Veterans Assistance & Asbestos Exposure

Veterans Assistance & Asbestos Exposure, Those who have served this nation in the military services bear a particular burden when it comes to asbestos exposure due to its heavy use by all branches of the military. Throughout much of the last century, the services used asbestos in many different ways and many soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen have been exposed to asbestos. Assistance for Veterans with cases of asbestos exposure is available all over the country. Veterans are allowed to apply for Veteran Administration (VA) benefits for asbestos-related illnesses and Mesothelioma cancer.


InsulationMany military veterans were exposed to asbestos during peacetime and while prosecuting many of the nation’s war efforts. Veterans were exposed in a variety of forms of the deadly substance used in
Cements
Ceiling tiles
Vehicle parts
The Naval Service Asbestos Exposure
Many of the nation’s naval vessels were made with a fair amount of asbestos, because of asbestos unique properties it was perfect for the nautical ships that were prone to fires during wartime.
Veterans and Mesothelioma Cancer

The effects of asbestos exposure may not make themselves apparent for 20 to 40 years. A large number of products were used by the naval service and each branch of the military had asbestos use. Veterans came across a large list of materials that allowed them to inhale and ingest asbestos fibers. About 1/3 of all those diagnosed with malignant Mesothelioma are veterans.

Assistance for Veterans Exposed to Asbestos
The Veterans Administration of the United States has many cancer centers that assist veterans that have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma cancer and other diseases related to Asbestos exposure. If you are a military veteran who has been exposed to asbestos, you should inform the doctor so that you can be screened for Mesothelioma cancer.

VA Cancer Treatment Centers
The VA runs centers that assist veteran with cancer treatments in every state. The centers can handle the needs Mesothelioma sufferers. Military Vets that are in need of help can get in touch with a Veteran Administration center closer to them to find out more about Mesothelioma cancer treatment programs and treatments for other asbestos related illnesses.

Mesothelioma Veteran Assistance, Compensation, and Treatment
If you are a veteran that has contracted an asbestos related illness, you can get help, compensation, and treatment. This is why it is vital that veterans call a Mesothelioma law firm to get all the best information.

Phoenix dui lawyers-Need Positive Thinking Trained

Writer: Tim AndrieWongso.com

Former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, had words of wisdom are timeless: A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity, an Optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity, an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. No different from the objects facing the pessimistic and optimistic. There is only a different perspective. The optimist looked at him with positive thoughts, while the pessimistic with negative thoughts.

Having positive thinking had to be socialized and trained constantly so that someday will grow into the character. But how to cultivate this habit? The following tips can be useful.Verbal affirmations every dayWhen we encounter a problem or opportunity, there are two possibilities that could be done. We felt able to cope or do, but on the other hand would doubt our ability. Technically, we are in fact very capable of doing it but we pulled uncertainty in a static manner so that we can not do anything.According to some experts, the best way to overcome this problem is to do affirmations, that is to say positive words to us. In the morning after waking up, say to ourselves that we can do anything we want. Such "You can!" or, "You can do it!" The louder our words more able to influence our subconscious.

Do it every day for about 10 minutes.Use positive wordsUsing positive words have a good influence. An expert named Dr. Susan Jeffers says, "No matter whether we believe in the words or not, but those words affect our subconscious." If we are accustomed to using negative words, the results of which we can negatiflah. So even if we always use positive words positive results that we will be.Attach a picture or writingAttaching the visualization of what we want will have a positive impact in the achievement. What we want to reach, attach pictures or words. Look at every opportunity, imagine what we will feel when can reach it. This will encourage positive thoughts.Fill around us with positive imagesThis could be a positive image of the words of motivational posters, inspirational images, even writing affirmations to convince themselves in a small card or paper paste which is easily seen.Because it gave the room decoration with posters or pictures that can arouse inspiration or pep up our confidence. One time when we're stressed, look, or read so that we will refocus on the desire we are pursuing.Often say "Thank You"Gratitude will affect our minds. Saying "Thank You" will publish a positive mind. But how many times a day we say "Thank You"? We may even forget to say thank you when, for example, helped people in the fall. Yet more often grateful, the more positive thoughts awakened.Listen to motivational descriptionListening to motivational exposure will build positive thoughts. We can hear the show on the radio or adjust motivational motivational CDs while driving on the road. It would be a kind of "charging" for our mental.

Mesothelioma - Dare to Forgive Others

Authors: Andrie Wongso

Beginning in August 2011 there is interesting news from Iran. A beautiful woman who poured the acid damage to her face and her eyes blind to forgive the offender.The woman is Ameneh Bahrami, Iranian-born in 1978, which doused Majid Movahedi in 2004 because of rejected courtship. Movahedi was arrested while waiting for qisas punishment, ie punishment principled retaliation in kind, a kind of punishment "lives life to pay". In the case Bahrami, he may ask the court to blind the eyes of actors as they experienced.The court ruled the law qisas conducted on July 31, 2011 and broadcast live by television.


