More mesothelioma patients are seeking second opinions from doctors, which can lead to significant differences in how the cancer is treated.
Although mesothelioma can be detected with the right tests, some doctors can easily mistakenly diagnose the disease as lung cancer, or as something else completely. The mistake is simple to make, especially with a rare cancer such as mesothelioma.
Both cancers have some of the same symptoms. Patients can experience dry cough, chest pain, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. Doctors have been known to misread slides and test results. Sometimes they may not be able to see all the possibilities and overlook key evidence. That’s why it’s important to share your medical and occupational history with the doctor, especially if you think that you were around asbestos.
Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure. Some mesothelioma patients can pinpoint the cause of their cancer to when they worked with asbestos, or asbestos-containing products.
Asbestos products were once commonly used in thousands of products from hairdryers to home insulation. Hundreds of thousands of people who worked around these products were exposed to asbestos on a daily basis. Asbestos is still used in the U.S. today. Throughout the years it’s likely that a number of those exposed have been misdiagnosed.
There are about 3,000 people diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. About 10,000 people die from asbestos diseases annually.
Mesothelioma develops most often in the membrane that lines the lungs called the pleura. Mesothelioma can also develop around the abdomen and the heart.
Doctors can diagnose the type of cancer using several tests including CT scans, scopes and biopsies. Doctors may differ on treatment options depending on the type and stage of mesothelioma.
It’s important to know that seeking a second opinion is not an indictment of the doctor. Doctors are usually glad to recommend other physicians who can help patients get a second opinion. It’s not uncommon for some patients to seek out three or more "second" opinions. Sometimes it’s comforting for patients to hear the opinions from several physicians just to make sure they’re getting the proper treatment and diagnoses.
Of course receiving a second opinion can be expensive. There could be more tests, more travel and more medical costs. But in most cases patients won’t have to undergo the same diagnostic tests twice. Patients are entitled to view and send their medical records to other doctors who will be giving the second opinion.
It’s also important to check with healthcare providers to see if a secondary visit is covered by insurance. Some providers actually require a second opinion before approving major surgery or treatment.
Not to be overlooked during the process is the trust factor. Patients should choose doctors they are most comfortable with. Trust in the medical staff and receiving proper care can drastically improve the quality of life for a mesothelioma patient.