Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer caused by inhaled asbestos fibers. It is estimated that around 3,000 new mesothelioma cases are diagnosed every year. Usually, mesothelioma develops from the thin layer of tissue that covers many of the internal organs. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is an aggressive and fatal cancer. Because of mesothelioma’s aggressive and deadly nature, early detection and treatment are quite important.
However, before beginning treatment after a mesothelioma diagnosis, getting a second opinion is important. Even though most patients begin treatment immediately after a first diagnosis, experts advise people to get a second opinion before starting treatment. It is also vital to get a second opinion if one goes to the doctor believing they have mesothelioma, only to be told they have another illness. Receiving a second opinion on a diagnosis, can among other things, help an individual;
- Eliminate the possibility of a misdiagnosis,
- Get more information about their condition, and
- Develop the right treatment strategy.
The following is a more in-depth look at the main benefits of getting a second opinion on a mesothelioma diagnosis.
Mesothelioma is Difficult to Diagnose
As already mentioned, mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer. This form of cancer has a relatively rare occurrence; for instance, approximately 3,000 mesothelioma cases are diagnosed yearly, compared to approximately 235,760 lung cancer cases. Because mesothelioma is not a common type of cancer, not many doctors have experience diagnosing or treating it. Most doctors only see one to two mesothelioma cases in their careers. If a patient receives a mesothelioma diagnosis from a doctor who has only seen one or two mesothelioma cases, seeking a second opinion is a great idea.
Because symptoms of mesothelioma can mimic other conditions, it is possible for a doctor to fail to diagnose mesothelioma and mistakenly diagnose another condition. Also, mesothelioma stages do not always look the same as other forms of cancer. Because of this, an inexperienced physician can make the wrong conclusion about a patient’s mesothelioma stage.
Generally, whether an individual has been diagnosed with mesothelioma and needs to confirm whether they really have mesothelioma or an individual believes they are suffering from mesothelioma but have been diagnosed with another illness, getting a second opinion from a doctor with a lot of experience diagnosing and treating mesothelioma can be beneficial.
Better Understand Mesothelioma
When a person goes to see a mesothelioma specialist for a second opinion, they can be able to ask every question they have and have confidence in the information the doctor shares. Unfortunately, if an initial diagnosis comes from an inexperienced doctor, relying on that particular doctor’s information can be risky. Also, even hearing the same information from an experienced doctor can help a patient better absorb it and understand what is happening to them.
Develop the Right Treatment Strategy
By seeking a second opinion from a mesothelioma specialist, a patient can have a better overall picture of their treatment options and be able to develop the right treatment strategy that is appropriate for them and their family. Usually, different mesothelioma doctors have different ideas about the ideal treatment strategy.
Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment and help you and your family live a more comfortable life.