A definitive diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma based on cytology alone is fraught with problems, and should be thoroughly investigated by attorneys on both sides of the litigation according to a Law 360 article authored by Schiff Hardin partners Edward Casmere and Joshua D. Lee. Asbestos litigants are increasingly presented with fewer medical records and less evidence to evaluate malignant pleural mesothelioma claims. Frequently, the only material provided for analysis is from a cytological diagnosis made from cells obtained from a pleural effusion, and not from a biopsy of the tumor itself. Diagnosing malignant pleural mesothelioma from cytology alone is extremely difficult for even the most seasoned cytopathologist, yet many participants in the tort system fail to adequately scrutinize such claims.
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