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The Philadelphia mesothelioma attorneys at the law firm of Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler are pleased to report that a new study indicates that a percutaneous needle biopsy procedure may prove helpful as a diagnostic tool for mesothelioma. Research aimed at identifying new ways to diagnose mesothelioma as well as developing new treatments is critical to improving the survival rates of mesothelioma victims.
Mesothelioma is a rare lethal cancer caused by an exposure to asbestos that affects an estimated 2,500 to 3,000 people each year in the United States. Mesothelioma can occur in the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Diagnosing mesothelioma is a challenge because mesothelioma symptoms often mimic those of numerous other conditions.
The study detailed below may be particularly helpful in diagnosing peritoneal mesothelioma. Peritoneal mesothelioma is found in the peritoneal membrane that lines the abdominal cavity. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, swelling, weight loss, nausea, vomiting and a fluid accumulation in the abdomen known as ascites. These symptoms alone are not conclusive enough for a confirmed diagnosis. Additional tests are required and a diagnosis typically takes months to confirm. The new study may offer physicians some assistance in making an accurate diagnosis when patients present with unclear abdominal symptoms.
A percutaneous biopsy is a method of removing a small sample of cells or tissue that can be examined in a laboratory with the objective of obtaining a diagnosis. The procedure is accomplished by inserting a needle through the skin to the specific location where the targeted sample needs to be retrieved. A biopsy coupled with an ultrasound allows physicians to clearly visualize the exact location of the abnormality. This helps minimize the risk of complications.
A new retrospective study appeared in the October issue of the World Journal of Surgical Oncology. There were 153 participants in the study, all of whom had abdominal swelling for unknown reasons. An abdominal ultrasound was performed on each study participant and all of the participants showed some degree of irregularity. They then underwent a percutaneous needle biopsy guided by an ultrasound. A satisfactory tissue sample was attained in 91.5 percent of the cases. A diagnosis accuracy rate of 92.8 percent was achieved. This is equivalent to 142 out of 153 patients. Eleven of the patients were correctly diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma. Other diagnoses included adenocarcinoma, peritoneal lymphoma, peritoneal infections and peritoneal tuberculosis.
Using a percutaneous needle biopsy as a diagnostic tool for peritoneal mesothelioma can have several benefits. The procedure can be performed in an outpatient setting. It has been determined to be a relatively simple and safe technique. Also, it has been shown to be highly accurate and carries a low occurrence rate of injury and complications. It is well documented that an early diagnosis of many diseases including mesothelioma is crucial for early initiation of treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment is generally associated with better outcomes.
If you or someone you love has suffered exposure to asbestos and developed mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis or any other asbestos-related disease, we encourage you to contact the mesothelioma law firm of Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable team of Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyers can ensure that your rights are fully protected and that you obtain the compensation that you deserve. Our law offices are centrally located in Center City Philadelphia enabling us to represent clients in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Call us today at 1-800-369-0899 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced mesothelioma attorney or contact us online.