1. Surgical Excision
Doctors perform various surgical procedures to treat mesothelioma. A wide local excision performed to excise the cancer as well as the surrounding tissue. A more complex surgical procedure, known as a pleurectomy, involves removal of the exterior tissue that envelops the lungs and ribs. Occasionally, doctors opt to remove the tissue around the abdominal cavity in a procedure referred to as a peritonectomy. If necessary, surgery involves removal of the lung and some of the tissue that lines the diaphragm, chest and sac around the heart. Frequently, chemotherapy or radiation therapy follows surgery.
2. Attacking Mesothelioma With Radiation Therapy
Both internal and external radiations are traditional therapies techniques used to treat mesothelioma. The decision regarding the type of radiation therapy to use depends on the location and severity of mesothelioma. While radiation therapy may minimize symptoms associated with mesothelioma, there are drawbacks. Radiation therapy doesn't just attack the bad cancer cells. It also attacks good cells, which causes some patients to experience uncomfortable side effects.
3. Beat Mesothelioma With Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a traditional method for treating mesothelioma. Doctors have choices to make regarding when to use chemotherapy. Three options exist, including chemotherapy prior to surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery (adjuvant) or in the absence of surgery. The only drug currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of mesothelioma is Alimta. The FDA has also approved a combination chemotherapy regimen consisting of Alimta and Cisplatin. Administration of chemotherapy is either regional or systemic. Regional chemotherapy targets the cancer directly using a port or catheter, while systemic chemotherapy enters the body through an IV, going directly into the bloodstream.
4. Find Hope In Clinical Trials
Patients should explore their options with respect to clinical trials prior to beginning a treatment plan. Clinical trials evaluate the efficacy of new mesothelioma treatments. One type of treatment currently undergoing testing is the use of immunotherapy, commonly referred to as biologic therapy. This type of therapy harnesses the ability of the body's immune system to recognize and subsequently attack cancer cells. Other new treatments include photodynamic therapy, anti-angiogenesis drugs, replacement gene therapy and knockout gene therapy. Consult with your doctor about your eligibility for available clinical trials.
5. Alleviate Mesothelioma Symptoms
Palliative care involves the management of symptoms associated with mesothelioma. The goal is to minimize the patient's discomfort and pain. While palliative therapy is not curative, it does make the patient's day-to-day functioning easier. Symptoms alleviated through palliative treatment include pain, exhaustion, dry mouth, difficulty breathing, lack of appetite, digestive trouble, skin irritation and emotional difficulties. Medical professionals recommend various palliative treatments, such as drainage of fluid from the chest, pain relieving medications, pleuroperitoneal shunt and pleurectomy.
