Mesothelioma of the pleura

Mesothelioma of the pleura


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 until 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.
Mesothelioma of the pleura

Pleural cancer or mesothelioma: what is the treatment?

Alas, when the cancer of the pleura occurs, it is often too tarred the treatment is therefore, usually only palliative (chemotherapy, surgery), mainly based on the management of pain, which can be very intense. Death occurs within months. Hence the value of screening if it is believed to have been exposed!