Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells that line the internal organs of the body, including the lungs, heart, and abdomen. This cancer is typically caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials and other industrial applications for many decades.
Diagnosing mesothelioma is a complex process that involves a variety of tests and exams. Here is a detailed description of the steps involved in diagnosing this type of cancer:
- Medical history and physical examination: The first step in diagnosing mesothelioma is a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, including any history of exposure to asbestos. This is followed by a physical examination, during which the doctor will listen to the patient’s lungs and feel for any unusual lumps or swelling in the chest or abdomen.
- Chest X-rays: A chest X-ray is one of the most common diagnostic tests used to detect mesothelioma. This test uses a low dose of radiation to produce an image of the inside of the chest, which can reveal the presence of any unusual growths or masses.
- Computed Tomography (CT) scans: A CT scan is a type of imaging test that uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed images of the internal organs. This test can be used to detect mesothelioma in its early stages, as well as to determine the extent and location of cancer.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans: An MRI scan is a type of imaging test that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the internal organs. This test can be used to detect mesothelioma in its early stages, as well as to determine the extent and location of cancer.
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans: A PET scan is a type of imaging test that uses a small amount of radioactive material to produce detailed images of the internal organs. This test can be used to detect mesothelioma in its early stages, as well as to determine the extent and location of cancer.
- Biopsy: A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the affected area and examined under a microscope. This test is used to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the type of cells involved.
There are several types of biopsy that can be performed to diagnose mesothelioma, including:
- Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy: This is a minimally invasive procedure in which a fine needle is inserted into the affected area to remove a small sample of tissue for analysis.
- Thoracoscopy: This is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small tube with a camera is inserted into the chest through a small incision to remove a sample of tissue for analysis.
- Laparoscopy: This is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small tube with a camera is inserted into the abdomen through a small incision to remove a sample of tissue for analysis.
- Blood tests: Blood tests can be used to detect the presence of mesothelioma by measuring the levels of certain biomarkers that are associated with this type of cancer. For example, elevated levels of mesothelin, a protein that is produced by mesothelioma cells, can be an indicator of the presence of this cancer.
- Staging: Once a diagnosis of mesothelioma has been confirmed, the next step is to determine the stage of cancer.
