How is Mesothelioma Diagnosed? - The first step in diagnosing any type of mesothelioma occurs when a patient experiences symptoms. The symptoms characteristic of this caner are not unique to it, so a visit to the doctor is necessary to rule out other causes. A general practitioner or internist can examine the patient and test for certain conditions, while also taking a medical history. In addition to symptoms, known exposure to asbestos is an indicator that mesothelioma may be possible

A general doctor will refer any patient suspected of having mesothelioma to an oncologist, or cancer specialist, for a definite diagnosis. There are a number of different methodologies used in diagnosing asbestos-related cancers and the one that is used in a specific case often depends upon how the disease has presented itself, the location of the tumor, and how advanced it is at the time of diagnosis. In most cases, a confirmed diagnosis comes from a combination of biopsies, laboratory studies and imaging studies such as MRI or X-Rays.

Often the first test is to drain fluid from the pleural or peritoneal cavities and to examine it for the presence of cancer cells. Imaging scans are next to look for any signs of potential tumors. These imaging tools may include X-rays, MRIs, PET scans, and CT scans. If the images show what could look like tumors, the next step is to biopsy them to be sure it is mesothelioma and to stage the disease.

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