Cancer of the mesothelium is known to have a few primary symptoms. The primary symptom of pleural mesothelioma is a lack of breath as a consequence of pleural effusion ” the buildup of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. Another common symptomis chest pain because the tumor is attacking the chest wall. Symptoms may also include fatigue, loss of weight and night sweats

The primary symptomof patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which is centralized in the abdomen, is the swelling of the abdomen because of fluid accumulation (ascites), bowel obstruction, and stomach pain.

It is important to note that other afflictions or diseases could be causing these symptoms. However, if you have been exposed to asbestos and have these symptoms, you should visit a doctor.

Pleural mesothelioma is problematic to diagnose, because many symptoms are also associated with less serious conditions. Typical symptoms:

• Shortness of breath
• Lower back or chest pains from a buildup of fluid in the pleura
• Running a temperature
• Upset stomach
• Raspy voice
• Difficulty swallowing
• Coughing blood

Do not attempt self-diagnosis. Sufferers of the above symptoms should not panic, and should consult their doctor. The standard way to confirm the condition is with a biopsy. A pathologist takes a small tissue sample from the suspected area and performs an examination that will result in a very accurate diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.

Another option is a CT (Computed Tomography) scan. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner is moved around the body to snap cross-sectional pictures. Sometimes, the patient ingests a dye that helps define the picture. CT scans might be advantageous because of their simplistic and non-invasive nature, and they are considered an effective way of diagnosing the disease. Opinion is divided as to whether the scan is more or less cost-effective than a biopsy. If irregularities are detected, a biopsy may also be ordered to determine if a tumor exists, and if thats the case, if its malignant or benign. Pleural mesothelioma can also be diagnosed by testing a sample of fluid from the pleura for cancer cells.

Any of these methods may also be used to screen for mesothelioma. Patients who may think they are at risk but do not display any symptoms are typically screened, to make sure they are not in danger or to catch the cancer as early as possible. Patients who have in their past inhaled asbestos, should be screened for mesothelioma.