Diagnosis and Treatment

Mesothelioma sufferers often develop certain hallmark symptoms that lead them to seek medical attention. Mesothelioma victims often notice pain or a “heavy” or full feeling in the affected area. If mesothelioma forms in the pleura, shortness of breath and chest pain can be common. If mesothelioma forms in the lining of the abdomen, swelling and stomach pain often develop.

A chest x-ray or CT scan often reveals a mass accompanied by fluid accumulation, and then a biopsy is often necessary to properly diagnose mesothelioma. Be aware that mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose and is often confused with other cancers, like lung cancer and sarcoma.

To diagnose pleural mesothelioma, a doctor may perform a thoracoscopy. This procedure requires a doctor to look inside the chest cavity with an instrument called a thoracoscope. The doctor inserts this instrument through a small incision between two ribs. The procedure is done under local anesthetic or painkiller and is performed in a hospital.

To diagnose peritoneal mesothelioma, a doctor may perform a peritoneoscopy. Here, a doctor looks inside the abdomen with an instrument called a peritoneoscope. The doctor inserts this instrument through an incision made in the abdomen. This procedure is usually done under local anesthetic and is performed in a hospital.

Like many cancers, the prognosis for mesothelioma depends on several factors, including early detection and aggressiveness of treatment. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy.

Unfortunately, mesothelioma remains notoriously difficult to treat. Many clinical trials across the country are testing new and innovative treatments for mesothelioma.

Please refer to the National Cancer Institute website for comprehensive information on mesothelioma treatments, clinical trials and cancer centers.