Catherine A. Murphy
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that occurs as a result of asbestos exposure. This cancer causes malignant cells in the mesothelium, the protective lining of the abdominal cavities that include the intestines, heart and lungs. The lung lining (Pleura) is the most common site of Mesothelioma.
For diagnostic purposes, your health care provider may do a CT scan or chest x-ray. The disease is often confirmed through microscopic examination and biopsy. There is not much research available for early detection of Mesothelioma as the symptoms can arise 20 or more years after the disease takes root in the body. Diagnosing Mesothelioma is difficult because often symptoms are similar to a number of other medical conditions.
The process of diagnosis starts with a review of your medical history. If you have a record of asbestos exposure, there is an increased chance of Mesothelioma. If there is a large amount of fluid in your body, cytology can play a prominent part in the detection of abnormal cells.
If the cytology is positive, your health care provider will conduct a biopsy for confirmation of the diagnosis. A biopsy can be implemented in a wide variety of ways, often on the basis of location. Laparoscopy is the best way to go if you have cancer in the abdomen.