What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Mesothelioma?
Patients with mesothelioma of the lungs may present with respiratory symptoms including persistent cough and shortness of breath. Patients may also complain of sharp chest pain and report weight loss. These symptoms are often confused with other diseases of the lungs including congestive heart failure, pneumonia, tuberculosis or pulmonary embolism. On examination, one may detect decreased breath sounds and dullness to percussion. Digital clubbing may also be seen. Radiography may show unilateral pleural effusion, with more than 60% seen in the right lower lobe.
Mesothelioma of the peritoneum often presents with abdominal complaints of nausea and vomiting, pain, and increased abdominal girth. These symptoms may be mistaken for cholescystitis, liver disease, or bowel disorders. Examination may reveal ascites or abdominal mass. Laboratory and xray may show anemia and bowel obstruction.
Often CT scan, thoracentesis/paracentesis, or biopsy is needed for confirmation of the diagnosis.
