When your home is being renovated or when you go to work or school, you may unknowingly be exposed to asbestos, which can put you at risk of developing serious conditions like mesothelioma. This disease is a rare but aggressive form of cancer most often caused by asbestos exposure. According to New York State’s Department of Health, roughly 200 new cases are diagnosed in the state each year. To diagnose mesothelioma, doctors must run several tests, as it can be difficult to identify.
At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., we understand you may feel lost and overwhelmed after exposure to asbestos or having mesothelioma symptoms. With our compassionate lawyers by your side, you do not have to go through it alone. We understand the legal and medical side of mesothelioma, so you can trust us to get to the heart of your claim and fight for your rights. We handle every aspect of your claim, allowing you to focus on treatment and rest. Furthermore, our personalized service gives you a better understanding of your claim and the decisions you have to make for your future.
While the diagnostic process for mesothelioma often involves several tests, including image testing and a physical examination, a biopsy is the only test that can confirm the disease. During this procedure, a doctor collects a tissue sample from the affected area and examines them closely to determine the diagnosis. Depending on the mesothelioma’s location and your comfort level, your doctor may order one of the following types of biopsies:
This is the most accurate form of biopsy for diagnosing mesothelioma. The procedure involves an instrument called a thoracoscope, a thin, tube-like device with a light and camera on the end. The doctor will make a small incision in the chest area and use the thoracoscope to see the cancer, collect a tissue sample, and see if it has spread anywhere.
Also known as a liquid biopsy or fine needle aspiration, a cytology test involves a doctor removing fluid from a suspected cancer site using a needle. While this testing is not as accurate, it can be helpful for more challenging areas of the chest and abdomen.
If your doctor suspects your mesothelioma has spread to your lymph nodes between your lungs, they may conduct a mediastinoscopy to explore the area known as the mediastinum. Like a thoracoscopy, the doctor uses an instrument with a light and camera on the end called an endoscope to explore the lymph nodes and collect a tissue sample.
Doctors use this type of biopsy to examine the abdominal cavity. They make a small incision in the abdomen area and use an endoscope called a laparoscope to get a closer look at the affected area and collect a tissue sample, which they later look at under a microscope to identify mesothelioma cells.
If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, and a cough, you may write it off as another common illness that will pass with time and not see your doctor. However, these symptoms could point to a more serious condition called mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure. This disease is often difficult to diagnose because its symptoms mimic those of more minor issues. Therefore, seeking medical attention for these symptoms right away is essential. If you receive a mesothelioma diagnosis due to asbestos exposure, our experienced lawyers at The Williams Law Firm, P.C. in New York are here to help build a strong claim and fight for you.
Joseph P. Williams has 30 years of experience in the industry and knows what it takes to achieve successful outcomes. He works with you personally and meets with you in your home to help develop a customized legal plan tailored to your needs. Our unmatched services of winning every case give you the best chance of receiving full compensation for your losses. Give us a call at (866) 395-8141 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free consultation today.