Earlier Detection of Mesothelioma Possible from Telltale Protein, Researchers Say

Researchers at Oxford University say they have developed a test that may allow earlier detection of mesothelioma in patients, giving doctors valuable time to treat the rare asbestos-related cancer.

Dr. Helen Davies, who worked on the research, told the British Broadcasting Corp. that the research suggested a way for physicians to more readily identify mesothelioma from the start. “An earlier diagnosis … allows speedier interventions to relieve symptoms as well as initiation of other treatments such as chemotherapty or radiotherapy if appropriate,” Davies said.

According to an article published in the American Journal of Respiratory Critical Care Medicine, the test analyzes levels of a protein closely linked to mesothlelioma that is found in fluid around the lungs. A number of conditions may cause excess fluid in the lining of the lungs. But nine out of 10 people with mesothelioma suffer from the condition which cause difficult breathing and chest pain.

Researchers looked at levels of the protein meothelin which is released in high qualities in the pleural fluid of most mesothelioma patients. They found that levels of the protein were almost six times higher in patients with mesothelioma than in patients with lung cancer that had spread from other parts of the body, and 10 times greater than those with benign condictions, making it a useful indicator protein of the presence of mesothelioma.