A Mesothelioma diagnosis from a doctor is based off specific symptoms a patient may be having. Diagnosing Mesothelioma at an early stage is essential to have the best outcome possible with treatment.
Since Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, it is vital for patients to seek a doctor who specializes in Mesothelioma cancer.
Common Misdiagnoses of Mesothelioma is bronchitis, pneumonia, and COPD in its early stages (1-2). If you have a history of asbestos exposure, you should see a doctor once a year to get tested.
Mesothelioma Diagnostic Methods
Blood Tests (Tumor Markers)
Chest X-Ray
CT Scan (Computed Tomography)
Echocardiogram
Endoscopic Biopsies
Imaging Tests
Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Laparoscopy
Mediastinoscopy
Medical History and Physical Exam
MRI Scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Needle Biopsies
Open Surgical Biopsy
PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography)
Pleuroscopy
Pulmonary Function Tests
Removing Fluid for testing
Test of Tissue Samples
Tests of Fluid Samples
Thoracoscopy
Types of Mesothelioma
Pleural Mesothelioma [Lungs]
Peritoneal Mesothelioma [Abdomen
Pericardial Mesothelioma [Heart]
Abdominal Mesothelioma
Biphasic Mesothelioma
Epithelial malignant Mesothelioma
Chrysotile Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Malignant Mesothelioma Cystic Mesothelioma
Testicular Mesothelioma
There are about 3500 Mesothelioma cancer cases diagnosed in the U. S. each year.