A few seconds before the acid is splashed in the eye Movahedi, a doctor who would pour liquid Bahrami was asked, "What would you do now?"Movahedi was crying uncontrollably as she knelt. Fear of blindness and eye shadow incomparable pain that made her beg for forgiveness. Everyone was tense watch. A signal from the process Bahrami qisas punishment would be carried out. However, Bahrami was saying the words beyond expectations. "I forgive him, I forgive him," said Bahrami. Then the eyes of the perpetrator had survived.What a noble attitude Bahrami, he courageously forgiving those who have blinded him throughout his life. "The best thing is to forgive when we are in a position of power," Bahrami said explaining his decision. But there Bahrami mother saying that we ought to refer to. He said, "Forgiveness is going to calm Bahrami and our family."Friends of the Extraordinary,As I discussed in a live talk show on network Radio Sonora on Monday morning, to review the story "Do not Save the Potato Rot ', forgiveness is not easy. But forgiveness can calm us. Conversely, revenge is not necessarily eliminate hatred.

Maybe it will grow a sense of guilt within us because of revenge after that we feel as bad as those who have made us suffer.Scientifically any excuse or forgive the other person has a positive value. The results showed that those who harbored grudges and nurture hatred, his life was not calm. Medically they have a high pulse (unhealthy), high blood pressure, and muscles tighten. If allowed to continue they could be having a heart attack. Instead, they are willing to forgive others, normal blood pressure, normal cardiac work, and his muscles relaxed. In short, a forgiving have better health records.The study showed that "forgive others" not only good for mental health, but also good for our physical health. Therefore, before Idul Fitri, which will fall a few days away, let's open the door of forgiveness. It would not hurt to forgive others, we even have the benefit of no measure

Mesothelioma Lawyers San Diego

Understand how to choose a lawyer for this disease, you should first understand the basics of the disease. In the simplest sense, mesothelioma is a cancer of the protective layers of the body cavities, known as the mesothelium.

These tissues have different names depending on the organs they protect. You have probably heard of the peritoneum–this is the covering around the stomach and intestines. Other organs and cavities have their own membranes as well.

Mesothelioma is a cancer of these tissues. They often do not just affect the tissues–they affect the organs they surround and can spread elsewhere. This cancer is most often contracted by exposure to asbestos, a highly dangerous mineral often found in floors, ceilings, and some products.

Employers and landlords are supposed to protect you from asbestos, but often this does not happen. If you have mesothelioma you have probably been exposed to asbestos. If so, you should contact mesotheloma attorneys in your area to see if you have a case against the party responsible for your exposure.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, your oncologist may be your best source of names for attorney contacts. She will likely have already worked with them on cases and can tell you not only who specializes in your type of cancer but who is best and who is within a short distance from your home or work. If she does not have the right kind of specialist, there are other ways to find the right professional for your case.

You can check with other doctors who deal specifically deal with mesothelioma if your doctor is more of a general oncologist. These doctors may have worked more closely with mesothelioma lawyers in your area of southern California. You can also call local hospitals, various cancer support groups–area law schools are also excellent for references. Also check your union or professional group if you were exposed on the job.

Regardless of where you find your contacts, interview the lawyer, check on his or her background, and get references if you can. If you are ill, the last thing you need is more trouble.

Mesothelioma Care Management

Managing Your Care

Mesothelioma is a major challenge and keeping up with activities involving your treatment and doctor visits can be overwhelming. The patient, the family, and close friends are faced with new and unfamiliar experiences. A methodological approach to your care can often make life easier for everyone.


The concept of a personal medical file is becoming more popular, and these files can be especially useful for cancer patients who see multiple doctors and receive treatment at more than one location. The personal medical file helps ensure that you always have access to critical data (even when your doctor’s office is closed) and there is a backup of the most important documents. When you visit a new health care provider, you will have comprehensive access to the information they need. More on personal medical files.
Keeping track of the medications you are taking can be a hassle, especially given the amount of prescriptions the typical mesothelioma patient takes. You need to know what medicines you are taking, which doctor prescribed them, what the dosage is and how many pills a day you take. A formal file and notebook organizer can help here. More tips on managing your medications.

Keeping track of your expenses is important. Everyone has different financial resources, insurance coverage, and Medicare eligibility. Many mesothelioma patients can get compensation from the asbestos industry, which can help with medical costs. Whatever the source of your funding, you need to keep track of all bills from hospitals and clinics, bills from drugs stores, and insurance claims and payments. Tips on managing your expenses.

