Diagnosis of Mesothelioma

Diagnosing mesothelioma is usually hard, because the conditions appear like those of a number of other conditions. Diagnosis starts with a study of the patient's medical record. A history of contact with asbestos may amplify clinical suspicion for mesothelioma. A physical examination is performed, followed by chest X ray and often lung function diagnostic tests. The X ray may disclose pleural thickening commonly seen after asbestos exposure and increases suspicion of mesothelioma. A CT (or CAT) scan or an MRI is often done. If a lot of of fluid is present, abnormal cells may be discovered by cytopathology if this fluid is drawn out with a syringe. For pleural fluid, this is done by thoracentesis or tube thoracostomy (chest tube) ; for ascites, with paracentesis or ascitic drain ; and for pericardial (disambiguation needed) effusion with pericardiocentesis. While lack of malignant cells on cytology does not entirely exclude mesothelioma, it makes it a great deal more unlikely.