Mesothelioma vs Lung Cancer

Mesothelioma and lung cancer have very similar symptoms and are often confused with each other. The similarity in symptoms is what usually causes doctors to misdiagnose mesothelioma patients.

Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure. This exposure occurs when cancerous fibers lodge into the body and form mesothelioma decades later. Mesothelioma can form in the lung, the abdomen, the heart, and the testes. Because the latency period is often misdiagnosed or confused for a common cold or flu and sometimes more severe cancers as the disease progresses.

Lung cancer has several causes and is only present within the lung. Lung cancer often begins in the mesothelial lining and forms a giant tumor encapsulating the lung. Smoking or continual smoke smoking can cause or worsen lung cancer.

A simple imaging test such as a CT scan or X-rays can show the difference between the two cancers. Magnetic field scans can also differentiate the two. Speaking to a qualified mesothelioma doctor when diagnosing ensures a misdiagnosis will not occur.