Mesothelioma Symptoms and Signs

The symptoms and signs of mesothelioma are often confused with other diseases, as they are very general and non-specific. Because of this, along with its aggressive nature, mesothelioma often leads to a very grim prognosis. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your doctor.
Pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma are the two most common forms of this cancer. Peritoneal mesothelioma indicates cancer that has begun to grow in the lining of the abdominal organs or cavity. Pleural Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. These two forms of mesothelioma are very distinct and therefore, their symptoms and signs are also unique.
Peritoneal mesothelioma is the least common form. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss, blockage of the colon, problems with blood clotting, fever, and moderate to severe pain in the abdominal area.
The more common pleural mesothelioma can include symptoms such as weight loss, coughing fits, fever, inability to control temperature, chest pains, and difficulty breathing. While symptoms of both types of mesothelioma are very general, it is important to rule it out if you are at risk.
There are a few different paths that your doctor may take in deciding whether or not you are indeed afflicted with mesothelioma. After presenting him/her with your symptoms and signs, your doctor may perform any number of tests, including CAT scans, X-Rays, or an MRI. A CAT scan is basically an advanced form of computer aided X-Ray that allows a doctor to see more clearly the internal organs of the patient. During an MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, a doctor will be able to clearly see any abnormalities in the affected area. Many times, these three methods are used in tandem for the clearest picture.
Should your doctor detect a tumor or other suspicious growth using the above imaging technologies, he/she will want to perform a biopsy. There are several types of biopsies, as well. They range from the non-invasive technique of extracting a small amount of liquid from the growth using a small needle, to a minor surgery, removing a significant portion of the growth.
Because mesothelioma is such an aggressive cancer, it is of the utmost importance that you seek medical advice if any of the symptoms and signs are present. While the majority of symptoms will turn out to be something far more benign in nature than mesothelioma it would be unwise to chance it. Your odds of beating mesothelioma increase dramatically if it is detected earlier.