Nearly every patient (98 percent) had pleural tumors,
located in the fluid between the chest wall and lungs. Tissue samples via a
biopsy are taken to determine the cell type. The traditional methods of
biopsies, mainly the “needle core,” are ineffective for diagnosing sarcomatoid
mesothelioma because of its aforementioned similarities to other conditions.
Pain and other symptoms caused by fluid build-up around the chest and/or
abdomen can be treated by drain excess fluid through a needle or tube. These
procedures are known as thoracentesis (chest) and paracentesis (abdomen).
Drugs, radiotherapy, and surgery can also relieve or prevent further fluid
accumulation.
Approximately 80% of all mesothelioma patients have a history of asbestos
exposure. The majority of these patients were employed in an industry that
involved the use of asbestos in some fashion. In addition to occupational
exposure, household exposure of family members is not uncommon. An exposed
individual can carry the asbestos particles on their clothing, skin, and in
their hair when they return home, resulting in paraoccupational exposure. Even
brief exposure to asbestos, as little as one to two months, can result in
long-term consequences. Although the dangers of asbestos have been known for
decades, the long latency period of mesothelioma (30 to 40 years) means that
majority of patients were already exposed as far back as the 1950s. It is
estimated that up to eight million Americans have already been exposed. Several
industries, in particular, show a higher incidence of asbestos exposure:
To ensure a definitive diagnosis, your doctor will first conduct a full medical
and occupational history review. Then you will typically undergo multiple
imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans or PET scans.
It's important to discuss any exposure to asbestos with a physician as early as
possible and seek out a specialist if your risk level is high. It can take
months, and sometimes up to a year, to diagnose this rare cancer. To ensure a
definitive diagnosis, your doctor will first conduct a full medical and
occupational history review. Then you will typically undergo multiple imaging
tests such as X-rays, CT scans or PET scans. The most important step of the
diagnostic process is the biopsy, in which a surgeon collects samples of the
tumor through a minor outpatient surgical procedure known as a thoracoscopy or
video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). A pathologist then analyzes the
samples to determine what kind of disease or cancer is present.
Other types of financial assistance are available. They will help you cover
immediate costs while you wait for compensation. Examples include travel,
housing and treatment grants, VA claims, Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security
disability.
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