Because mesothelioma is a rare cancer, your doctor may not have much experience dealing with it. There is nothing wrong with getting a second opinion from another physician. Here are some ideas on second opinions. You may wish to look at our list of mesothelioma specialists. Contact us if you are interested in reaching these doctors. Note that the type of doctor that specializes in cancer treatment is called oncologists. However, because mesothelioma is so rare, even most oncologists have seen a limited number of cases. Also you may wish to look into the community clinical oncology program, sponsored by the federal government, which offer access to clinical trials to patients at cancer centers around the country.

The American Society of Clinical Oncology has a webpage on managing the cost of cancer care. That organization recently put out a report on the cost of cancer treatment.


Source
http://www.mesotheliomaweb.org/mesothelioma/care-management/

Mesothelioma Chemotherapy

Mesothelioma Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the use of drugs for treating cancer. The drugs can be swallowed in pill form or they can be injected by a needle into a vein or muscle. Chemotherapy is systemic therapy. This means that the drug enters the bloodstream and circulates throughout the body (through the whole system) to reach and destroy the cancer cells.

In treating mesothelioma, these drugs may also be given intrapleurally (directly into the chest cavity), or intraperitoneally (into the abdominal cavity). Depending on the type and stage of mesothelioma, chemotherapy may be given as the primary (main) treatment or as an adjuvant (addition) to surgery.

Several anticancer drugs have been used to treat mesothelioma. The drug most effective when given alone is doxorubicin (Adriamycin). Other drugs that may be given alone include cisplatin and methotrexate. These anticancer drugs are often given in combination to try to increase their effectiveness. Combinations of drugs used in the treatment of mesothelioma include methotrexate and vincristine. Cisplatin, Alimta®, Gemcitabine (Gemzar), Navelbine (Vinorelbine), Carboplatin and Onconase (Ranpirnase) are also effective chemotherapy drugs. Other drugs such as paclitaxel and irinotecan are currently being studied to determine their effectiveness in treating mesothelioma.

Chemotherapy drugs kill cancer cells but also damage some normal cells. Therefore, careful attention must be given to avoiding or minimizing side effects, which depend on the specific drugs, the amount taken, and the length of treatment. Temporary side effects might include nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, loss of hair, and mouth sores. Because chemotherapy can damage the blood-producing cells of the bone marrow, patients may have low blood cell counts. This can result in an increased risk of infection (due to a shortage of white blood cells), bleeding or bruising after minor cuts or injuries (due to a shortage of blood platelets), and fatigue or shortness of breath (due to low red blood cell counts).

Most side effects disappear once treatment is stopped. There are remedies for many of the temporary side effects of chemotherapy. For example, antiemetic drugs can be given to prevent or reduce nausea and vomiting. If you experience any side effects, be sure to talk with your doctor.

Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy is a complementary therapy that can help asbestos cancer patients recover from surgery or the side effects of mesothelioma chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Source
American Cancer Society - Detailed Guide: Malignant Mesothelioma - Chemotherapy
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_4X_Chemotherapy_29.asp?rnav=cri

Mesotheolima Radiation

Mesothelioma Radiation

Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells. External beam radiation therapy uses radiation delivered from outside the body that is focused on the cancer. This type of radiation therapy is often used to treat mesothelioma. These treatments are much like getting a diagnostic x-ray except for a longer time. Brachytherapy involves radioactive material being placed directly into the chest or the abdomen at the site of the mesothelioma.

Radiation therapy is sometimes used as the main treatment of mesothelioma cancer in some patients, especially those whose general health is too poor to undergo surgery. Adjuvant radiation therapy can be used in addition to surgery to kill small deposits of cancer that cannot be seen and removed during surgery. Palliative radiation therapy can also be used to ease symptoms of mesothelioma such as shortness of breath, pain, bleeding, and difficulty swallowing.

Side effects of radiation therapy may include fatigue and mild skin changes that resemble a sunburn. Often these side effects are temporary. Radiation may also make the side effects of chemotherapy worse. Chest radiation therapy may cause lung damage and lead to difficulty breathing and shortness of breath. Abdominal radiation therapy may cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. If you are having any of these side effects of radiation therapy, talk with your doctor since there are ways to help control these symptoms.

 

Source

American Cancer Society - Detailed Guide: Malignant Mesothelioma - Radiation Therapy
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_4X_Radiation_Therapy_29.asp?rnav=cri

Mesotheolima Surgery

Mesothelioma Surgery

Depending on the stage of a mesothelioma, surgery may be used to remove the cancer and some of the surrounding tissue. Often, however, an operation is not appropriate and the patient may have only minimally invasive procedures to relieve symptoms. A thoracentesis, where fluid in the chest is removed by placing a needle into the chest cavity, may be done to make a patient more comfortable. Sometimes talc or an antibiotic may be injected into the chest cavity to try to prevent the fluid from returning. These techniques are successful in controlling the fluid, at least temporarily, in as many as 90% of patients. Because pleural fluid can compress the lung and cause shortness of breath, these procedures can help patients breathe more easily, however, they do not cure the cancer. In the case of peritoneal mesothelioma, a needle may be inserted into the abdomen to drain the fluid. Similarly, a needle inserted into the pericardium (sac around the heart) can drain the fluid caused by pericardial mesothelioma and help relieve circulatory problems. However, draining this fluid may result in complications. Sometimes the cancer cells spread along the needle path, and a tumor nodule may form under the skin of that area.

