Peritoneal Mesothelioma is a kind of cancer that commonly occurs due to increased exposure to asbestos for a long period of time. There are findings that this cancer develops even without asbestos exposure. This type of cancer affects the peritoneum, which is the lining that protects the internal organs of the abdominal cavity. The peritoneum is made up of mesothilial cells which are the cells affected by cancer. It is a rare form of mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, which is the cancer of the mesothelial cells of the covering of the lungs, is the more common form than the peritoneal mesothelioma.
Asbestos is a material used for insulation, which is resistant to heat and fire. It is used in the construction or engineering of buildings, ships, household appliances and motors. It has been reported that there is a higher incidence of mesothelioma in males because this type of caner is work related. Males are commonly hired for the construction or engineering of buildings, ships, motors and household appliances which causes the increased incidence of mesothelioma in males.
THE CULPRITS
There are three types of asbestos namely the blue, white and brown. These are all linked to cancer which caused asbestos to be banned in many countries such as the UK. Asbestos is made up of tiny fibers that can be breathed into the lung. It then works its way to the pleura irritating and damaging the mesothilial cell. Some asbestos might be coughed up as a defense of the body to get rid of the irritating foreign body that has entered the lung. When this happens the asbestos goes to the mouth and is then swallowed. It then works its way to the internal organs of the abdominal cavity irritating and damaging the peritoneum or the mesothilium, which the tissue made up of mesothelial cells that covers the internal organs. Upon exposure to asbestos, the fibers are deposited in the clothing of the worker. The worker exposed to asbestos spreads it to his family when he gets home through his clothing. This puts the family at high risk to developing mesothelioma since they are also exposed through asbestos.
There are also less common causes of mesothelioma. It has been found out that exposure to radiation can also cause pleural and peritonieal mesothelioma. Thoratast or thorioum dioxide was used in x-ray tests in the 1950s. Exposure to a mineral in turkey, which is called the Zeolite can also cause the cancer mesothelioma. The virus SV40 also known as the simian virus increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. It acts as a co-factor when the person is exposed to another risk factor, amplifying the possibility of developing mesothelioma.
GETTING CHECKED
It is not easy to diagnose mesothelioma. There is no specific screening for mesothelioma. People who are high risk to develop mesothelioma should be checked periodically in order to spot mesothelioma at the earliest stage possible so prompt treatment may be done. There are some signs and symptoms the doctors watch out to get further tests to confirm mesothelioma. Pain, swelling tenderness to any area and a possible lump are the common complaints that are considered.
Blood test is then done to evaluate the person's general health. If doctor suspects that the person may have peritoneal mesothelioma, the person may have abdominal x-ray, abdominal CT scan or abdominal MRI scan to check and confirm for swelling and fluid accumulation in the abdomen. Abdoparacentsis or fluid drainage from the abdomen may be done to relieve the swelling and pain around the abdomen and to see if there are malignant or cancerous cells in the fluid. Laparoscopy or biopsy of the abdominal lining or peritoneum may be done, wherein they get a tissue sample of the abdominal lining and check if the mesothelial cells are damaged by cancer.
If these tests confirm that one has peritoneal mesothelioma, it is then evaluated if it has spread to other parts of the body. This is called staging or determining the gravity of the cancer itself. This process is very important to determine what action or treatment will be done. A PET scan may be done to see how the cells are working. PET stands for positron emission tomography. This is done if the peritoneal mesothelioma cancer is treatable through surgery. This shows the extent of spread of the cancer cells to the other parts of the body like the lymph nodes and other organs.
Showing posts with label mesothelioma. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mesothelioma. Show all posts
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Alternative medicine options for the treatment of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Traditional mesothelioma treatments can be very expensive and can be taxing on the patient's body. Further, many patients are not considered candidates for some of the more extreme procedures. Many patients faced with these obstacles seek alternative medicine to help them in their battle with mesothelioma. Alternative medicine can take many forms which are:
(1)ACUPUNCTURE:-
The ancient art of Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years in the east. This therapy has recently been recognized in the United States as being very effective at alleviating the pains suffered by cancer victims. Many oncologists from around the country are recommending this treatment in conjunction with other more traditional treatments to make for pain alleviation.
