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Mesothelioma qualified by PET/CT scan combo
Recent article published by Department of Thoracic Surgery at Catholic University in Rome, Italy, suggests a combination of PET scan and CT scan may increase the provider’s ability to qualify present stages of mesothelioma. A PET scan shows patterns and abnormalities on a molecular lever, while a CT scan provides an overall map of the body’s interior organs and tissues. Together, these two scans are thought to give attending physicians a thorough understanding of present malignant mesothelioma that would not be afforded by one scan alone.
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer considered fatal and without cure. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to toxic asbestos fibers which can begin a cancerous development in organ lining if inhaled or ingested. There are two types of mesothelioma: pleural mesothelioma, which is specific to lung lining, and peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects other organ linings such as the heart or diaphragm. Both types of mesothelioma are characterized by irregularly patterned malignant tumors.
Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose. Once original asbestos exposure has begun cancerous development, the disease goes through a long latency period, often between twenty and fifty years. In its final, and most aggressive stage, signs begin to demonstrate. Mesothelioma symptoms mimic those of bronchitis or pneumonia, making it difficult to diagnose even in its final stage. Once a proper diagnosis has been made patient life expectancy is short and grim.
There are many mesothelioma treatments available. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are often administered in combination for best results. Some patients who are not healthy enough to receive such demanding procedures may choose palliative care to focus on pain management and comfort. Palliative care may also include surgeries to aid in patient breathing and minimize tumor spread.
According to recent studies a PET/CT combination gives providers a better look at each mesothelioma case individually. This would allow providers to more accurately qualify which patients are strong enough for surgery and other invasive treatments, and which are not. Being able to see tumor patterns, sizes and whereabouts would allow providers to choose treatment options appropriate for each patient. PET/CT scans done together are suggested as a good tool for follow-up care. Providers can check on spread, metastasis or infection without disturbing a patient’s rest and recuperation.
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