Malignant Mesothelioma
How is the disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis of mesothelioma begins with a medical history and physical exam. The healthcare provider may order a chest X-ray and a chest CT scan or chest MRI.
The diagnosis is confirmed with a biopsy. A tissue sample can be obtained through a needle, called a needle biopsy. Also, an incision can be made in the chest, which is called a thoractomy, and the tumor can be removed. The area in question can also be viewed with a scope, known as a thoracoscope or peritoneoscope.
Staging of mesothelioma that affects the pleura can be important in deciding on treatment.
Stage I means that the cancer affects the outer edges of pleura on only one side of the body.
Stage II means that the cancer has invaded the pleura and may have spread to the esophagus or heart.
Stage III means the cancer has spread to the membrane lining the abdominal cavity, called the peritoneum.
Stage IV means the cancer has spread throughout the body via the bloodstream.
Tumors that affect the peritoneum often occur in more than one place. These tumors are not staged in this way. The cancer is usually confined to the abdomen. An abdominal CT scan or abdominal MRI may be done. There is no specific laboratory test for mesothelioma.
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