What is mesothelioma treatment. Who can treat patients suffering with this ailment Are they specialists?
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that arises in the mesothelial cells, which line various body cavities such as the lungs, abdomen, and heart. Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the stage of the disease, the location of the tumors, and the overall health of the patient.
Treatment options may include:
a) Surgery: For patients with localized mesothelioma, surgical resection of the tumors may be possible. This involves removing the affected tissues and organs. Different types of surgeries may be performed, such as pleurectomy/decortication (removal of the pleural lining), extrapleural pneumonectomy (removal of a lung and surrounding tissue), or peritonectomy (removal of the affected peritoneum).
b) Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to kill cancer cells. It can be administered externally (from outside the body) or internally (brachytherapy, using radioactive sources placed directly in or near the tumors).
c) Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves using anti-cancer drugs to destroy rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. Drugs can be administered orally, intravenously (IV), or both.
d) Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy drugs are designed to specifically target proteins involved in the growth, survival, and spread of cancer cells. One example is bevacizumab (Avastin), which targets the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to inhibit the formation of new blood vessels that supply tumors.
e) Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy drugs help the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. This can be done through immune checkpoint inhibitors, which block proteins on the surface of cancer cells or immune cells that prevent the immune system from functioning effectively. Examples of these drugs are pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and nivolumab (Opdivo).
2. Specialists who treat Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is usually managed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists who collaborate to provide the best care to patients. This team may include:
a) Medical oncologists: Lead and oversee the overall medical management of the patient's condition, including recommending the most suitable treatment options.
b) Surgical oncologists: Perform surgical procedures to remove the tumors and associated tissues.
c) Radiation oncologists: Develop and administer radiation therapy plans, ensuring that the precise radiation dose is delivered to the desired area.
d) Pulmonologists: Specialists in lung diseases who play a crucial role in managing mesothelioma patients with lung involvement.
e) Thoracic surgeons: Perform surgeries on the chest area, such as pleurectomy and pneumonectomy.
f) Interventional radiologists: Use imaging techniques to guide biopsies, install drainage catheters, and administer localized therapies.
g) Pathologists: Analyze tissue samples and biopsies to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and determine its type.
h) Palliative care specialists: Provide supportive care to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life for patients with advanced or terminal mesothelioma.
It's important for patients to seek care from experienced specialists in mesothelioma treatment, as the rarity of this cancer requires specialized knowledge and expertise to ensure the best possible outcomes.