Once a cancer diagnosis confirms mesothelioma, choosing the right approach to care becomes a priority. There are several treatment options for mesothelioma, and selecting the most effective path depends on factors like cancer stage, the patient’s age, overall health, and the type of mesothelioma involved. The goal is to kill cancer cells, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life.
Common Treatment Approaches
1. Surgery to Remove Tumors
For many mesothelioma patients, surgery offers the potential to remove tumor cells or reduce fluid buildup.
- Pleurectomy/decortication (P/D) involves surgically removing the lung’s lining without removing the lung itself.
- Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) surgically removes the affected lung, part of the diaphragm, and nearby lymph nodes to manage disease spread.
- Cytoreductive surgery combined with heated chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a common approach for treating peritoneal mesothelioma, involving the removal of visible tumors followed by the application of warm chemotherapy directly to the abdominal cavity.
These procedures may be paired with other treatments to destroy remaining mesothelioma cells.
2. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation beams to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumors. It is often used after surgery to target any remaining cells and prevent recurrence.
- Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) allows precise delivery, protecting healthy tissue.
- A radiation oncologist tailors the radiation plan based on imaging tests and tumor location.
Radiation may be used for pain management or to treat advanced malignant mesothelioma when surgery isn’t viable.
3. Chemotherapy
A mainstay of malignant mesothelioma treatment, chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth.
- Often a first-line treatment when surgery isn’t an option.
- May be delivered systemically or directly into the abdominal cavity (for peritoneal mesothelioma).
Chemotherapy is known to extend survival, especially when combined with surgery and radiation.
4. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
These newer methods are among the most promising treatment options today.
- Targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules involved in tumor growth.
- Immunotherapy drugs work by strengthening the body’s immune response, helping it recognize and attack cancer more effectively.
They are typically available through clinical trials or cancer centers with advanced cancer care teams.
Alternative and Supportive Therapies
1. Palliative Care
Palliative care helps relieve symptoms and manage side effects such as
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Skin rashes
- Fatigue
This form of care is essential in advanced cases or when curing mesothelioma is not possible. It may also include access to support services and hospice care.
2. Alternative Treatments
While not a replacement for standard therapies, some patients explore:
- Alternative medicine for pain relief
- Dietary support
- Mind-body therapies
These should always be discussed with your cancer care team to ensure safety and compatibility with other treatments.
Factors That Influence Treatment Plans
Every treatment plan is individualized. The choice of treatment for mesothelioma depends on:
- Type of mesothelioma: pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma, etc.
- Stage of the cancer: Early stage vs. advanced malignant mesothelioma
- Spread to other areas: lymph nodes, tissue lining, or healthy tissue
- The patient’s overall health and risk factors
Doctors often use positron emission tomography scans, tissue samples, and imaging tests to guide decisions.
Promising Advances and Clinical Trials
The National Cancer Institute, American Cancer Society, and major cancer centers continue to research new and effective treatments for mesothelioma.
Participating in clinical trials may give patients access to:
- Investigational immunotherapy drugs
- Cutting-edge targeted therapy
- Combinations of existing treatments aimed to improve outcomes
Clinical trials are especially valuable for those with advanced disease or those who have not responded to traditional care.
Explore Personalized Treatment with Expert Support
Managing mesothelioma treatment requires experience, compassion, and access to comprehensive care. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the Mesothelioma Asbestos Help Center is here to connect you with knowledgeable professionals and help you explore your best treatment options. Contact us today!