We often confuse mesothelioma with lung cancer. Mesothelioma attacks the lung’s protective lining, while lung cancer develops within the tissue itself. Asbestos exposure not only promotes mesothelioma but also increases the risk of lung cancer, particularly among smokers.
Asbestos exposure is the most significant risk factor for mesothelioma. However, both diseases are entirely distinct. They may have similar symptoms and causes, which can make differentiation a little tricky for anyone other than a practicing doctor. Let’s look at some of their distinguishing factors further.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that surfaces at the outer layer of organs like the heart, lungs, abdomen, and testicles. It starts as the uncontrolled growth of cells in the mesothelium, a thin layer of tissue that lines these cavities and organs. This uncontrolled growth can lead to the formation of tumors and fluid buildup. It can then cause complications and health issues in the long run.
Asbestos exposure is the most frequent cause of mesothelioma. The risk varies depending on the type of asbestos. Due to the slow progression of mesothelioma, symptoms may not show up for 10 to 40 years after exposure. Due to this long delay, many patients explore their mesothelioma payout timeline to understand their legal compensation options for medical and other costs.
What is Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer is a tragically spread disease that occurs when cells inside the lung tissue grow uncontrollably. They form a cancerous tumor that makes breathing difficult. It also spreads across the body. The most common cause of lung cancer is smoking. It also develops because of radon gas, asbestos, and other environmental toxins. It is more prevalent than mesothelioma and also has a genetic influence.
Key Differences in Symptoms
Some common symptoms of mesothelioma include:
- Shortness of breath
- Fluid buildup around the lungs (pleural effusion)
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
However, lung cancer may have different or additional symptoms like:
- Persistent cough
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
- Hoarseness
Overlapping Symptoms and Why They Confuse Patients
Some symptoms appear familiar in both cancers and often delay accurate diagnosis. Those are:
- Persistent cough
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Unexplained weight loss
These overlapping symptoms demand doctors rely on much more advanced techniques to differentiate the two and provide accurate diagnoses thoroughly. These advanced diagnostic methods are:
- Imaging Tests
Chest X-rays and CT scans identify abnormalities. However, they cannot confirm cancer type. Mesothelioma often appears as diffuse thickening of the pleura. Meanwhile, lung cancer shows discrete nodules or masses. PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scans help assess metastasis, which is more common in lung cancer.
- Biopsies and Histopathology
A biopsy is the gold standard for accurate diagnosis of mesothelioma and lung cancer.
- Lung cancer biopsies often use bronchoscopy or sputum cytology to sample lung tissue.
- Mesothelioma biopsies require thoracoscopy or image-guided needle aspiration to collect pleural tissue.
- Blood Tests and Biomarkers
Another way to differentiate mesothelioma from lung cancer is to check blood biomarkers. A blood biomarker reveals information about health or disease processes within the body. If your blood has high levels of mesothelin and fibulin-3, it might indicate signs of mesothelioma. On the other hand, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is more common in lung cancer.
Endnote
These cancers are similar but differ in their causes, symptoms, and treatments. Doctors usually diagnose them through imaging tests, biopsies, and blood markers. Mesothelioma usually comes from asbestos exposure, whereas lung cancer has several sources, such as smoking. Ensure you understand these differences to facilitate early detection and treatment.