Surgery for mesothelioma may be performed for one of two reasons: for palliation (to relieve pain and discomfort caused by the tumor), or to cure. Palliative surgery is typically done in cases where the tumor has already spread beyond the mesothelium and is difficult to completely remove, or in cases where the patient is too ill to tolerate a more extensive operation. Curative surgery is offered when the patient is in otherwise good health and the tumor is thought to be localized and can be completely removed. Unfortunately, microscopic spread of cancer cells into the chest wall and diaphragm are common even when such spread cannot be detected by routine tests. Therefore, given the extent of these operations and their very limited success, the exact role of surgery in treating mesothelioma is often debated.

There are two types of operations that may be offered to patients with pleural mesothelioma: pleurectomy/decortication and extrapleural pneumonectomy. Pleurectomy/decortication is usually a palliative (relieves symptoms without curing the cancer) operation in cases where the entire tumor cannot be removed. It involves removal of the pleura, where the majority of the tumor is located. It is effective in controlling effusions (fluid accumulation) and decreasing the pain caused by the cancer.

Extrapleural pneumonectomy is a far more extensive operation and most often used in cases of localized mesothelioma. The operation is technically difficult and performed only by surgeons in large specialized medical centers. It involves removing the pleura, diaphragm, pericardium, and the whole lung on the side of the tumor. The patient must be in overall good health with no other serious illnesses in order to tolerate the large operation. This operation is intended to remove all or most of the cancer and some surrounding tissues as well.

Surgical treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma is often performed either to help relieve symptoms or to attempt to remove the tumor from the wall of the abdomen and other digestive organs. As with pleural mesothelioma, these tumors are often too extensive to remove completely. Similar operations can be performed to remove a mesothelioma from the pericardium (the sac around the heart).

Source:

American Cancer Society - Detailed Guide: Malignant Mesothelioma Surgery
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_4X_Surgery_29.asp?rnav=cri

Mesothelioma Cancer

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer affecting the membrane lining of the lungs and abdomen.

Malignant mesothelioma is the most serious of all asbestos-related diseases. Although uncommon, mesothelioma cancer is no longer considered rare. The primary cause and risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos.

Listen to an audio summary on Mesothelioma Cancer.

      

Making a correct mesothelioma diagnosis is particularly difficult for doctors because the disease often presents with symptoms that mimic other common ailments. There is no known cure for mesothelioma, but treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy have helped to improve the typical mesothelioma prognosis.

Pleural mesothelioma (affecting the lung’s protective lining in the chest cavity) represents about three quarters of all mesothelioma incidence. Peritoneal mesothelioma which affects the abdominal cavity and pericardial mesothelioma, which affects the cardiac cavity, comprise the remainder. Testicular mesothelioma is extremely rare and is typically presents with metastases of the peritoneal variety. There are three recognized mesothelioma cell-types. Between 50 and 70% of all mesotheliomas are of the epithelial variety. While prognosis is generally poor, it is considered less aggressive than sarcomatoid mesothelioma and biphasic mesothelioma, which comprise the remainder of cell type diagnoses.

encompassing the chest, abdomen, and heart are surround by a membrane of cells known as the mesothelium. Mesothelial cells assist in general organ functions. The mesothelium is particularly important to organs that are commonly in motion, such as expansion or contraction of the lungs, stomach, or heart. Lubrication from the mesothelial cells allows free range of motion within the body. The mesothelium of the chest, abdomen, and cardiac cavity are called the pleura, the peritoneum, and the pericardium, respectively. Each of these groupings of mesothelial cells are extremely critical to the functions of the body structures which they encompass.

Malignancies (cancerous tumors) occurring within the mesothelial membranes are known as malignant mesothelioma, or simply mesothelioma. Benign tumors of the mesothelium are known to occur, but are much rarer than the more common malignant cancer.

While tumors of the mesothelium were first recognized in the late 18th century, it was not until the middle of the 20th century that this particular cancer was studied and examined with more detail. It was at this time where suspicions of the cancer’s causal relationship with asbestos exposure became more substantiated. A joint research venture through the Department of Thoracic Surgery at the University of the Witswater and/Johannesburg General Hospital in South Africa provided the most compelling evidence of the nexus between asbestos exposure and the development of pleural mesothelioma.

