Mesothelioma is usually diagnosed after a person goes to their doctor about symptoms they are having. Diagnosing Mesothelioma at an early stage is vital to have the best outcome possible with treatment.
Since Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, it is essential for patients to be examined by a doctor who specializes in Mesothelioma cancer.
Common misdiagnoses for Mesothelioma are 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