mesothelioma pet scan
Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because the disease is rare, symptoms are so similar to those of other illnesses, and symptoms may not appear for many years after exposure to asbestos. For all these reasons, other options for diagnosis are generally considered first. However, mesothelioma can be diagnosed by using the following tests:
• Need a biopsy to confirm diagnosis and determine the existence of cancerous tissue.
• CT Scan (computed tomography), also known as TAC, is an advanced type of x-ray provides highly detailed images of the tissues involved, its location and size.
• PET Scan (positron emission tomography) is a small amount of radioactive substance (usually glucose) is injected into a vein. A scanner takes detailed pictures of areas inside the body where the radioactive substance is present. Radioactive glucose can locate and identify cancer cells because cancer cells use more glucose than normal cells.
• Bronchoscopy is a tube that is inserted into the patient's throat to examine the lungs, trachea and air ducts for signs of mesothelioma.
• Thoracoscopy involves an incision being in the chest wall, viewing the chest with a 'thoracoscope "for evidence of malignant pleural mesothelioma.
• Thoracentesis. The fluid that accumulates in the lungs as a result of mesothelioma is removed from the chest with a needle. This sample is tested to confirm the presence of cancer.
• fluoroscopy. X-rays are always taken from the body and projected onto a small screen, This allows the physician to view internal tissues of the body. Small pieces of tissue are removed and sent to laboratory for analysis.
• Test Mediastinoscopy examines the center of the chest. Containing the heart, lymph nodes and blood vessels. This procedure requires anesthesia and a hospital stay-by usually only for one night.
Many other tests can detect potentially mesothelioma in the body. Although the diagnosis can be difficult, appropriate evidence and a thorough examination, medical history and research in patient exposure to asbestos can make an accurate diagnosis.
As with any disease, Early diagnosis ensures better prognosis. Any type of mesothelioma diagnosis remains can not be only pain, but fatal. In addition, specific types This disease can spread to other areas of the body, causing serious complications.
About the Author:
If you or a loved one in the Baltimore, Maryland area has been exposed to asbestos and has suffered any illness as a result, please contact the mesothelioma lawyers at Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLP today to schedule your initial consultation.
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Various Ways to Diagnose Mesothelioma
