7 Ways to Check if You Have Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the linings of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. Exposure to asbestos is a common cause of mesothelioma. The early signs of this disorder depend on the specific organ involved. Here are the 7 ways to check if you have mesothelioma.

7. Involvement of chest

When mesothelioma affects the respiratory system, it can cause damage to the tissues surrounding the lungs resulting in chest pain, cough, and shortness of breath. You can also check the skin of your chest for the presence of unusual lumps for early diagnosis of mesothelioma. [1]

6. Pleural effusion

Chronic cough with pain along the sides of the chest can be a sign of pleural effusion caused due to mesothelioma. It occurs due to the accumulation of fluid in the spaces between the membranes lining the walls of the lungs. [2]

5. Abdominal symptoms

When mesothelioma affects the abdominal organs, you may develop symptoms like recurrent pain in the stomach, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, loose motions, and unexplained weight loss. [3]

4. Blood tests

The best way to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma is to check the levels of osteopontin, fibulin-3, and soluble mesothelin-related peptides in the blood. The higher levels of these substances could point to the diagnosis of mesothelioma. [4]

3. Biopsy

Your doctor may advise you to undergo needle biopsy to detect the presence of cancerous cells. The test involves inserting a long and hollow needle through your skin to remove a small piece of the affected tissues. The tissue can be examined under a microscope to detect the cancer cells having the characteristics of mesothelioma. [5]

2. Thoracoscopy or laparoscopy

These procedures involve the insertion of a lighted scope through your skin to visualize the affected tissue. This test can help to check if you have mesothelioma of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. [6]

1. Imaging tests

One of the best ways to check if you have mesothelioma is to undergo imaging tests like chest X-ray, computed tomography, positron emission tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. [7]

 Conclusion

These symptoms and tests can help you check if you have mesothelioma and allow you to seek early medical intervention to prevent the growth and spread of cancer.