Pleural fluid testing shows promise for mesothelioma diagnosis

Sep 4, 2009

A research team from Oxford University developed a new diagnostic test for mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer that is caused by asbestos exposure. This new test looks at levels of a protein called meothelin in patients’ pleural fluid – fluid found in the pleural cavity surrounding the lungs.

Currently, doctors use a diagnostic test called pleural fluid cytology, a lab test that looks for cancer cells, but the test is not very sensitive. By looking at the pleural fluid samples from more than 200 patients of a respiratory clinic, researchers found that mesothelioma patients had meothelin levels that were six times higher than patients with secondary lung cancers and 10 times higher than patients with benign conditions.

Using the meothelin test, clinicians will be able to identify and diagnose mesothelioma patients earlier, reducing the number of invasive tests and procedures they need, as well as requiring less time in the hospital. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and symptom relief can begin sooner with an earlier diagnosis, and worker’s compensation claims can be initiated once the diagnosis has been confirmed.

For the full story, go to BBC News.

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