Mesothelioma is a rare asbestos-related cancer unknown by many, as less than 3,000 people are diagnosed with the disease annually in the United States.
mesothelioma typically develops in those exposed to the toxic mineral asbestos, and commonly occurs due to occupational exposure in professions where asbestos use was prevalent. Those who served in the military prior to the 1980s were also frequently exposed to large amounts of asbestos, and approximately 30 percent of those diagnosed with mesothelioma are veterans.
mesothelioma patients are often unaware of the cancer’s presence in their body until several decades have passed since the time initial exposure to asbestos occurred. A patient may take up to 50 years to demonstrate symptoms of mesothelioma, which can make the diagnostic process difficult.
The mesothelioma diagnostic process typically begins when a patient visits a doctor after experiencing symptoms such as chest pain or difficulty breathing. Unfortunately these symptoms may be confused with other less serious illnesses, so it is important for a patient to inform a doctor of any knowledge of past asbestos exposure to aid in a fast mesothelioma diagnosis.
A patient will then typically undergo a physical examination and a complete evaluation of their medical history. In most cases a doctor will then recommend additional testing, typically in the form of an imaging test. Tests such as a chest X-ray, CT Scan, PET Scan or MRI scan are utilized to determine the location of the cancer and determine wither or not it has spread to other locations within the body.
A biopsy will then be requested to collect a sample of cells to test for the presence of cancer. If mesothelioma is found, a doctor will then refer the patient to a cancer doctor, known as an oncologist, who will help the patient understand available treatment options and the best plan to combat the cancer.
Additional information about mesothelioma, the diagnostic process and treatment options may be found through the mesothelioma Center.