If you have signs and symptoms that might indicate mesothelioma, your doctor will conduct a physical exam to check for any lumps or other unusual signs. Your doctor may order imaging scans, such as a chest X-ray and a computerized tomography (CT) scan of your chest or abdomen, to look for abnormalities.
Is there a blood test for asbestos exposure?
- While there is no blood test for asbestos exposure, asbestos exposure remains significant because nearly 80 percent of all mesothelioma patients had exposure to this carcinogenic mineral. Visiting with your doctor or medical professional can help you determine which of these tests might be the most appropriate for your facts and circumstances.
What does a diagnosis of mesothelioma mean?
- Mesothelioma is a cancer affecting the mesothelial cells which cover most internal organs. There are two main types of mesothelioma; pleural and peritoneal. In rare cases, mesothelioma can occur in the pericardium, the lining of the heart. This is called pericardial mesothelioma.
What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?
- Causes and Risk Factors. A risk factor can be used to determine which populations are more likely to develop mesothelioma. ...
- Asbestos Exposure Is the Leading Risk Factor for Mesothelioma. ...
- Age,Gender,and Occupation. ...
- Smoking and General Health with Asbestos Exposure. ...
- Other Minerals May Contribute to Mesothelioma. ...
- The SV40 Virus. ...
- Genetic Factors. ...
Is a breath test for mesothelioma on the horizon?
- Much of mesothelioma research centers on identifying new and noninvasive biomarkers for earlier detection of the asbestos-related cancer. Progress has been made in finding biomarkers in blood and pleural effusions, but researchers in Belgium now believe the next breakthrough in early diagnosis for mesothelioma cancer may be a breath test.
For people who are known to have been exposed to asbestos, some doctors recommend regular imaging tests, like chest x-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans, to look for changes in the lungs that might be signs of mesothelioma or lung cancer.