Symptoms and diagnosis of mesothelioma

Symptoms
Early symptoms of mesothelioma are non-specific and may delay diagnosis. In general, breathlessness, chest pain and cough are common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma, but in some cases they may not be sufficiently serious to cause the patient to a medical consultation. Some patients complain of pain in the shoulder blade or the lower back. These symptoms mostly occur 2-3 months before a confirmed diagnosis. In peritoneal mesothelioma, abdominal pain and swelling, nausea or vomiting, bowel obstruction and weight loss are the most common symptoms. Importantly, these symptoms are not specific to mesothelioma and can be symptoms of other conditions. The assessment by a qualified physician is always recommended.

As mesothelioma progresses, the pleural effusion (accumulation of fluid between the two pleural layers) occurs in 95% of patients, and this symptom that ultimately leads patients to consult their doctor. During this visit, a chest x-ray can confirm the effusion. A thickening of the pleura may also be noted at this time. If the doctor suspects cancer, he can send his patient to a hospital consultant who specializes in lung cancer and mesothelioma.

When your doctor recommends you send the following information should be given to you:

•Where you are sent.
•When the appointment is made.
•Who you visit.
•What test can you expect.
•When the test results will be available.