Mesothelioma is a serious disease that develops as a result of exposure to asbestos (in most people). The trouble with this form of cancer is that it has very nonspecific symptoms, which can make it hard to diagnose. A difficult diagnosis often means that by the time it is diagnosed, the condition has worsened significantly. Sometimes, there is nothing that the medical providers can do but to help make the patient more comfortable.
Presently, the best way to identify mesothelioma is through a biopsy. It’s the only way to guarantee that a diagnosis is accurate, so if your medical provider has not ordered one, it is a good idea to get one as soon as possible. The prognosis, as well as your treatment options, will depend on the diagnosis.
Why do so many patients face poor prognoses with mesothelioma?
Many patients struggle with their diagnoses because it took so long for the disease to be identified. As a result, they may be in the advanced stages of the disease, which means that there are fewer treatment options. For this reason, it’s important to monitor your own health or the health of your loved ones if you know that you or they have been exposed to asbestos at any time. Early identification of mesothelioma can help providers catch it and treat it, giving you or a loved one the best chance of survival.
These are a few things to know about mesothelioma. It’s a dangerous condition, but there are some treatments that can help if you can get a proper diagnosis quickly.