New Blood Test for Mesothelioma

June 1, 2006 - This week, Australian researchers have announced the development of the world’s first blood test for malignant mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of the lungs and chest cavity caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos.

Research was done by doctors and scientists at the University of Western Australia.  Dr. Bruce Robinson headed the team.  Australia has a particularly keen interest in the treatment and cure of mesothelioma as the disease is an ongoing health problem on the continent, with approximately 700 new cases per year, which constitutes the world’s highest rate of mesothelioma per capita.  The United States has an incidence of about 2,200 cases per year, according to an article released by MedicineWorld. 

"Sometimes it can take a very long time to diagnose this cancer but if you've got a blood test, it can help you diagnose it straight away, then the possibility exists that you could get in and treat earlier," said Robinson of the University of Western Australia. 

Robinson expects that the blood test will be available to the general public by early June.  At this time, most doctors use such diagnostic tools as x-rays, MRI, and CT scans to determine whether an individual has mesothelioma.  These tests aren’t always conclusive and biopsies and other procedures are usually required to verify results.

"The test is a breakthrough because it's a simple blood test. It could therefore be applied to patients who are at risk, those who have a history of exposure or symptoms of the disease." Dr Nick Pavlakis, a leading mesothelioma researcher in Sydney, told the Australian Associated Press.