(2)MEDICATION:-
Meditation has been very much recommended as an effective alternative treatment plan that allows the cancer patient to reduce both stress and pain. Some doctors also suggest that meditation can also aid the bodies immune function.
(3)
Hypnosis is another accepted way for a cancer patient to reduce his or her pain. Hypnosis should always be performed by a licensed and experienced professionals usually referred to as an hypnotist.
It should however be noted that in some cases ,orthodox medical therapy can be combined with alternative medical options for the treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma;as the ultimate aim is the effective management and/or the treatment mesothelioma .Majority of patients would normally go for the alternative therapies as the are less painful,effective and also cheaper as compared to the exorbitant bills charged for the orthodox medical treatments sucn as chemotherapy
(1)ACUPUNCTURE:-
The ancient art of Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years in the east. This therapy has recently been recognized in the United States as being very effective at alleviating the pains suffered by cancer victims. Many oncologists from around the country are recommending this treatment in conjunction with other more traditional treatments to make for pain alleviation.
(2)MEDICATION:-
Meditation has been very much recommended as an effective alternative treatment plan that allows the cancer patient to reduce both stress and pain. Some doctors also suggest that meditation can also aid the bodies immune function.
(3)
Hypnosis is another accepted way for a cancer patient to reduce his or her pain. Hypnosis should always be performed by a licensed and experienced professionals usually referred to as an hypnotist.
It should however be noted that in some cases ,orthodox medical therapy can be combined with alternative medical options for the treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma;as the ultimate aim is the effective management and/or the treatment mesothelioma .Majority of patients would normally go for the alternative therapies as the are less painful,effective and also cheaper as compared to the exorbitant bills charged for the orthodox medical treatments sucn as chemotherapy
All, the you need to know about treatment of Mesothelioma Cancer
The modern world knows that it is very difficult to diagnose mesothelioma, not to speak about curing it. Since it is an aggressive form of cancer patients and their families find themselves at a loss regarding the matter of treatment. But it is an issue which demands urgent attention considering the number of steady rise in the number of mesothelioma patients.
As in the case of any disease timely diagnosis is crucial in the treatments of mesothelioma. Once the doctors understand the stage disease, they can decide upon the course of treatment to be followed. The main factor to be understood is whether the cancer has spread or not. Even though research work is in progress, till now there is no cure for the disease except surgery. But it is a sad state of affair in the case of these cancer patients, it must have spread beyond the point where it could be removed surgically. Hence active symptom control is the only alternative left.
Radiotherapy is popularly used as part of the treatment to control symptoms of the disease. Along with that Chemotherapy is also used for the same purpose and for slowing down the growth of mesothelioma. A patient suffering from this type of cancer will be looked after by a multidisciplinary team rather than a single specialist. This specialist team includes surgeons who are experienced in chest surgery, nurses who give information and support, oncologists (radiotherapy and chemotherapy specialists), symptom control specialists, radiologists who help to analyze x-rays, pathologists who give advice on the type and extent of cancer etc. Other staff like physiotherapists, counselors and psychologists, social workers, dieticians etc will be readily available for help. Depending on the age, general health and impact of the disease on the person, together they decide the course of treatment to be followed.
Though the treatment to be followed will be decided by a team of cancer specialists, it is always better to go for a second opinion treatment. The second opinion may cause a delay in starting the treatment. But the doctor and the patient should have the confidence that it would be beneficial. How ever, before the treatment starts, the team has to get the consent of the patient. He should be made aware of the type and extent of the treatment, its advantages and disadvantages, significant risks or side effects and information regarding other treatment that can be availed.
