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Step 1
Expect a CT Scan to be one of the first tools used in a mesothelioma diagnosis. The CT scan is able to process a detailed image of your abdomen to determine if there are abnormalities in the shape of your mesothelium.
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Step 2
Know that an X-ray is a common first step in any mesothelioma diagnosis process. Although it cannot directly detect the presence of mesothelioma, a chest X-ray is capable of detecting a thickening of the lining of the lungs.
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Step 3
Use the PET scan as another tool to detect the presence of mesothelioma. Although still technically in trials, PET scans introduce radioactive glucose into the body. These radioactive sugars become concentrated in cancerous tissue, although simple scar tissue is known to attract them, as well.
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Step 4
Expect fluid and tissue samples to be taken as a diagnostic tool, although less invasive methods like the CT scan or the MRI are more common.
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Step 5
Know that surgery is sometimes used in the diagnosis process, since it can be difficult in some cases to conclusively identify malignant tissue.
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Step 6
Avoid asbestos at all costs. Asbestos is the leading cause of mesothelioma, so people who are exposed through construction, mining or manufacturing should be tested for exposure on a regular basis.