Incidence of mesothelioma is still quite rare, with only 2,500-3000 diagnoses in the United States each year. There was a spike in reported diagnoses between 1970 and 1984, which has been attributed to the latency period between diagnosis and the height of industrial exposures, which occurred roughly 40-60 years prior to this time. Exposure was common in nearly all industries but was particularly common in the WWII-era military industrial cycle, including Navy Shipyards.

Although this cancer is much more common in men over the age of 60 (largely attributed to the industrial exposures within male-dominated industries), mesothelioma in women and children has been described as well. Mesothelioma causes for diagnosis in women and children are mainly attributed to secondary exposure to asbestos, as it was not uncommon for men to bring asbestos back into the home on their body or clothing if proper cleaning facilities were not available on site.

Mesothelioma is diagnosed through a comprehensive combination of biopsy and imaging scans.

Mesothelioma can be a difficult malignancy to diagnose because the symptoms and pathology of the disease closely resemble other respiratory conditions. For this reason, misdiagnosis is not uncommon in mesothelioma patients. Symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain, chronic cough, effusions of the chest and abdomen, and the presence of blood in lung fluid.

Diagnostic surgeries, including a biopsy, will typically be required to determine the type of malignant cells that are present in the body. Typically a body imaging scan, including a magnetic resonance image (MRI) or computer topography (CT scan) will be required to determine the extent and location of the disease.

Mesothelioma patients are generally referred by their personal physicians to one of the many renowned mesothelioma doctors in the United States. These oncologists are well versed in the disease behavior and pathology and are the most familiar with cutting-edge mesothelioma treatment options. Dr. David Sugarbaker of the Brigham and Women's Hospital, an extension of Harvard University and the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, MA, is at the forefront of mesothelioma treatment through the International Mesothelioma Program.

While mesothelioma is typically advanced at diagnosis, treatment options are available.

Mesothelioma, while certainly an aggressive disease, is a manageable malignancy. While there is no cure for the cancer, mesothelioma treatment options including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are available for many patients. While a combination of Alimta® and Cisplatin is currently the only FDA approved chemotherapy regimen, several clinical trials are currently in progress utilizing other drugs including Gemcitabine and Onconase, with many showing dramatically improved results in certain cancer patients.

Radiation therapy is also utilized, but typically in conjunction with other treatment methods like surgery and chemotherapy. Surgical resection of mesothelioma is possible in early-stage-diagnosed patients. Aggressive surgeries such as extrapleural pneumonectomy can extend survival rates far beyond previously-thought timeframes. Diagnostic and palliative surgeries such as pleurocentesis and pleurodesis are also common in patients of malignant mesothelioma cancer.

Alternative therapies have also been used effectively by many mesothelioma patients to assist in managing symptoms of the disease and conventional treatments. These treatments are mainly preferential but can be extremely valuable to many patients.

Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos.

Mesothelioma is only caused by exposure to asbestos, though cases have been documented in children or other individuals with no asbestos history. Asbestos is a microscopic and naturally-occurring mineral that lodges in the pleural lining of the lungs and the peritoneal lining of the abdominal cavity. In most cases, several years will pass (up to 60) before mesothelioma develops in those who had been exposed to asbestos.

In many cases, those individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma that have been known to be exposed to asbestos may be eligible for financial compensation from asbestos manufacturers for their illness. Those who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and were exposed to asbestos should fill out the brief form on this page. We'll rush you a complimentary mesothelioma and asbestos exposure information kit detailing new mesothelioma treatments, active clinical trials, top doctors, as well as how to obtain compensation for asbestos-related health conditions like mesothelioma.

Topics in this Section

Mesothelioma Risk Factors

Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor for mesothelioma. Others include Radiation, Zeolite and SV40. Read more in this section.

Mesothelioma Causes

The primary cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Learn more about direct occupational exposure as well as second hand exposure.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma symptoms often mimic those of common respiratory ailments. Learn more about the signs and symptoms to be aware of.

Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Read about the diagnostic tests that doctors use to determine whether or not a patient has mesothelioma including imaging scans and biopsies.

Mesothelioma Types

Pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma and pericardial mesothelioma are the most common types of mesothelioma. Learn more.

Mesothelioma Stages

Learn about the different staging systems that medical experts use find out how far mesothelioma cancer has spread.

Mesothelioma Prognosis

Learn about the various factors that determine what the prognosis is for individuals that have been diagnosed with mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Information

This section provides a wealth of information about mesothelioma including the disease itself, latency period, survival rates, prevention and more.

Mesothelioma Pictures

This section provides visual depictions of the types of mesothelioma that patients are most often diagnosed with, available treatment options, and the dangers associated with asbestos exposure.

Mesothelioma Charities

These organizations support the mesothelioma community through a variety of programs that serve to raise awareness, fund ongoing research and assist asbestos disease victims in their fight against cancer.

