Treatment by Stage

A cancer diagnosis is always shocking and scary, no matter the age of the person involved.  When someone finds out that they have Mesothelioma, depression may set it, anger might be present, and the life of the cancer victim will most certainly change. 

Receiving proper treatment, however, is the most important issue after diagnosis.
Mesothelioma is treated in a variety of ways, largely dependent on which stage of the disease is present in the afflicted individual.  The patient’s age, general health, and the location of the cancer are also taken into consideration when determining the best course of action to be used to fight the disease.

In Stage I, sometimes referred to as “localized malignant Mesothelioma”, treatment might include the following:

• Surgery to remove sections of the pleura, the lung, part of the diaphragm, and part of the lining around the heart.
• Surgery to remove the pleura and the tissue near it, done in order to relieve symptoms.  This is not considered a curative surgery.
• Radiation to relieve symptoms when surgery is not indicated due to poor health.
• The use of a clinical trial; i.e. medications being tested by patient volunteers in order to find better cures for Mesothelioma. 

For those suffering from Stage II or III Mesothelioma, treatment may include the procedures listed below.  Cure is often not possible for those who’ve reached Stage II or III Mesothelioma.

• Thoracentesis or paracentesis – the draining of the fluid around the heart or abdomen, done in order to reduce symptoms and relieve pain.
• Radiation or chemotherapy used to reduce symptoms.
• Injection of chemotherapy or radioactive drugs directly into the pleural space.  This will serve to kill some of the cancer cells and slow down fluid collection in this area.
• Clinical trials

The treatment of Stage IV advanced malignant Mesothelioma will most likely involve keeping the patient as comfortable as possible.  By this time, the disease has spread greatly and a cure is not possible, according to the American Cancer Society.

• Chemotherapy or radiation, though the goals should be clearly explained to the patient and family.  Such aggressive therapy, laden with side affects, may not be desirable given the impossibility of a cure at this time.
• Supportive care - often performed in a hospice-type program.  Advanced Mesothelioma patients usually require more care than a spouse or loved one can reasonably handle.
• Pain medication
• Clinical trials

In treating Mesothelioma, locating a specialist who is willing to discuss and explain all treatment options is essential.  Take time to measure the pros and cons of various treatments and be sure that the patient is comfortable with the choices made.  The Mesothelioma sufferer, like any cancer patient, should have a say in his/her individual treatment program.

Facing treatment for Mesothelioma can be overwhelming.  For more information about the disease, its stages, and options for treatment, take a moment to sign up for the free Mesothelioma Resource Kit available on this website.