DIAGNOSIS
The procedure for diagnosis varies, depending on the type of mesothelioma you have. Nevertheless, in order to diagnose your condition, your doctor will administer a physical examination to look for odd markers or see if you have lumps on possible affected areas. Imaging tests, such as chest x-ray and CT scans, may also be requested.
Aside from those, a biopsy may also be conducted. This test is the only procedure that can accurately tell whether you have malignant mesothelioma or not. A tissue sample is extracted from you and analyzed under a microscope to see whether you have this condition and what type it is. By identifying the type of mesothelioma you have, your doctor can then determine the type of treatment plan for you.
TREATMENT
Since mesothelioma often progresses rapidly and is diagnosed at its advanced stages, curing some people is difficult and almost impossible. However, some treatment procedures may be able to manage your condition and slow down its development.
Furthermore, treatment for malignant mesothelioma may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
In some cases, alternative medicines are also utilized to manage and control the symptoms. However, before taking any treatment, make sure to carefully discuss it with your doctor first.