What Tests Are Used To Diagnose Mesothelioma?
Chest x-ray
- A chest x-ray can reveal a pleural effusion when more than 300 mL of fluid is present in the pleural cavity.
- Other signs of pleural mesothelioma that can be seen on a chest x-ray include pleural calcifications, thickening of the pleural, or an irregular pleural-based mass.
CT and MRI
- They are used to determine the tumor burden, demonstrate pleural thickening, assess enlargement of lymph nodes, and to identify effusions.
Tests of tissue and fluid samples
- Thorancetesis is used to obtain pleural fluid, if an effusion is present.
- Thoracoscopy can be used to sample a pleural or pericardial tumor.
- Laproscopy is used to see and obtain a biopsy of a peritoneal tumor.
- Mediastinoscopy allows for biopsy and visualization of the lymph nodes.
Electron microscopy
- The distinction between malignant mesothelioma and benign inflammatory conditions may be difficult. Electron microscopy can be confirmatory.
