What are the common tests and procedures used to diagnose mesothelioma?
• Imaging: Plain films, CT and MRI are used to detect thickening, nodules and masses on the pleural surface of the lungs, peritoneum and pericardium. Ascites and lymphadenopathy can also be appreciated on imaging.
• Cytology: Examination of pleural, pericardial and abdominal fluid for the presence of malignancy is unreliable in diagnosis as 85% of patients have negative or inconclusive studies.
• Needle Biopsy: Obtaining tissue from the chest cavity via needle biopsy is thought to be approximately 25 – 60% accurate in the diagnosis of mesothelioma. If this procedure is performed, the biopsy tract is radiated to prevent seeding of the tumor.
• Open Biopsy: Obtaining a larger amount of tissue through open biopsy under general anesthesia is the most accurate diagnostic tool for mesothelioma. The tissue is obtained for pathological evaluation of potential malignant cells. Local radiation is also used to prevent seeding of the tumor.