Sources:

National Cancer Institute – Malignant Mesothelioma

(http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/malignantmesothelioma)

Wagner, J.C., Sleggs, C.A., and Marchand, Paul. “Diffuse Pleural Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure in the North Western Cape Province.” Department of Thoracic Surgery: University of The Witswatersrand. Johannesburg, South Africa. 1960.

Grondin, Sean C., Sugarbaker, David J. “Pleuropneumonectomy in the Treatment of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma” Chest December 1999 116:suppl 3 450S-454S;

Rusch, Valerie W. “Indications for pneumoctomy. Extrapleural pneumonectomy”

Roggli VL, Sharma A, Butnor KJ, Sporn T, Vollmer RT (2002). "Malignant mesothelioma and occupational exposure to asbestos: a clinicopathological correlation of 1445 cases". Ultrastruct Pathol 26(2): 55–65.

Brigham and Women’s Hospital – International Mesothelioma Program

(http://www.brighamandwomens.org/Departments_and_Services/surgery/services/thoracicsurgery/services/mesothelioma/default.aspx)

Mesothelioma Treatment

If there’s one thing we know about mesothelioma treatment, it’s this: we’re still being challenged to arrive at efficacy.

Despite years of research since the disease was first identified, it’s still difficult to identify the best approach to treating the disease, says David Rice, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon and nationally known mesothelioma expert who practices at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX.

The very rareness of the cancer—only about 3,000 people a year are diagnosed in the United States—makes it difficult to run the kind of research studies needed to compare treatments and determine the ideal therapy at each stage of the disease. “There isn’t a lot of evidence-based science in this disease,” Dr. Rice admits. So when his patients ask him what the best treatment is for the disease, he tells them what we tell you in this section, adding that “we don’t have a reliable cure for this disease.”

Thus, a major goal of treatment is to reduce pain and suffering and prolong a patient’s life as long as possible while providing them with the highest quality of life possible.

Choosing the right mesothelioma doctor is an important first step in planning for treatment.

There are a number of mesothelioma experts, like Dr. Rice, practicing in specialized clinics throughout the country. Each of these cancer specialists has an acute knowledge of the behavior and pathology of malignant mesothelioma and its treatment. It is likely that if you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, you will be referred by your personal physician to a larger scale comprehensive cancer center.

The most important consideration in mesothelioma treatment is the cancer stage and type, said Dr. Rice. Treatment decisions also depend on whether the cancer is localized to the chest or has spread to the chest wall, diaphragm, or lymph nodes, your age and overall health, and the center where you’re being treated. Learn more about finding a doctor here.

Conventional treatments for mesothelioma involve surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

As with most solid tumors, doctors turn to surgery, radiation and chemotherapy to manage mesothelioma. When exploring the various treatment options available with your doctor it is important to be informed about the risk and benefits of each one before making a final decision.

Listen to an audio summary on Mesothelioma Treatment.

Surgery

Only about 1 in 5 patients with metastatic pleural mesothelioma undergo surgery. There are two main surgeries: pleurectomy/decortication, in which the surgeon tries to remove as much of the tumor from around the lung as possible, and the more radical extrapleural pneumonectomy, in which the lung itself is removed.

There is a lot of debate as to which is “best,” said Dr. Rice, although studies find that most long-term survivors have had surgery. He personally believes that pneumonectomy is best for tumor control if followed with radiation. Studies find it prevents tumor recurrence in the chest in 80 to 85 percent of patients who have the surgery.

However, Dr. Rice noted, it is a long, intensive operation with a 55 percent complication rate and a 3 percent risk of death, higher in some institutions. “So you only want to perform that surgery if the patient has a reasonably good prognosis,” said Dr. Rice. Translation: it doesn’t appear that the cancer has spread outside the chest.

Patients best suited for pneumonectomy are younger, with the epithelial form of the disease, no obvious lymph gland involvement, and are otherwise healthy enough to withstand the rigor of the procedure. Dr. Rice actually waits until he has the patient’s chest open in the operating room and biopsies the lymph nodes before deciding which procedure to perform.

Pleurectomy/decortication has a higher failure rate, with the tumor recurring in the chest cavity 50 to 80 percent of the time. However, that rate may change with improved radiotherapy techniques, Dr. Rice said. The reason for the high recurrence is that it’s impossible to completely remove the tumor without removing the lung.

However, he noted, there is no difference in survival rates between the two surgeries. Part of the reason is that the cancer has often spread to other parts of the body by the time it is diagnosed even if it appears to be confined to the chest.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy, also known as systemic therapy, uses oral or infusion-based medications to kill cancer cells throughout your body. Chemotherapy is used both before and after surgery, as well as in people who can’t handle surgery. It is also used in the palliative setting to reduce pain and improve quality of life.

