Common Tests for Diagnosing Mesothelioma

Before performing a tissue biopsy to diagnose mesothelioma, doctors may check for abnormalities. This process may involve various tests, like bloodwork and imaging scans.

Doctors often use imaging scans in the initial stages of a mesothelioma diagnosis. These tests commonly include CT scans, MRIs and X-rays. Scans, like a chest X-ray, can help doctors determine the extent and location of tumors. Doctors may also use imaging to see how far the disease has progressed.

Each scan has different benefits and limitations. Depending on each case, doctors may recommend more than one type of imaging scan. After a diagnosis, doctors may again use these tests to help determine the stage of the disease, monitor spread and check for any fluid buildup.

Biopsies are an important step in diagnosing and treating mesothelioma. A biopsy, which removes tissue or fluid for testing, is the only way to diagnose mesothelioma. Imaging scans and other tests can play a role in the diagnosis process, but only biopsy testing can be conclusive. A biopsy can also help determine important disease factors, like cell type.

A biopsy is often performed with a needle that extracts a fluid or tissue sample. After the procedure, a pathologist will analyze the sample. Some biopsy methods are less invasive than others.

Blood tests measure indicators of mesothelioma, called biomarkers, in a blood sample. Doctors may combine bloodwork with a biopsy to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis. Blood tests alone cannot diagnose mesothelioma.

MESOMARK is a blood test that has approval for some mesothelioma monitoring. While other tests may identify general cancer indicators, MESOMARK is specific to mesothelioma indicators. Advances in blood test methods may someday support earlier mesothelioma diagnosis.

Staging is another important step in the initial diagnostic process. After confirming a mesothelioma diagnosis, doctors often go on to estimate its stage. The most common mesothelioma staging method is the tumor node metastasis (TNM) staging system. Stages range from early stages (1 and 2) to later stages (3 and 4).

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