Cancer or mesothelioma of the pleura:
when to see?
The main sign of mesothelioma is the collection of fluid in the pleura, causing pain and difficulty in breathing, which is called a pleural effusion or "pleurisy". This symptom was, however, be found in other diseases such as lung infections. Knowing that the effects of asbestos may not appear after many years later, the most important is to realize a lung examination when you think to have been exposed to asbestos, even long ago and for a short period.
Cancer or mesothelioma of the pleura:
What's going on there during the examination?
The diagnosis is made using a simple chest x-ray and scanner. These reviews assess the level of local invasion. To be certain of the diagnosis, sampling by thoracoscopy or pleuroscopy are needed. These reviews are done under anesthesia general in a brief hospitalization. The samples are sent for analysis, which can take several days.