Treatment For Malignant Mesothelioma: Understanding Your Options
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is often caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing until the 1980s. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to understand the treatment options available to you.
Understanding Mesothelioma Treatment Options
Surgery
Surgery is often the first line of treatment for mesothelioma. Depending on the stage of the cancer, doctors may perform a pleurectomy/decortication (P/D) or an extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) to remove as much of the cancer as possible. In some cases, surgery may be followed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. For mesothelioma, chemotherapy is often given in combination with surgery or radiation therapy. There are several chemotherapy drugs approved for mesothelioma, including pemetrexed and cisplatin.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It may be used to shrink tumors before surgery or to kill any remaining cancer cells after surgery. Radiation therapy can be delivered externally or internally, depending on the location and size of the tumor.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a newer type of cancer treatment that works by boosting the body's immune system to fight cancer. One type of immunotherapy called checkpoint inhibitors has shown promise in treating mesothelioma by blocking proteins that help cancer cells evade the immune system.
Multimodal Therapy
Multimodal therapy is a combination of two or more types of cancer treatment, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. This approach is often used for mesothelioma to increase the chances of a successful outcome.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments for cancer. Mesothelioma patients may be eligible to participate in clinical trials to access experimental treatments that are not yet available to the general public.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
Symptoms of mesothelioma can include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, fatigue, weight loss, and abdominal swelling.
What causes mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos. Other risk factors include radiation exposure, a family history of mesothelioma, and certain genetic mutations.
How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
Diagnosis of mesothelioma typically involves a combination of imaging tests, biopsies, and blood tests.
What is the prognosis for mesothelioma?
The prognosis for mesothelioma depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the type of mesothelioma, and the patient's overall health. While mesothelioma is a serious and often fatal cancer, there are treatment options available that can improve survival and quality of life.
Is mesothelioma curable?
While mesothelioma is not currently curable, there are treatment options available that can extend survival and improve quality of life.
What are the side effects of mesothelioma treatment?
The side effects of mesothelioma treatment can vary depending on the type of treatment used. Common side effects include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and skin irritation.
Can mesothelioma come back after treatment?
Yes, mesothelioma can recur after treatment. Patients who have been treated for mesothelioma will require regular check-ups to monitor for signs of recurrence.
What can I do to support a loved one with mesothelioma?
You can offer emotional support by listening, spending time together, and helping with daily tasks. You can also help your loved one to research treatment options and connect with support groups for mesothelioma patients and caregivers.
Pros of Mesothelioma Treatment
Treatment for mesothelioma can improve survival, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life.
Tips for Coping with Mesothelioma
Some tips for coping with mesothelioma include seeking emotional support, staying informed about treatment options, and taking care of your physical health through exercise and a healthy diet.
In Summary
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that requires prompt treatment. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, multimodal therapy, and clinical trials are all options for mesothelioma treatment. While mesothelioma is a serious and often fatal cancer, there are treatment options available that can improve survival and quality of life.
