Many health problems can mimic mesothelioma.
People with pleural mesothelioma are often diagnosed with respiratory illnesses like bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or lung cancer. Both conditions share symptoms like chest pain, pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs), and a recurring cough.
People with peritoneal mesothelioma are often misdiagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and ovarian cancer. All of these conditions cause abdominal-related symptoms like swelling and constipation.