Mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive cancer, is caused by exposure to asbestos. Due to its aggressive nature, choosing the right treatment is necessary for improving the quality of life and chances of survival. While there is no definitive cure for this cancer yet, several treatment options can help manage its symptoms and slow its progression.
Whether you or your loved one has been diagnosed, understanding your options can help you make informed decisions. Read on to discover the best treatment options for this cancer, how they work, and the kind of outcomes they offer.
Surgery
Surgery is pretty effective for treating mesothelioma because it allows the removal of damaged tissue, tumors, and fluid buildup due to asbestos exposure. The aim of surgery is usually to extract as much cancer as possible to increase the victim’s chances of survival. This treatment may require removing part of the lungs to take out most of the tumor mass and reduce the symptoms. The types of mesothelioma surgery include:
- Extrapleural Pneumonectomy
- Cytoreductive Surgery with Heated Chemotherapy
- Pleurectomy and Decortication
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves using strong medicines to kill the mesothelioma cells. This is a solid option for patients who aren’t fit enough for surgery. No matter the stage of this illness, chemotherapy can be given.
Some healthcare professionals recommend chemotherapy before surgery. It may be administered through the body or targeted at the mesothelial lining. It is the most popular treatment for mesothelioma.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy utilizes powerful, external-beam radiation to destroy mesothelioma cells and shrink the cancerous tumors. This therapy is often used alongside other treatments or after surgery to prevent regrowth.
One major advantage of radiation therapy is that it significantly deals with the symptoms and increases victims’ life expectancies. It is an option for people who cannot have surgery or chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy
Another treatment option, mesothelioma immunotherapy, involves using medications to stimulate a victim’s immune system to target and kill cancer cells. This treatment slows the spread of the disease and improves life expectancy.
It is a solid option for patients whose cancer has affected other areas of the body where they can’t be surgically removed. Not all victims are eligible for immunotherapy. However, it might still be used after surgery.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy for mesothelioma uses medicines to attack specific chemicals in cancer cells. By blocking these chemicals, which are responsible for their growth, this therapy can cause cancer cells to die.
For patients, targeted therapy may be combined with chemotherapy for better results. This option also comes in handy if other treatments are ineffective after a mesothelioma diagnosis.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials for mesothelioma test emerging treatments and ways to improve existing treatments. Patients can participate in these trials and access innovative therapies. They mostly benefit those who have exhausted other options.
For instance, mesothelioma vaccine therapy is still in clinical trials. However, these trials do not guarantee results. You must carefully consult your healthcare provider about open clinical trials before participating.
Endnote
Due to its nature, it is important for mesothelioma patients to choose suitable treatment options. These options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Patients can also participate in clinical trials.
