Biomedical engineers at Carnegie Mellon University are testing a new method for the diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma that could be less invasive and less painful. Currently, pleural mesothelioma, a rare cancer that attacks the linings of the lungs and chest, is diagnosed via an open surgery where suspected cancerous cells are removed and studied under a microscope.
This new method would allow the fluid surrounding the suspected cancer cells to be removed via thoracentesis, which is where fluid is removed using a needle. So, rather than an invasive and uncomfortable procedure where tissues must be removed, a simple withdrawal of fluid could diagnose mesothelioma.
So far, the experimental diagnosis procedure has been performed on 34 patients with 100% accurate results. The researchers are also optimistic that studying the fluid rather than tissues can help them to identify which cells are actually cancerous and which cells are representing benign mesothelial proliferation, a condition where non-cancerous cells represent themselves as cancerous.
This study is good news for anyone that may suspect that they have mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a currently incurable form of cancer that is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. Asbestos is a naturally-occurring compound that has been used in commercial applications since the beginning of the 20th century. However, employers didn’t always warn their employees about the dangerous of asbestos exposure, nor did they offer them protection from it for decades.
If you contracted mesothelioma and believe that your employer could have better warned or protected you from asbestos exposure, our Baltimore asbestos personal injury attorneys at The Law Office of Brown | Kiely, LLP can help. We have the experience to get you or your family member compensation for your employer’s negligence that can help with medical bills and further treatments.
For help with your case, call us today at (410) 625-9330.
