Mesothelioma – Diagnosis of the disease, removal of fluid and lymph node analysis

The symptoms of mesothelioma are similar to those displayed by other more widespread and less serious illnesses. For example a cough and fever may be mistaken for a common cold. It is for this reason that mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose and may be overlooked. However, once a patient has established that they may have contracted a more serious illness through asbestos contact then they will have to undergo a series of diagnostics which will help to evaluate the type and severity of the disease.

Removal of Fluid
If a patient has pleural effusion (fluid in the pleural space) a sample of this fluid will be removed to test its chemical make up. This is called pleural aspiration or thoracocentesis if the fluid is being removed from the patients’ chest. This is done by inserting a needle into the chest cavity. If the fluid is being removed from the abdomen, the test is called an abdoparacentesis or peritoneal aspiration. The sample will be looked at to determine whether there are cancerous cells present.

Lymph Node Analysis
Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system and are large cells (the size of a pea) that help the body fight infections and cancers. Cancers frequently spread to lymph nodes but mesotheliomas spread less often. A mediastinoscopy, where a light is inserted under the sternum at neck level and then moved down to the chest, allows a view of the lymph nodes and for a sample to be taken. This can then be tested for mesothelioma. For other methods of diagnosis please see Mesothelioma – Diagnosis of the disease, x-ray and tissue removal.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos related illness then we want to hear from you. If it can be proven that your employer is to blame for your illness then YouClaim can handle your claim and offer you a 100% No Win No Fee service. See No Win No Fee for more information.

Please call free on 0800 10 757 95 or fill in the online claim form today.