An asbestos cancer diagnosis can be especially difficult to hear. The fact of the matter is that asbestos cancer symptoms are similar to other conditions according to the Mayo Clinic.

Am I sick?

When a potential asbestos cancer diagnosis arises, the first step of most physicians is to get a better idea of the patient’s medical history and history of asbestos exposure.

The next step is a complete physical examination, which may include X-rays of the chest or abdomen and lung function tests to help determine the cancer diagnosis.

The Mayo Clinic indicates that a computed tomography (CT) scan or an MRI may also be useful. Computed Tomography (CT) A CT scan produces detailed pictures of areas inside the body using a computer linked to an X-ray machine.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) may also be conducted to confirm an asbestos cancer diagnosis.

After the MRI a biopsy (tissue sample) of affected or suspicious tissues is taken, with microscopic examination by a pathologist. This is often employed to determine the nature of the asbestos cancer cells. It is the most comprehensive test for making a mesothelioma diagnosis.

The cells are cancerous, what next?

That step to diagnosis is then followed by staging. Once a diagnosis is made, physicians determine the stage (progression) of the cancer by using a chest X-ray, CT scan or an MRI to determine its location within the body and to select the most effective treatment.

Many people have come forward to say their work or home environment led to a diagnosis of mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer or another one of the cancers associated with asbestos.

Men and women diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure or secondary exposure may be entitled to compensation from the companies responsible for their disease.

If you would like more information about your asbestos cancer diagnosis, fill out the form on this page for our free information booklet provided by the law firm of Weitz & Luxenberg P.C.