Medical Health Encyclopedia

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Respiratory system

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Mesothelioma (malignant)

Treatment: Results of treatment for malignant mesothelioma have been disappointing. When found early, surgery may cure it. Having chemotherapy and radiation before the surgery may help increase the chance of being cured. When the disease is too advanced for surgery, chemotherapy or radiation may be used to reduce symptoms, but being cured is usually not possible. Text Continues Below A 2002 study showed that a chemotherapy regimen of two drugs -- cisplatin and pemetrexed -- appears promising in improving survival and decreasing symptoms. Other new chemotherapy drugs and combinations of drugs are gradually improving the treatment of malignant mesothelioma. Consider participating in a clinical trial (test of new treatments), which may give you additional treatment options. Supportive treatment (such as pain relief and oxygen) may also help to relieve symptoms. Support Groups: The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See cancer - support group and lung disease - support group. Expectations (prognosis): The median survival time varies from 4 to 18 months in different studies. However, prognosis depends on the stage of the tumor and whether surgical removal of the tumor is an option. Complications: Rapid spread of the tumor to other organs is a complication. Calling your health care provider: Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms suggestive of malignant mesothelioma.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.