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Mesothelioma Biopsy

A pleural mesothelioma biopsy involves the collection of fluid samples through an invasive surgical procedure.  One of the more common and preferred biopsy methods is fine needle aspiration, which is a quick, safe way of removing samples of cells from the body. For most patients, receiving a biopsy is one of the final steps in confirming a diagnosis.

Taking a Sample

While a tissue sample is being withdrawn, the patient is placed under local anesthesia and a small incision is made in the chest wall. A fine tube, called a thorascope, is then inserted and a small sample of tissue is taken. This sample is examined directly under an electron microscope and a pathologist will make a determination from the appearance of the cell structure. Additional tests may be needed to fully examine the sample.

One of these test fields, called immunohistochemistry, examines the protein molecules on the surface of cells and tests for the presence of biochemical markers that tend to be signs pleural mesothelioma. Recently, a test known as DNA Microarray has become available. This test allows pathologists to further understand the genetic structure of the tumor cells, which helps them determine if mesothelioma cells are present.

Pleural Mesothelioma Biopsy Challenges

Pleural mesothelioma is a challenging form of cancer to diagnose. Historically, the cancer is not typically confirmed until it has reached the final stages of development. This is especially true for the most common variant of the disease, pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lungs and respiratory system. In some cases, several biopsies may be needed if the cancer has metastasized to other areas of the body.

The severe latency period of pleural mesothelioma symptoms is the main contributing factor in the difficulty of diagnosing this cancer. Several decades may elapse between a person’s initial exposure to asbestos and the appearance of symptoms. Symptoms often include breathing difficulties, lack of energy, elevated heart rate, chronic cough and fluid build-up in the chest. These symptoms are often mistaken for bronchitis, emphysema, pneumonia and other lung conditions. In at least 50 percent of cases, there are no symptoms until the cancer has reached Stage 3 or 4 of development.

Patient History

Those who have previously been exposed to asbestos should inform their doctor. In the presence of such symptoms, a physician who knows your medical history can order additional tests to check for signs of asbestos exposure and the development of an asbestos-related disease.

If you would like additional information about mesothelioma biopsies, please fill out the form on this page to receive a complimentary packet in the mail. Our Patient Advocates, who can also offer resources on top doctors and treatment options, can also be reached by dialing 1-800-381-1772.

Sources

1. American Cancer Society. “How is Malignant Mesothelioma Diagnosed?" Detailed Guide: Malignant Mesothelioma. 19 Oct 2006.
2. The Mayo Clinic. "Diagnosis of Mesothelioma." http://www.mayoclinic.org/mesothelioma/diagnosis.html 8 July 2007.
3. National Cancer Institute, U.S. National Institutes of Health. "Mesothelioma: Questions and Answers." National Cancer Institute Factsheet. 13 May 2002. 
4. U.S. National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health. "Mesothelioma." Medline Plus. 16 March 2007. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000116.htm#Signs%20and%20tests