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What are 3 treatment options for mesothelioma?
March 22, 2023

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in construction, shipbuilding, and other industries. Mesothelioma can take decades to develop after asbestos exposure, and unfortunately, it is often diagnosed in advanced stages when treatment options are limited.

However, there are several treatment options available for mesothelioma patients, and the best course of treatment will depend on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the location of the tumors, and the overall health of the patient. In this article, we will discuss three of the most common treatment options for mesothelioma.

Surgery
Surgery is often the first line of treatment for mesothelioma patients, particularly those who are diagnosed in the early stages of the disease. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the cancerous tissue as possible and to prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. There are several surgical options available for mesothelioma, including:

Pleurectomy/decortication (P/D): This procedure involves the removal of the pleura, the thin membrane that lines the lungs and chest wall. During a P/D, the surgeon will remove as much of the cancerous tissue as possible, while leaving the lungs intact. This procedure is often used for patients with early-stage mesothelioma who are not eligible for more aggressive surgery.
Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP): This is a more extensive surgical procedure that involves the removal of the entire lung, the pleura, and other nearby tissues, such as the diaphragm and pericardium. This surgery is typically reserved for patients with more advanced mesothelioma who are otherwise healthy enough to undergo the procedure.
Cytoreductive surgery with heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC): This is a surgical procedure that is used to treat mesothelioma that has spread to the abdominal cavity. During the procedure, the surgeon will remove as much of the cancerous tissue as possible, and then bathe the abdominal cavity with heated chemotherapy drugs. This helps to kill any remaining cancer cells and prevent the cancer from spreading further.
While surgery can be an effective treatment option for mesothelioma, it is not without risks. Surgery can be a major procedure that requires a long recovery time, and there is a risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding tissues. Additionally, not all mesothelioma patients are eligible for surgery, particularly if the cancer has spread too far or if the patient has other health conditions that make surgery too risky.

Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy is often used in combination with surgery or radiation therapy to help kill any remaining cancer cells and prevent the cancer from coming back. There are several chemotherapy drugs that are commonly used to treat mesothelioma, including:

Cisplatin: This is a platinum-based chemotherapy drug that is often used in combination with other drugs to treat mesothelioma. Cisplatin works by preventing cancer cells from dividing and multiplying.
Carboplatin: This is another platinum-based chemotherapy drug that is often used as an alternative to cisplatin. Carboplatin works in a similar way to cisplatin, but it is generally considered to have fewer side effects.
Alimta (pemetrexed): This is a chemotherapy drug that is specifically approved for the treatment of mesothelioma. Alimta works by blocking an enzyme that cancer cells need to divide and grow.
Chemotherapy can be administered orally or

intravenously, depending on the specific drugs and treatment plan. While chemotherapy can be effective in killing cancer cells, it can also have significant side effects, including nausea, vomiting, fatigue, hair loss, and an increased risk of infection. However, many of these side effects can be managed with medication and supportive care.

Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It is often used in combination with surgery and chemotherapy to help improve the chances of a successful outcome. Radiation therapy can be delivered externally, using a machine that directs radiation at the cancer, or internally, using radioactive materials that are placed directly into the affected area.

There are several types of radiation therapy that can be used to treat mesothelioma, including:

Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT): This is a type of external radiation therapy that uses advanced computer software to precisely target the cancer while minimizing exposure to nearby healthy tissue.
Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT): This is a type of external radiation therapy that delivers high doses of radiation to a small area over a few sessions. It is typically used for patients with small tumors that are not amenable to surgery.
Brachytherapy: This is a type of internal radiation therapy that involves placing small radioactive pellets or wires directly into the tumor. The radiation is delivered over a period of several days, and the pellets or wires are removed once the treatment is complete.
Radiation therapy can have side effects, including fatigue, skin irritation, and nausea, but these side effects are generally less severe than those associated with chemotherapy. However, radiation therapy can also cause long-term side effects, such as scarring and damage to nearby organs.

In conclusion, there are several treatment options available for mesothelioma patients, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The best course of treatment will depend on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the location of the tumors, and the overall health of the patient. Mesothelioma is a challenging disease to treat, but with the right combination of treatments and supportive care, many patients are able to achieve a good quality of life and even go into remission. If you or a one has loved been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to work closely with a team of experienced healthcare professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals.