Malignant mesotheliomahas a few major symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas main symptom is shortness of breath caused by pleural effusion ” the increase of fluid in the membrane, or pleura, around the lung. The second most common symptomis chest pain because the chest wall is being attacked by the tumor. Additional symptoms include night sweats, weight loss and exhaustion.

The primary symptom of patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which originates in the abdomen, is the swelling of the abdomen because of fluid accumulation (ascites), bowel obstruction, and stomach pain.

It is important to note that these symptoms could be caused by a myriad of diseases or conditions. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.

Pleural mesothelioma is hard to identify, because many symptoms are also associated with less serious conditions. Typical symptoms:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
  • Running a temperature
  • Vomiting
  • Hoarseness
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Spitting up blood

One should not self-diagnose themselves. One suffering from any of the above symptoms should see a doctor and remain calm. The standard way to confirm the condition is with a biopsy. A pathologist takes a small tissue sample from the region that cancer is suspected and examines the biopsy which results in a very precise diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.

CT scans (Computed Tomography) are an option to avoid a biopsy. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner takes many cross-sectional images as it rotates around the body. Once in a while, a dye is ingested by the patient to help define the images. CT scans have an advantage over biopsies by being easier and non-invasive, and they are known to be an effective diagnostic tool. Beliefs vary whether a biopsy or scan is more cost-effective. If irregularities are detected, a biopsy may also be ordered to determine if a tumor exists, and if thats the case, if its malignant or benign. Pleural mesothelioma can also be diagnosed by testing a sample of fluid from the pleura for cancer cells.

Any of these methods may also be used to screen for mesothelioma. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical symptoms, to ensure they are not at risk to get the cancer or to catch the cancer early. People who need to be screened include those with a history of asbestos exposure..