The most commonly used chemotherapy drugs for mesothelioma are cisplatin combined with pemetrexed (Alimta) or raltitrexed (Tomudex). Other combinations include gemcitabine, carboplatin or oxaliplatin.

If you can’t manage combination therapy, your doctor may start on just one drug. Sometimes, your doctor may infuse the medication directly into your chest cavity, a procedure called pleural chemotherapy, or, abdomen, called intraperitoneal chemotherapy. You may also get a second course of chemotherapy, called “second-line” chemotherapy, with pemetrexed or other drugs, raltitrexed plus oxaliplatin, or the triple drug combination of irinotecan, cisplatin and mitomycin.

Some centers are beginning to provide intraperitoneal chemotherapy before surgery, followed by chemotherapy shortly after surgery. You can learn more about this approach here. There is also work underway to personalize chemotherapy based on the genetic characteristics of your tumor.

Radiation

Radiation can be an important part of mesothelioma treatment. The problem is that because the cancer is near the heart and lungs, it’s challenging to provide the kind of high-dose, intensive therapy needed to shrink the tumor. However, a newer option, intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), which can more accurately target cancer cells and avoid healthy tissue, may provide better results when performed by experienced clinicians.

Investigational therapies are being explored through clinical and surgical trials at many of the nation’s top cancer centers.

There are more than 50 studies on new therapies for mesothelioma in the U.S. that are looking for volunteers. Researchers are investigating new targeted drugs and chemotherapies, as well as new protocols for giving the medications; immunotherapy, which harnesses the power of the immune system to fight the disease; phototherapy, in which you are injected with a drug that bonds to cancer cells and is activated by high-intensity light; genetic therapies; and novel radiotherapy techniques like tomotherapy to treat the disease. Learn more about participating in a clinical trial here.

At some point, the management of the disease will shift from trying to cure the disease to trying to keep the patient as comfortable as possible for as long as possible.

This is the palliative care stage, when many people enter a hospice program. The primary goal at this stage is maximizing patient comfort. Medication to help with pain, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms that may be experienced is a mainstay. So is emotional and spiritual support for you and your family.

Alternative therapies for mesothelioma can be used to ease side effects of traditional cancer treatment.

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) includes such therapies as massage, acupuncture, and meditation. They can be a powerful part of your overall management plan, helping you better manage the stress and anxiety of the disease and conventional treatments.

Topics in this Section

Conventional Therapies

Conventional therapies for mesothelioma include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.

Experimental Therapies

Several forms of mesothelioma treatment such gene therapy, immunotherapy, photodynamic therapy and multimodality therapy are still in their preliminary stages.

Alternative Treatments

These untraditional treatment approaches can complement conventional therapies and allow the patient to be more at peace and comfortable during this difficult time.

Treatment by Stage

This section lists typical treatment strategies based on the stage of the mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Doctors

Medical doctors who specialize in aggressively treating mesothelioma cancer state by state.

Mesothelioma Experts

Medical doctors with a longstanding expertise in treating malignant mesothelioma.

Clinical Trials

Information about current studies of promising new or experimental mesothelioma treatments.

Mesothelioma Clinics

Top Cancer Centers for mesothelioma treatment have been listed alphabetically by state for your convenience.

Ask Your Doctor

We have listed some questions that you might want to ask your doctor in this section.

Treatment Side Effects

While undergoing treatment for mesothelioma, you should be prepared for the following treatment side effects.

Caregiver Resources

Resources for family members and loved ones responsible for caring for mesothelioma patients.

Mesothelioma Research

Selected abstracts relating to malignant mesothelioma from PubMed, the National Library of Medicine's search service.

Mesothelioma Treatment Alerts

Articles regarding the most recent advances in mesothelioma treatment that are helping to improve longevity and quality of life in patients.

Sources:

Campbell NP, Kindler HL. Update on malignant pleural mesothelioma. Semin Respir Crit Care Med. 2011;32(1):102-110.

Sugarbaker, David, Zellos, Lambros S. Multimodality treatment of diffuse malignant pleural mesothelioma. Seminars in Onology. 2002; 29 (1): 41-50.

Chua TC, Yan TD, Morris DL. Surgical biology for the clinician: peritoneal mesothelioma: current understanding and management. Can J Surg. 2009;52(1):59-64.

Dhalluin X, Scherpereel A. Treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma: current status and future directions. Monaldi Arch Chest Dis. 2010;73(2):79-85.

Friedberg JS. Photodynamic therapy as an innovative treatment for malignant pleural mesothelioma. Semin Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2009;21(2):177-87.

Garland LL. Chemotherapy for Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma. Current treatment options in oncology. 2011. epub

Stevens LM, Lynm C, Glass RM. JAMA patient page. Palliative care. JAMA. 2006;296(11):1428.

