Mesothelioma Diagnosis and Mesothelioma Prognosis

Mesothelioma is a deadly cancer that comes from the mesothelium, which is a protective layer of tissue that surrounds the body's organs. This layer is highly sensitive to certain chemicals that are present in asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is used in building materials and has been around for thousands of years.

Asbestos is considered to be one of the most common minerals in the world, and has been found in almost every region. Since it is commonly found in our environment, it poses little risk. However, it is when the asbestos material is used improperly, that the health risks increase. To put it simply, asbestos is an extremely dangerous mineral that is often present in the manufacturing processes of building materials, but has now also been found in the bodies of many of our loved ones.

Knowing the prognosis of mesothelioma can help family members understand what is expected of them. If diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is critical that any symptoms are reported to a doctor as soon as possible.

The three diagnostic tests that are used to diagnose mesothelioma are the CT scan, the MRI, and the bone scan. During a scan, the doctor will examine the patient's abdomen and chest for tumors, called pleural effusions. If there is a lump on the skin, the doctor will also look for the presence of asbestos fibers.

When doctors do a bone scan, they will use something called the tomography. This exam will show the bones and internal organs. The most common method of diagnosing mesothelioma is through an imaging test.

One of the reasons that the mesothelioma patient's mesothelioma prognosis is so important is because the earlier the symptoms are discovered, the better. The long time that a patient has had the disease could also affect the prognosis. So many people who have the disease are unaware that they have it.

A prognosis of any type of cancer is determined by the stage that the cancer is in. There are four stages, Stage I, Stage II, Stage III, and Stage IV. Stage I and Stage II are the mildest of the four stages. Stage III and Stage IV are considered to be very serious tumors.

In order to make a diagnosis, there must be a definite symptom. Symptoms may include a swelling or enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck area, weight loss, difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, and a general feeling of fatigue.

Most people will develop the type of cancer that they have been exposed to throughout their lives. The amount of exposure that you receive determines the type of cancer that you will develop. But, if you have developed mesothelioma as a result of a particular exposure, it can be difficult to accurately determine whether the cancer is caused by that exposure.

Diagnosis of mesothelioma is also affected by your age. Some younger people do not seem to develop the disease, while older people may still develop it. If you have a family history of mesothelioma, your prognosis is better.

Knowing your own risk factors for developing mesothelioma will improve your mesothelioma prognosis. If you smoke, you should quit. If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, there is a greater chance that you will develop the disease.

People who suffer from malignant mesothelioma are often aware of their situation. When diagnosed, the doctors may prescribe medications to help with the pain but do not be fooled into thinking that the cancer is gone and the disease will never return.