Once an individual has been
diagnosed by a qualified mesothelioma doctor, the next step is to discuss
mesothelioma treatment options and to develop a treatment plan. Recent
scientific research has produced significant breakthroughs with regard to
treatment protocols for mesothelioma patients and more options are now
available for managing mesothelioma and supporting improved quality of life.
Newly diagnosed mesothelioma patients often have many questions for their
doctors about the treatment options that would be most effective for them.
Conventional treatment options for mesothelioma include surgery, radiation and
chemotherapy. Recently, chemotherapy drugs including Alimta® and Cisplatin have
showed promising results in some patients.
Mesothelioma clinical trials as
well as experimental treatments are other options that certain mesothelioma
patients may be eligible to participate in. Our site features a comprehensive
mesothelioma cancer treatment section that includes important information for
patients and families. We've included resources on top mesothelioma experts
such as Dr. Sugarbaker, as well as a comprehensive list of cancer centers where
mesothelioma treatment takes place. Beyond the conventional treatments for
mesothelioma, certain alternative therapies may provide assistance to
mesothelioma patients. We continually update this section of our site as new
mesothelioma treatment information becomes available. Check back often to read
about the most recent advances.
Treatment options for
mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. Many
mesothelioma doctors prefer to combine two or more of these treatments, an
approach known as multimodal therapy. Clinical trials show this approach has
improved survival rates.
Surgery
Curative surgery is available for
early stage patients, while palliative surgery is best for late-stage patients
and helps to ease symptoms.
Radiation
Radiation therapy is used alone
or in combination with chemotherapy or surgery to kill cancer cells, manage
tumors and prevent tumor seeding.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is often combined
with surgery or radiation therapy to kill malignant cells, shrink tumors,
prevent recurrence and relieve symptoms.
Mesothelioma Research
Funding for mesothelioma research
falls far short of that for other cancers, but new drugs and treatment options
are facilitated through important clinical trials. These experimental studies
are small and controlled opportunities for scientists to develop effective
drugs like Cisplatin and Carboplatin. New cutting-edge clinical trials are
being introduced all the time at cancer centers around the world.