Though no cure exists at this point for pleural mesothelioma, researchers and organizations like the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation are diligently working to improve treatment options.
Currently available treatment options for pleural mesothelioma can improve a person’s quality and length of life.
Pleural Mesothelioma Treatments
Forming in the pleura, the protective lining surrounding the lungs, pleura mesothelioma is often not diagnosed until it has progressed. The treatment options for pleural mesothelioma include:
- Pleural Mesothelioma Surgery – Forming in the pleura, which is the protective lining surrounding the lungs, pleura mesothelioma is shielded by the rib cage, meaning that reaching it through surgery can require invasively cutting through bone. Two of the more common ways of treating pleural mesothelioma through surgery include ‘extra pleural pneumonectomy’(EPP) and ‘pleurectomy.’ This surgery is not a cure for pleural mesothelioma surgery.
- Pleural Mesothelioma Chemotherapy Treatment – Chemotherapy used in the treatment of pleural mesothelioma is not curative. That is not to say that chemotherapy is not without benefit to a mesothelioma patient. Studies suggest that chemotherapy treatments can result in the reduction of tumors and extend life. Chemotherapy has also been shown to palliate symptoms, including reducing shortness of breath, reduction of ascites or effusions, reduction of pain and improvement has been noted in quality of life studies.
- Pleural Mesothelioma Radiation Treatment – Radiation in the treatment of pleural mesothelioma has proved to be useful as an adjuvant to EPP, with extended survivals reported in large tertiary centers. Take note that the types of radiation that should be used are currently under investigation.
- Pleural Mesothelioma Immunotherapy Treatment – Immunotherapy has been used in mesothelioma in recent years alone or in combination with other treatment methods, mostly in an experimental setting through clinical trials. In October of 2020, the FDA approved the combination immunotherapy treatment of two agents: nivolumab and ipilimumab, as first-line treatment for mesothelioma. There are a number of immunotherapy treatments currently available through clinical trials. Read more here.
- Tumor Treating Fields – In May of 2019, a device Optune Lua, formerly known as NovoTTF-100L, was approved under Humanitarian Device Exemption (HDE) to be used in combination with chemotherapy. Read more about it here. Contact us at (703) 879-3820 or [email protected] with any questions.
- Clinical Trials – Other treatment options may be available to you through clinical trials. Read more here.
Are you searching for specific answers to questions on mesothelioma treatment, including details on side effects and risks? The Mesothelioma Foundation is here to offer support, guidance and help. Talk to a mesothelioma expert for the latest information on treatments and clinical trials.
