Malignant mesothelioma has a few major symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas main symptom is a lack of breath caused by pleural effusion ” the increase of fluid in the membrane, or pleura, around the lung. The next most common symptomis chest pain due to the tumor invading the chest wall. Additional symptoms include night sweats, weight loss and exhaustion.

The primary symptomof patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which begins in the abdomen, is the swelling of the abdomen because of fluid accumulation (ascites), pain in the abdomen, and blockage of the bowel.

It is key to understand that other afflictions or diseases could be causing these symptoms. However, if you have been exposed to asbestos and have these symptoms, you should visit a doctor.

Malignant mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose, because less serious conditions also cause similar symptoms. Typical symptoms:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
  • Burning up
  • Upset stomach
  • Breathy voice
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Spitting up blood

Do not attempt self-diagnosis. People suffering from the above symptoms should remain calm and consult a doctor. Performing a biopsy is the standard way to confirm the condition. A pathologist removes a piece of tissue from the suspected area and examines it to return a highly accurate diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.

Another option is a CT (Computed Tomography) scan. 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 considered an effective way of diagnosing the disease. Opinion is divided as to whether the scan is more or less cost-effective than a biopsy. If irregularities are detected, a biopsy may also be needed to know if the abnormality is a tumor, and if so, if the tumor is benign or malignant. Pleural mesothelioma can also be diagnosed by looking for cancer cells in a sample of fluid from the pleura.

Mesothelioma can also be screened and then diagnosed by any of these methods. Patients who may think they are at risk but do not display any symptoms are typically screened, to make sure they are not in danger or to catch the cancer as early as possible. People who need to be screened include those with a history of asbestos exposure..