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Treatment of Mesothelioma Carcinoma

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that can take decades to develop, but it can cause death within just a few months after diagnosis. Because this form of cancer can ravage the body in such a short period of time, it is important to begin a course of treatment as soon as a patient is diagnosed. There are a variety of mesothelioma treatments available.

  1. Locating a Specialist

    • Because mesothelioma is a relatively rare form of cancer, it is best to consult a specialist to determine the best course of treatment. See References for a list of doctors who specialize in treating mesothelioma.

    Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy

    • Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are two ways of treating cancer, and they can benefit some mesothelioma patients. Small amounts of radiation are targeted on the areas of the body where the tumors are concentrated in an attempt to kill of the cancerous cells.

    Surgery

    • Surgical options to treat mesothelioma range from draining fluid buildup from the chest to removing all or part of a lung.

    Prescription Drugs

    • Drugs like Alimta and Avastin are approved for use by patients struggling with mesothelioma. These drugs work by limiting nutrients that are absorbed by the cancerous bodies. Alimta is approved for use only with patients who suffer from pleural mesothelioma (affecting the lining of the lungs).

    Experimental Treatments

    • Cutting edge surgical techniques, clinical trial drugs, and even gene therapy are being tested on a small number of mesothelioma patients in an attempt to find the best way to combat the cancer.

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