Tests & Diagnosis
Just like with other illnesses or serious, terminal diseases, conducting medical tests and confirming the existing condition, progression and prognosis is the start of the very important process of identifying, addressing and effectively treating Mesothelioma.
The patient's full medical history will be taken into consideration to help make an accurate diagnosis. Any exposure to asbestos is placed under closer scrutiny. If you worked in mines or with some products containing asbestos like insulation, cement, HVAC etc, as well as some other professions like construction and engineering will be considered. All of these factors will contribute to a thorough diagnosis and hypothesis about the possible origin or root cause of the symptoms.
Any level of suspicion will be backed up with diagnostic testing and a full comprehensive, physical examination will follow. Chest X-rays and lung-capacity testing is logically the next step because thickening and the presence of fluid will be clearly visible. This will allow the Doctor to rule out just suspicion and accurately diagnose it as Mesothelioma.
Cytology might be performed if excess fluids are found with the use of a syringe, pleural tabs or chest drain, paracentesis or ascitic drain or pericardiocentesis. The method used will depend on the location and the amount of fluid present and will contribute to the choice of test procedure. Even with a negative diagnosis, any information obtained from these tests can rule out other illnesses like TB or heart conditions.
The next choice is biopsies to help confirm the diagnosis by removing a tissue sample through Thoracoscopy for example. A Laparoscopy will be performed if the lower area of the abdomen is in question. There are some instances were going even deeper would require exploratory diagnostic surgery and this will help determine the nature and extend of the disease.
