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Malignant mesothelioma has a few primary symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas primary symptom is having trouble breathing due to pleural effusion ” the buildup of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. The next most common symptomis chest pain because the chest wall is being attacked by the tumor. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats

The most common signof patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, which begins in the abdomen, is fluid buildup (known as ascites) in the abdomen causing abdominal swelling, pain in the abdomen, and blockage of the bowel.

It is important to note that these symptoms could be caused by a myriad of diseases or conditions. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.

Pleural mesothelioma cancer is hard to identify, because the symptoms are also experienced in less serious health issues. Typical symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
• Running a temperature
• Nausea
• Raspy voice
• Difficulty swallowing
• Coughing up blood

Do not attempt self-diagnosis. Sufferers of the above symptoms should not panic, and should consult their doctor. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist removes a piece of tissue from the region that cancer is suspected and examines it to return a highly accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are generally not painful.

CT scans (Computed Tomography) are an option to avoid a biopsy. A CT scan is basically an X-ray procedure where cross-sectional images are taken as a scanner rotates around the body. Sometimes, the patient ingests a dye that helps define the picture. CT scans have the advantage of being non-invasive and easier, and they are recognized as being effective in diagnosis. Beliefs vary whether a biopsy or scan is more cost-effective. If there are irregularities, a biopsy may be needed on top of the CT scan to confirm whether or not the irregularity is a tumor, and if thats the case, if its malignant or benign. It is also possible to diagnose pleural mesothelioma by looking for cancer cells in a sample of fluid from the pleura.

Any of these methods may also be used to screen for mesothelioma. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical symptoms, to make sure they are not in danger or to catch the cancer as early as possible. People who need to be screened include those with a history of asbestos exposure..