There are currently about 3000 new cases of Mesothelioma diagnosed per year, mostly in men over the age of 40.

The earlier mesothelioma is detected, the better your chances are for an effective treatment. To determine whether a person has mesothelioma, doctors may use one or more of these diagnostic methods:

• Chest X ray
• CAT scan - CT or Computerized Tomography
• MRI - Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• PET scan - Positron Emission Tomography
• PFT - Pulmonary Function Test
• Transbronchial biopsy - A flexible, lighted scope is passed down the trachea to the bronchi area of the lungs.
• Thoracotomy - During surgery, the chest is opened and examined, usually between two of the lower ribs on one side.
• Thoracoscopy - A thoracoscope with a video camera is sent through an incision between the ribs.
• Centesis - Pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial fluid is drained and evaluated. This technique is used both for diagnosis and to relieve pressure, pain, and fullness in the chest or abdominal areas.