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1. Taking a Closer Look at Mesothelioma
The National Cancer Institute defines mesothelioma as:
A rare type of cancer in which malignant cells are found in the lining of the chest or abdomen.
Exposure to airborne asbestos particles increases ones risk of developing malignant
mesothelioma.
Common risks associated with the onset of mesothelioma include living with an individual who
works near or with asbestos.
Each year, within the United States of America, there are approximately 2,000 cases of
mesothelioma diagnosed. And while there is no one-size-fits-all cure, there are several treatment
options available to those with mesothelioma, depending upon what stage the cancer is in. These
treatments may include: chemotherapy, radiation or surgery. Early diagnosis and detection is
extremely important in mesothelioma cancer cases as this disease often lay dormant within an
individual for a number of years (20-30 years sometimes). Making matters more difficult is the fact
that symptoms and signs of malignant mesothelioma often manifest themselves as general
symptoms that could be attributed to any number of ailments, further inhibiting a timely diagnosis.
Signs of Malignant mesothelioma
As stated previously, malignant mesothelioma is often difficult to detect, making this particular type
of cancer extremely dangerous. Some of the symptoms of malignant mesothelioma may include
the following:

2. Shortness of breath
Trouble breathing
Pain under the rib cage
Pain or swelling in the abdomen
Lumps in the abdomen
Weight loss for no known reason
Diagnosing Mesothelioma in Patients
The above symptoms of mesothelioma are extremely similar to those that would indicate the
possibility of lung cancer in a patient. Therefore, in order to properly diagnose mesothelioma, any
number of the following tests and procedures may be used, including:
1. Chest X-Ray: Chest x-rays are often used as a way of taking a look at the organs and bones
inside of the chest.
2. Biopsy: A biopsy refers to the removal of cells or tissue in order that they may be checked for
signs of cancer. There are various procedures use to collect cells or tissue samples including:
Fine-needle (FNA) aspiration biopsy of the lung
Thorascoscopy
Peritoneoscopy
Laparotomy
Thoracotomy
3. Complete Blood Count (CBC): When blood is drawn, it is checked for the following:
NUMBER of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets
AMOUNT of hemoglobin in red blood cells
PORTION of blood sample that is comprised of red blood cells
4. Sedimentation Rate: This is a procedure in which blood is drawn from the patient and checked
to see at what rate red blood cells settle to the bottom of the test tube.
5. Bronchoscopy: During this type of procedure, a thin, tube-like instrument with a lens and light at
the end, called a bronchoscope, is inserted through the patients nose or mouth into the trachea
and lungs. This allows the doctor to take a closer look inside of the trachea and airways within the
lungs in order to look for any abnormalities. In some cases, the bronchoscope will have a tool at
the end to remove tissue samples.
6. Cytologic Exam: During this type of examination, fluid is taken from around the lungs and/or
from the abdomen. The pathologist will then use a microscope to examine the patients cells for
any abnormalities.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. The
content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you

3. may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in
seeking it because of something you have read in this article