Mesothelioma Diagnosis
A mesothelioma diagnosis is best confirmed through a biopsy test. If you have a history of asbestos exposure and symptoms of mesothelioma, your doctor will order blood tests and imaging tests such as a chest X-ray, and CT scans. He will use diagnostic testing to detect and find out the extent of cancerous mesothelioma cells in your body. A biopsy is the only gold-standard and definitive way to confirm a diagnosis.
Oftentimes, mesothelioma blood tests are used for measuring treatment response. Imaging tests reveal the exact location and extent of mesothelioma tumor cells.
Common Imaging Tests
X-Rays: X-rays are used to produce basic images of body areas, such as tumors or fluid.
CT Scans: These scans use computer software to integrate multiple fine X-rays to create detailed images of organs and internal structures. CT scans help doctors determine the location and the extent of mesotheliomas.
MRIs: This test uses electromagnetic technology to generate precise images. MRIs are especially useful when looking at the spread of cancer to the bone, nerve and brain tissue.
PET Scans: A type of CT scan where the patient receives an IV dose of a radioactive substance, which makes tumor cells light up on scans. Mesothelial cell inflammation may be caused by rapid growth or an infection, which could be a sign of cancer.