aggressive once it takes hold. Because the symptoms of mesothelioma are not unique to the disease, a mesothelioma diagnosis can be difficult to determine.

Mesothelioma Diagnosis

To determine whether a person has mesothelioma, doctors may use one or more of these diagnostic methods:

Chest X ray
CAT scan - CT or Computerized Tomography
MRI - Magnetic Resonance Imaging
PET scan - Positron Emission Tomography
PFT - Pulmonary Function Test
Transbronchial biopsy - A flexible, lighted scope is passed down the trachea to the bronchi area of the lungs.
Thoracotomy - During surgery, the chest is opened and examined, usually between two of the lower ribs on one side.
Thoracoscopy - A thoracoscope with a video camera is sent through an incision between the ribs.
Centesis - Pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial fluid is drained and evaluated. This technique is used both for diagnosis and to relieve pressure, pain, and fullness in the chest or abdominal areas.