Mesothilioma Cancer Diagnosis and Staging
The diagnosis of mesothilioma cancer is often complicated because many of the signs and symptoms are similar to other conditions. In order to rule out or diagnose malignant mesothelioma, a doctor will typically perform a comprehensive examination of the patient’s medical history. History of exposure to asbestos will increase a doctor’s suspicion of mesothelioma cancer, as asbestos is the primary cause of this cancer.
Mesothilioma Cancer Diagnosis Process
In addition to taking one’s medical history, a doctor will also perform a complete physical exam, usually including x-ray and lung function testing. If an x-ray reveals thickening of the lining of the lungs, heart or abdomen, a CT (or CAT) scan and/or MRI is usually performed. Cells in the affected region may also be aspirated using a syringe and analyzed to detect abnormalities.
If this cytology or other more specific tests reveal suspicious cells, a biopsy will be needed in order to confirm a mesothelioma cancer diagnosis. The precise method of biopsy will depend on what mesothelial lining is affected:
- If the suspected mesothelioma cancer is in the lungs or heart lining, a doctor will perform a thoracoscopy, whereby a doctor makes a small incision through the chest wall and extracts a small tissue sample of the affected tissue.
- If cancer is suspected in the abdominal lining, a doctor may perform a laparoscopy, whereby the doctor makes a small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a special instrument to extract a small amount of tissue.
- In more rare cases, more extensive surgery may be needed.
Once a mesothelioma cancer diagnosis has been made, prompt treatment is often necessary to optimize a patient’s prognosis.
After Diagnosis: Staging Mesothilioma Cancer
Treatment will often depend on the type of mesothelioma and the cancer stage. There are three common ways to stage mesothelioma cancer:
- The Butchart System: this is the oldest and most commonly used staging system. It classifies mesothelioma based on the extent of primary tumor mass and the spread of malignancy.
- The TNM system: this newer system considers specific tumor variables of (T)umor characteristics, lymph (N)ode involvement, and (M)etastasis, or the spread of cancer to other tissues and organs.
- Brigham System: this relatively new system is based on the ability to remove the malignant tissues (resectability) and the involvement of the lymph nodes.
Please contact asbestos attorneys in your area to learn more about mesothelioma cancer and your legal rights.
