Diagnosis of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
How Doctors Identify This Rare and Often Overlooked Cancer
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare cancer affecting the lining of the abdominal cavity. It’s almost always caused by asbestos exposure—but its symptoms are often vague or misdiagnosed. That makes early, accurate diagnosis essential.
This page explains how peritoneal mesothelioma is diagnosed, which tests are involved, and why catching it early can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Why Peritoneal Mesothelioma Is Hard to Diagnose
Peritoneal mesothelioma is often mistaken for:
Ovarian cancer (in women)
IBS or Crohn’s disease
Hernias or bowel disorders
Gallbladder or liver disease
Because symptoms like bloating, indigestion, or abdominal pain are so common, doctors may not initially suspect cancer—especially if a patient doesn’t mention past asbestos exposure.
Tip: If you have any history of asbestos exposure, share that information early and clearly with your doctor.
The Diagnostic Process
Diagnosing peritoneal mesothelioma typically involves multiple steps, starting with symptom review and moving toward imaging, fluid tests, and ultimately a biopsy.
🔍 1. Medical History & Exposure Review
Doctors will begin by:
Asking about symptoms like abdominal pain, swelling, or weight loss
Reviewing any past asbestos exposure (occupational or secondhand)
Your asbestos exposure history is one of the most important clues in reaching the correct diagnosis.
🖼 2. Imaging Tests
These scans help locate tumors, check for fluid buildup, and assess how far the disease has spread.
X-Ray: Can reveal fluid (ascites) or abnormal masses
CT Scan: Gives a detailed view of the abdominal cavity
PET Scan: Highlights cancer activity throughout the body
Imaging alone can’t confirm mesothelioma, but it helps narrow down the possible causes.
💉 3. Blood Tests & Biomarkers
Doctors may run blood tests to check for substances associated with mesothelioma, such as:
Mesothelin
Fibulin-3
CA-125 (commonly used in women)
While not definitive, these markers can support the case for further testing.
🧪 4. Biopsy: The Only Way to Confirm Diagnosis
A biopsy is required to officially confirm peritoneal mesothelioma. It involves removing a small sample of tissue or fluid and analyzing it under a microscope.
Common Biopsy Types:
Needle biopsy: A thin needle is used to collect tissue, often guided by CT
Laparoscopy: A small camera is inserted into the abdomen to visually examine organs and take precise samples
Fluid aspiration (paracentesis): May be used to test ascitic fluid but is not always conclusive
A pathologist will determine if mesothelioma is present and, if so, which cell type (epithelioid, sarcomatoid, or biphasic).
Challenges in Diagnosing Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Rare disease: Many doctors have never encountered a case
Non-specific symptoms: Bloating, fatigue, and bowel changes are easy to misattribute
Delayed suspicion: Without a known history of asbestos exposure, mesothelioma may not even be considered initially
That’s why it’s so important to push for further testing if symptoms persist and no clear cause is found.
Early Diagnosis Leads to Better Outcomes
If caught early—especially before widespread abdominal involvement—patients may be eligible for:
Cytoreductive surgery
HIPEC (heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy)
Longer survival and improved quality of life
Learn more about Treatment Options for Peritoneal Mesothelioma →
We Can Help You Get Diagnosed
Our legal-medical team helps people with suspected peritoneal mesothelioma:
Understand their risk
Get referred for the right tests
Connect with mesothelioma specialists
📞 Call 833-4-ASBESTOS
Or schedule your free health screening today.