Mostly people are afraid of cancer treatment thinking of its side effects. But these side effects can be controlled with medicines.The potential benefits of the treatment will vary from person to person. For those who are in the early stage of the disease, surgery and radiotherapy can be considered with the aim of curing the disease. Even some who are in the advanced stage may respond to the treatment well resulting in controlling the symptoms, thereby leading a better quality of life. But for some unlucky ones the treatment will bring only side effects without any relief in the symptoms. Any how the decision to carry on with the treatment will be difficult to make when the aim is controlling cancer and not curing it.
If you are looking for the information regarding Mesothelioma Treatments then feel free to visit the site
As in the case of any disease timely diagnosis is crucial in the treatments of mesothelioma. Once the doctors understand the stage disease, they can decide upon the course of treatment to be followed. The main factor to be understood is whether the cancer has spread or not. Even though research work is in progress, till now there is no cure for the disease except surgery. But it is a sad state of affair in the case of these cancer patients, it must have spread beyond the point where it could be removed surgically. Hence active symptom control is the only alternative left.
Radiotherapy is popularly used as part of the treatment to control symptoms of the disease. Along with that Chemotherapy is also used for the same purpose and for slowing down the growth of mesothelioma. A patient suffering from this type of cancer will be looked after by a multidisciplinary team rather than a single specialist. This specialist team includes surgeons who are experienced in chest surgery, nurses who give information and support, oncologists (radiotherapy and chemotherapy specialists), symptom control specialists, radiologists who help to analyze x-rays, pathologists who give advice on the type and extent of cancer etc. Other staff like physiotherapists, counselors and psychologists, social workers, dieticians etc will be readily available for help. Depending on the age, general health and impact of the disease on the person, together they decide the course of treatment to be followed.
Though the treatment to be followed will be decided by a team of cancer specialists, it is always better to go for a second opinion treatment. The second opinion may cause a delay in starting the treatment. But the doctor and the patient should have the confidence that it would be beneficial. How ever, before the treatment starts, the team has to get the consent of the patient. He should be made aware of the type and extent of the treatment, its advantages and disadvantages, significant risks or side effects and information regarding other treatment that can be availed.
Mostly people are afraid of cancer treatment thinking of its side effects. But these side effects can be controlled with medicines.The potential benefits of the treatment will vary from person to person. For those who are in the early stage of the disease, surgery and radiotherapy can be considered with the aim of curing the disease. Even some who are in the advanced stage may respond to the treatment well resulting in controlling the symptoms, thereby leading a better quality of life. But for some unlucky ones the treatment will bring only side effects without any relief in the symptoms. Any how the decision to carry on with the treatment will be difficult to make when the aim is controlling cancer and not curing it.
If you are looking for the information regarding Mesothelioma Treatments then feel free to visit the site
An overview of the asbestos cancer mesothelioma
Malignant mesothelioma is a cancer of organ linings. Two types of mesothelioma are peritoneal mesothelioma and pleural mesothelioma. Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the lining of the abdominal cavity and pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the chest wall and lining of the lungs. Pleural mesothelioma (or lung mesothelioma) is more common than peritoneal mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is an asbestos cancer. Exposure to asbestos often takes place at job sites. Many people who are diagnosed with mesothelioma worked with asbestos containing products such brake pads, roofing shingles and tiles. Workers at high risk of asbestos exposure include mechanics, electricians, plumbers and construction workers.
Mesothelioma symptoms and symptoms of other asbestos-related cancers often manifest decades after exposure to asbestos. Asbestos exposure usually occurs by inhalation of airborne asbestos fibers. Once asbestos fibers are inhaled, they become trapped in organs such as the lungs. These fibers can lead to the development of asbestos cancer decades later. Mesothelioma symptoms that a patient exhibits can vary depending on the type of mesothelioma involved. Common mesothelioma symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing of blood, abdominal swelling, night sweats, fever and unexplained weight loss.
