Mesothelioma Treatment

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Malignant mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos. The cancerous cells are in the lining around the lungs and the internal organs. Mesothelioma treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. These treatment options should be considered carefully since using one form of treatment may preclude the use of another option.

Surgery Options 

Curative surgery may be done to remove a cancerous mesothelioma tumor. Most surgery, however, is palliative and the objective is to remove fluid that builds up in the chest cavity. Removing the fluid by inserting a needle into the chest and drawing the fluid out can relieve symptoms such as shortness of breath allowing the patient to breathe easier.

Chemotherapy 

Chemotherapy for mesothelioma patients is not expected to be curative. The reasons for using chemotherapy as a treatment are to slow the growth of the cancer or stop it from spreading. To shrink a tumor before surgery, to destroy any other diseases after surgery and to relieve pain if the tumor is not expected to shrink in size. Some chemotherapy drugs can be taken by mouth or by injection. Chemotherapy drugs can also be placed directly into the chest or abdominal cavity to target the cancer more directly. The decision to use chemotherapy depends on the type of mesothelioma and how far the cancer has advanced. It is sometimes used in conjunction with surgery.

Radiation

External beam radiation is done from outside of the body and it targets cancerous cells with high intensity X-rays to destroy them. Radioactive materials are sometimes injected directly into the area of the body where the cancerous cells are located. This radiation treatment is called Brachytherapy. For patients who are not strong enough to withstand the rigors of surgery radiation may be their first option. Radiation may also be used to control the spread of the cancer when invasive procedures have been used such as chest tube drainage, thorasoscopy, or a needle biopsy.

Physical Therapy 

Physical therapy is often used to assist patients in reducing the side effects from radiation or chemotherapy. It can also help a patient heal after surgery for mesothelioma.

Alternative Medicine 

Many patients use alternative medicine as a treatment to Mesothelioma in order to manage their side effects and symptoms. Alternative medicine might include homeopathy, massage, acupuncture, and herbs. These treatments may not be effective for every patient but some patients benefit from their use as an addition to their medical treatment.

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