Diagnosing the Disease
The DiCello Law Firm lawyers understand that diagnosing Mesothelioma isn’t easy. There’s no way to detect it early. In fact the tests that are used to diagnose the condition won’t typically be prescribed until after the onset of symptoms.
Mesothelioma typically takes 20 years or more to develop
So, consider that Mesothelioma typically takes 20 years or more to develop from the date of exposure to asbestos. Consider also that a number of other conditions have many of the same symptoms as those suffering from Mesothelioma. Even though a doctor may order a chest x-ray, a CT scan, or an MRI scan after Mesothelioma like symptoms occur, unless the doctor asks about potential exposure to asbestos, a correct diagnosis may take some time.
Imaging and Tissue Samples
Once your doctor suspects Mesothelioma, tissues samples may be taken in addition to MRI, CT scans and other imaging studies. Taking tissue from a tumor, referred to as a biopsy, is often the definitive way to confirm the diagnosis of Mesothelioma.
Doctors perform these biopsies in a number of ways. Often the easiest way is to use a tube in the area of the tumor which is referred to as a thoracoscopy if it’s in the chest or a laparoscopy if its done in the abdominal area.
At other times, a mediastinoscopy may be done in which a very small incision is made just above the sternum (breast bone) and a tube inserted just behind the breast bone. This lets the doctors look at lymph nodes. This are small, bean-shaped structures that are an important part of the body's immune system, and they contain cells that help your body fight infection as well as cancer. This test will give the doctor more information on the type of cancer and whether it has spread to other areas. The tissue samples taken in these procedures are analyzed by looking at them under a microscope in order to determine whether the tumor is a Mesothelioma or some other type of cancer.
Mesothelioma lawsuits require a special knowledge of medical and scientific issues. They also require significant resources that the patient often can’t pay. Representation by The DiCello Law Firm provides that knowledge, experience and access to resources that often will result in a resolution prior to trial. If you or a loved one has been harmed by Mesothelioma exposure the The DiCello Law Firm can help.