Mesothelioma cancer has four stages of development. Accurate identification of the stage is important for the purpose of treatment. In the first stage of mesothelioma, the cancer is local to its point of origin in the body. In the second stage, the cancer has spread to regions of the body near the point of origin. In the third stage, mesothelioma has usually spread to more distant areas. In the fourth stage, the cancer can be found in the most remote areas of the body.
Presently, there is no cure for mesothelioma. However, there are mesothelioma treatments techniques that can be effective if applied during the early stages of mesothelioma. These treatment techniques include radiation therapy, photodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, gene therapy and surgery. Unfortunately, not all patients benefit from these treatment techniques. Patients whose cancer is at an advanced stage may not be eligible for one or more mesothelioma treatment approaches. However, there are many clinical trials underway for experimental drugs designed to treat mesothelioma. Mesothelioma patients should speak to their doctors about participating in these clinical trials.
People who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma should also consider contacting an experienced mesothelioma attorney. Asbestos exposure often occurs through the recklessness of companies in the asbestos industry. Many companies knew of the lethal dangers of asbestos but failed to disclose those dangers for the sake of protecting business interests. Further, many companies in the asbestos industry failed to provide protective equipment such as masks that could have prevented exposure to asbestos. As such, people suffering from mesothelioma may be entitled to file legal claims against companies responsible for their exposure to asbestos.
Mesothelioma symptoms and symptoms of other asbestos-related cancers often manifest decades after exposure to asbestos. Asbestos exposure usually occurs by inhalation of airborne asbestos fibers. Once asbestos fibers are inhaled, they become trapped in organs such as the lungs. These fibers can lead to the development of asbestos cancer decades later. Mesothelioma symptoms that a patient exhibits can vary depending on the type of mesothelioma involved. Common mesothelioma symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing of blood, abdominal swelling, night sweats, fever and unexplained weight loss.
Mesothelioma cancer has four stages of development. Accurate identification of the stage is important for the purpose of treatment. In the first stage of mesothelioma, the cancer is local to its point of origin in the body. In the second stage, the cancer has spread to regions of the body near the point of origin. In the third stage, mesothelioma has usually spread to more distant areas. In the fourth stage, the cancer can be found in the most remote areas of the body.
Presently, there is no cure for mesothelioma. However, there are mesothelioma treatments techniques that can be effective if applied during the early stages of mesothelioma. These treatment techniques include radiation therapy, photodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, gene therapy and surgery. Unfortunately, not all patients benefit from these treatment techniques. Patients whose cancer is at an advanced stage may not be eligible for one or more mesothelioma treatment approaches. However, there are many clinical trials underway for experimental drugs designed to treat mesothelioma. Mesothelioma patients should speak to their doctors about participating in these clinical trials.
People who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma should also consider contacting an experienced mesothelioma attorney. Asbestos exposure often occurs through the recklessness of companies in the asbestos industry. Many companies knew of the lethal dangers of asbestos but failed to disclose those dangers for the sake of protecting business interests. Further, many companies in the asbestos industry failed to provide protective equipment such as masks that could have prevented exposure to asbestos. As such, people suffering from mesothelioma may be entitled to file legal claims against companies responsible for their exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos Mesothelioma Cancer
Mesothelioma is one of the most uncommon forms of cancer. It generally affects the lungs, heart or abdominal organs. The most common form of this disease is pleural mesothelioma. The pleuron is a slight membrane between the chest cavity and the lungs. The lubrication it gives does not allow the lungs to get grazed when they come in contact with the chest wall. Pleural mesothelioma is also known as ""lung"" cancer. Peritoneal mesothelioma is another form of mesothelioma. The membrane that envelops the abdomen's organs is known as the peritoneum. While it is less common than pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma is more invasive and consequently more fatal for the patient.
