Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the peritoneal lining of the abdomen. The cancer is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral fiber used in many industries. Although the exact cause of the disease is unknown, asbestos exposure is the main risk factor. Asbestos can be inhaled or ingested, and it can settle in the body’s organs and tissues, leading to the development of mesothelioma.
When a person is diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, doctors typically use a combination of imaging tests, biopsies, and other tests to investigate the disease. These tests are used to determine the stage of the cancer, as well as the best course of treatment.
Imaging tests are an important part of the investigation. Common tests used to diagnose peritoneal mesothelioma include computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and positron emission tomography (PET) scans. These tests create detailed images of the abdomen, allowing doctors to detect tumors and other abnormalities.
In addition to imaging tests, doctors may perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. During a biopsy, a small sample of tissue is removed from the patient’s abdomen and examined under a microscope for signs of cancer. The biopsy helps doctors determine the type and stage of the cancer.
Finally, doctors may order other tests to investigate the pathology of peritoneal mesothelioma. Blood tests are used to check for signs of infection or inflammation. Doctors may also order a test called an immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. This test uses antibodies to detect proteins that are only present in mesothelioma cells.
Investigating the pathology of peritoneal mesothelioma is an important step in the diagnosis and treatment of this rare and aggressive cancer. Imaging tests, biopsies, and other tests are used to detect tumors and other abnormalities, as well as to determine the type and stage of the cancer. By understanding the pathology of the disease, doctors can develop an effective treatment plan that will give patients the best chance of a successful outcome.