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Mesothelioma Diagnosis

In order to make an asbestos mesothelioma diagnosis, doctors will start by taking a full medical history, asking about your exposure to asbestos and any other factors that may be causing your signs and symptoms. They will also do a complete physical examination, including listening to your chest and abdomen with a stethoscope and feeling for lumps or bumps in the area of concern. The following tests may also be performed to confirm or rule out a mesothelioma diagnosis:

Imaging tests used to diagnose mesothelioma:

• Chest X-ray
• CT scan
• PET scan
• MRI scan

Fluid and tissue tests used to diagnose mesothelioma

• Fine needle aspiration and biopsy
• Thoracoscopy
• Broncoscopy
• Laparoscopy
• Mediastinoscopy

You should ask your doctor to explain to you each of the types of tests and procedures they plan to do, covering what to expect, the risks and benefits, the purpose of the procedure, and other important details.