Chemotherapy is currently the only treatment method approved by the FDA. In 2004, the combination of Alimta/cisplatin became the standard of care in treating mesothelioma. Studies show that chemotherapy in treatment of pleural mesothelioma can reduce tumors in 40% of patients, thus extending survival. In addition, chemotherapy has important palliative effects, such as reduction of shortness of breath, fluid, and pain. Chemotherapy is typically administered alone or in combination to surgery. In some cases, patients initially considered inoperable, become surgical candidates following chemotherapy.
Some common questions about the use of chemotherapy in mesothelioma treatment include:
Systemic and Regional Chemotherapy Treatment
Chemotherapy is most often applied systemically, meaning that it uses the blood stream to travel through the entire body, regardless of where the cancer is located. This approach limits the amount of chemotherapy that can be applied.
An alternative to systemic application is a regional or localized application. When applying locally, the drug is administered directly to the affected area or organ. This allows for higher concentration of the drug/s to the affected area, while limiting systemic toxicity. There are two variations to this technique:
- Direct application – Chemicals are applied directly to the area
- Intra-cavitary application – A special tube is used to feed the chemicals directly into the pleural space.
Determining which approach to use depends on each individual case.
Regardless, experienced mesothelioma centers can best advise on the benefits vs. the risks of each options, and can minimize risks.
The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation is here to help the families and patients affected by mesothelioma. Contact our on-staff expert about your diagnosis.
