Imaging Scans
If an individual is experiencing mesothelioma cancer symptoms such as dysphagia, difficulty breathing, peritoneal or pleural effusion, chest pain, or wheezing, it is important to seek out a physical examination from a physician in order to properly diagnose these symptoms.
Additional techniques may be employed by the physician in order to correctly diagnose the problem. This might involve PET scans, CT scans, or x-rays. If these scans indicate that the patient may have mesothelioma, a biopsy may be performed in order to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis.
Common Types of Scans
Previous exposure to asbestos accompanying these symptoms may require the use of MRIs, which are diagnostic tools for pericardial mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma, or pleural mesothelioma.
By taking pictures of the tissue through radio waves and magnetic fields, the MRI is able to produce accurate images of the area. These pictures are able to show the contrast between areas in the tissue where cancerous tissues exist. The MRI generates a magnetic field whose magnetization can be changed using radio waves, allowing for the generation of a clear image.
MRIs are able to show malignancies that differ from the healthy tissue. MRIs are harmless as they do not use the onizing radiation which CT scans and x-rays utilize. Furthermore, the MRI is better able to contrast the healthy tissues from the cancerous than the CT scan. Therefore, they provide a more accurate diagnosis.
Combining their ability to provide better images with their low-risk magnetism, MRIs may be the best means of diagnosing mesothelioma. These scans may be the beginning of better prognoses for mesothelioma patients.
Tools for Diagnostic Imaging
MRI
The MRI is a common tool that is used by doctors in order to determine whether a patient has mesothelioma. The scan may also be utilized in order to identify the cancer’s stage.
PET Scan
The PET scan is a type of nuclear medicine scanning technique. It allows doctors to obtain a 3D image of the area along with information regarding tissue function.
CT Scan
CT, also referred to as computed tomography, is able to provide images of an area from different angles.
X-Ray
X-rays are commonly used by physicians as a means to diagnose the condition which may be occurring in a certain area of the body. It will also determine if further testing is required. X-rays of the chest are commonly used in order to diagnose pleural mesothelioma.
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