Mesothelioma cases often turn on expert testimony about diagnosis and causation: what the disease is, and what caused it. Newer medical tools, including biomarkers and genetic testing, can make that testimony stronger by adding objective support. They can also create new disputes if the defense tries to reframe what the test results mean.
This post explains how common mesothelioma biomarkers fit into a case, how genetics can affect causation arguments, and why the “science portion” of the case needs careful handling in Louisiana litigation.
Biomarkers in Mesothelioma Proof
A biomarker is a measurable lab finding that helps doctors classify a disease. In mesothelioma, pathology labs may use tests like BAP1 immunohistochemistry (IHC) and CDKN2A (p16) deletion testing by FISH as part of the diagnostic workup.
Research has found that loss of BAP1 expression can support a mesothelioma diagnosis in certain settings, but it does not appear in every case, so it cannot rule mesothelioma out. Studies also describe homozygous CDKN2A deletion as helpful in distinguishing malignant mesothelioma from reactive (non-cancerous) mesothelial changes in difficult samples.
In litigation, this type of testing can strengthen the medical foundation of the case. It can also trigger “dueling expert” fights about what the result does and does not prove.
Genetics, Alternative Explanations, and Causation
Genetic evidence can cut both ways. For example, medical literature discusses BAP1 alterations in pleural mesothelioma, including the fact that changes may arise as somatic (tumor-only) events or, less commonly, as germline findings (inherited predisposition).
Defense teams sometimes use genetics to suggest an alternative explanation. Plaintiffs’ experts typically respond by keeping the focus on exposure history, medical consensus, and how the facts fit together.
Expert Testimony Standards in Louisiana Courts
Scientific evidence still must clear the courtroom gate. Louisiana’s expert rule requires a showing that the testimony rests on sufficient data, reliable methods, and reliable application to the case facts.
That framework encourages focused, case-specific opinions, especially when the defense argues that an expert is leaning on generalities rather than the plaintiff’s real exposure story.
Speak With Pourciau Law Firm About Your Options
Pourciau Law Firm represents people in Louisiana with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. If newer medical testing or genetics is becoming a battleground in your case, we can explain how the evidence fits, what questions to ask, and what comes next. Call us at 504-305-2375 or submit an online request.