New medical technique helps diagnose mesothelioma in patients with a pleural effusion

Free legal review for pleural effusion patients diagnosed with mesothelioma.

In recent news about mesothelioma and asbestos, a new technique may help clinicians hone in on a diagnosis in patients with a pleural effusion of unknown cause.

The study, led by principal investigator Y.C. Gary Lee, Ph.D., appears in the September 1 issue of the American Thoracic Society’s American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.

Currently, the first-line test for mesothelioma cancer in patients with a pleural effusion is "pleural fluid cytology", but this test is not very sensitive.

The study sought to determine whether there would be additional clinical benefit to looking at pleural fluid mesothelin, a protein released in high quantities into the pleural fluid of most patients with mesothelioma.

The results demonstrated median pleural fluid mesothelin levels were over six times greater in patients with malignant mesothelioma than in patients with metastatic carcinomas, and ten times greater than in patients with benign effusions.

Obtaining a prompt diagnosis of mesothelioma has benefits for patients and physicians alike.

An earlier diagnosis allows speedier interventions to relieve symptoms as well as initiation of other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy if appropriate.

Exposure to asbestos is the main risk factor and accounts for virtually all mesothelioma cases.

Legal resources for mesothelioma and asbestos disease
For over two decades, Weitz & Luxenberg P.C. has handled some of the most legally complicated and groundbreaking asbestos litigation in the country, winning many millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements along the way.

People diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure or secondary exposure may be entitled to compensation from the companies responsible for their disease.

If you would like a free consultation or more information about your legal options, please complete the form on this page, and a representative of our law firm will contact you as soon as possible.