Rice, David M.D. Telephone Interview. April 29, 2011.

About Mesothelioma

What is Mesothelioma? What is the difference between pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma?

Malignant mesothelioma is a disease in which a cancerous tumor grows on the mesothelium – the sac lining the internal body cavities. The specific type of mesothelioma is named for the tissue where the cancer started. Pleural mesothelioma starts in the chest, in the pleura that surrounds the lungs (outer lining of the lungs and internal chest wall). It makes up about 70% of mesothelioma cases. Peritoneal mesothelioma starts in the lining of the abdominal cavity.

Although sometimes referred to as “asbestos lung cancer”, mesothelioma is not the same as lung cancer. Lung cancers occur inside the lung itself; mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the lung. Mesothelioma is rare, striking fewer than 3000 Americans per year.

What happens inside the body?

The cancerous cells clump together in a malignant tumor. As it grows, the tumor pushes against and into other organs and healthy tissue, causing symptoms. Because the mesothelium is a flat thin lining, the mesothelioma tumor often takes a diffuse shape.

In its advanced stage the cancer metastasizes through the lymph system and spreads to other parts of the body. It is still referred to as mesothelioma because it started in the mesothelium.

What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

Our mesothelioma symptoms page goes into detail about the signs of this cancer. It is important to seek professional medical advice when trying to diagnose for mesothelioma because the symptoms can be confused with symptoms of other diseases.
Major symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:

• Shortness of breath caused by expanding pleural effusion


• Persistent dry cough


• Chest pain

Major symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include:

• Ascites (fluid in the abdomen)


• Swelling or lumps in the abdomen


• Abdominal pain

Some patients experience few of the visible symptoms. Formal diagnostic procedures are needed to determine if the cancer is present.

How do you get malignant mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos, once regarded as a miracle mineral, was popular due its lightweight but tough characteristics as well as for its heat-resistant properties. This naturally occurring mineral was used in many commercial and consumer products, from construction materials such as cement, roofing shingles and insulation, to consumer and industrial applications such as hair dryers, automobile brake pads and pipe insulation.

Most people with malignant mesothelioma worked on jobs where they breathed asbestos. Others were exposed to asbestos in a household environment, often without knowing it.

How much exposure does it take to get the disease? What is the latency period?
Very little exposure can result in mesothelioma. Sometimes people who worked with asbestos for as little as one or two months get mesothelioma. The “latency period” refers to the time between asbestos exposure and diagnosis of the disease. For mesothelioma, the latency period can be decades long, and people exposed in the 1940s, 50s, 60s, and 70s are now being diagnosed.

How do doctors treat malignant mesothelioma?
Each patient has an individualized treatment plan which takes into account the type and stage of the cancer as well as the patient’s overall health. Traditional mesothelioma treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or a combination of these. Contact us at 1-877-367-6376 if you want to talk about reviewing treatment options.

Is there any promising research or are there promising new drugs for mesothelioma?
Scientists and doctors are conducting research at cancer centers all over the United States. Researchers are continually developing new and more effective drugs as well as new surgical and radiotherapy treatment techniques. In the past few years, there have been several major advances in the management of mesothelioma, including more accurate staging, improvements in surgical techniques and postoperative care, new chemotherapy regimens, and new radiotherapy techniques such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy. Some of this research is being conducted through clinical trials on mesothelioma patients, for which you may be eligible.  Please call us if you need additional information on current trials.

What should I do if I think I’ve been exposed to asbestos but don’t have mesothelioma?
You probably will not get this rare disease, but you should remain vigilant and get regular check-ups. Let your doctor know about your asbestos exposure.

I was exposed to asbestos when I was in the military. Could that be how I got mesothelioma?

The armed forces used asbestos extensively in the 20th Century. Mesothelioma has a long latency period and often does not appear until decades after the patient came into contact with asbestos. Veterans from all branches of the service are now developing malignant mesothelioma. We have worked with veterans from all over the country. We can help you find VA resources and medical assistance. Our veterans section goes into more detail or feel free to call us at 1-877-367-6376.

Where can I find information on living with mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma Aid is a good website for resource for families dealing with mesothelioma. It includes advice and referrals to other resources for coping with cancer, care giving, financial challenges, and support groups.   Alternatively, contact us here at Mesothelioma Web for help finding resources for dealing with this disease and for getting treatment.

What other resources are available for people with malignant mesothelioma?
Should you need more information or have additional questions, please contact us and we can refer you to sources that can answer your specific question. We can be reached at 1-877-367-6376.

Sources of information on this page:
National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health
Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases – Malignant Mesothelioma
Pennsylvania Department of Health – Mesothelioma
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute – Asbestos-Related Lung Diseases
Moffitt Cancer Center – General Information about Malignant Mesothelioma

http://www.mesotheliomaweb.org/mesothelioma/