Diagnosing mesothelioma can be difficult, and even more so for sarcomatoid mesothelioma. There are a number of factors that may contribute to delay in diagnosis or misdiagnosis:
* Mesothelioma can have a long latency period. It can take years or decades between asbestos exposure and the development of symptoms.
* Mesothelioma can have a long latency period. It can take years or decades between asbestos exposure and the development of symptoms.
* A patient may be unaware that they were exposed to asbestos, and this knowledge can speed an accurate diagnosis.
* Early mesothelioma symptoms are similar to numerous other, less serious conditions and can be easily attributed to something else.
* Sarcomatoid mesothelioma can be confused with other types of cancer such as sarcomatoid carcinoma or sarcoma because the cells can appear similar.
To achieve an accurate diagnosis, sophisticated diagnostic procedures are usually needed. The pathologist and/or physician must be familiar with the appearance of sarcomatoid mesothelioid cells and be able to differentiate them from other types of cancer.
Because sarcomatoid mesothelioma can be confused with other types of cancer, if you’ve been exposed to asbestos and are diagnosed with sarcomatoid carcinoma or sarcoma rather than sarcomatoid mesothelioma, it is highly recommended you seek a second opinion for confirmation.
Receiving a correct diagnosis is important for several reasons. Since sarcomatoid mesothelioma is considered incurable and other types of cancer may be treated more easily, you’ll want to know your actual prognosis when considering treatment options. Also, if you are considering seeking legal help because you suspect your condition may be the result of asbestos exposure, receiving a correct diagnosis is essential to the outcome of your case.
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