Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that occurs in the lining of tissues in the chest, abdomen and other parts of the body. Peritoneal mesothelioma, which occurs in the abdomen, is a very aggressive form of cancer and difficult to treat.
Staging
Treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma, the Mayo Clinic explains, depends in part on how advanced the cancer is. This can be determined via X-rays, MRIs and other imaging tests.
Surgery
If the cancer is in an area of the body, which can be surgically removed, surgery is an option. This procedure will attempt to remove the cancerous tissue as well as some of the surrounding healthy tissue, the American Cancer Society explains.
Radiation
Radiation treatments can also be used to treat peritoneal mesothelioma. This treatment uses high energy X-ray beams that damage the cancerous cells.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy, which involves the administration of chemicals which are toxic to the rapidly dividing mesothelioma cells, can also be used to treat peritoneal mesothelioma, Brigham and Women's Hospital notes.
Survival
Even with proper treatment, peritoneal mesothelioma is a form of cancer that spreads rapidly and often kills patients in one year or less, Brigham and Women's Hospital explains. As a result, many patients may only need palliative care.