Mesotheliomas are either easily curable or malignant. The most widespread form of mesothelioma is the "diffuse malignant pleural mesothelioma". This tumor is invasive and destructive. It characteristically spreads quickly to the lungs' surface, heart or abdominal organs. Life expectancy for patients afflicted by this cancer usually ranges between four months to two years. Of course, that depends a lot on myriad factors, like the stage of the disease's detection, the patient's health etc. With appropriate care, some patients have survived for a number of years.
Early diagnosis and surgery may elongate life expectancy. Surgery may not be a feasible option, however, for older or weaker patients. Radiation treatment and chemotherapy can help in the overall program. Home care and pain management are other alternatives during the later stages of the malignancy.
Automobile mechanics, painters, plasterers, pipe fitters, plumbers, shipyard workers and welders, to name a few, are in regular contact with asbestos and thus in greater danger of getting the disease than individuals of other professions.
Generally, it is believed that sustained exposure to asbestos is more liable to give one mesothelioma. However, some individuals with short but severe exposures have developed this malignancy. Also, a person can get this disease indirectly. Women, while washing the clothes of men (son, husband) who work with asbestos, can develop the cancer.
Mesotheliomas are either easily curable or malignant. The most widespread form of mesothelioma is the "diffuse malignant pleural mesothelioma". This tumor is invasive and destructive. It characteristically spreads quickly to the lungs' surface, heart or abdominal organs. Life expectancy for patients afflicted by this cancer usually ranges between four months to two years. Of course, that depends a lot on myriad factors, like the stage of the disease's detection, the patient's health etc. With appropriate care, some patients have survived for a number of years.
Early diagnosis and surgery may elongate life expectancy. Surgery may not be a feasible option, however, for older or weaker patients. Radiation treatment and chemotherapy can help in the overall program. Home care and pain management are other alternatives during the later stages of the malignancy.
Automobile mechanics, painters, plasterers, pipe fitters, plumbers, shipyard workers and welders, to name a few, are in regular contact with asbestos and thus in greater danger of getting the disease than individuals of other professions.
Generally, it is believed that sustained exposure to asbestos is more liable to give one mesothelioma. However, some individuals with short but severe exposures have developed this malignancy. Also, a person can get this disease indirectly. Women, while washing the clothes of men (son, husband) who work with asbestos, can develop the cancer.
Causes of cancer - mesothelioma
About Cancer Mesothelioma
Cancer mesothelioma is definitely in a problematic state with the average person living for 12-24 months upon diagnosis. If you can detect it sooner, your chances for treatment success are far greater. The prescribed treatment of cancer mesothelioma has varying results depending on the location of the cancer cells, the stage of the disease and the patient's over-all physical state. The typical treatments for cancer mesothelioma are radiation therapy, surgery and chemotherapy. There are many different types of cancer mesothelioma and they are all life threatening with approximately 2000 Americans diagnosed every year.
Asbestos is the Cause
This is a frightening fact because most of the authorities that OKed its use were aware of the possible illness. They knew that the handlers were bringing the dangerous substance home with them as well. That being the case, not only were the handlers exposed, but many of their family members were. Many of these family members with 2nd hand exposure developed the asbestos cancer, mesothelioma. When you are told the bad news of having asbestos related mesothelioma, the good news is a mesothelioma lawyer can help you fight those responsible for this cancer. As a worker if you have mesothelioma, the employer or company that put you into contact with asbestos is clearly accountable and your family deserves worthy compensation. Almost all cases of malignant mesotheliomas happen in people who have been exposed to asbestos, on the job or by people they live with. The affected person is able to claim the compensation amount from the firms that knowingly exposed you to asbestos spores. An individual who has got mesothelioma through the contact of asbestos should seek immediate legal assistance to claim the compensation. By simply avoiding contact to asbestos it can largely prevent malignant mesotheliomas.
What are the Symptoms?
At the beginning stages of Mesothelioma the symptoms are non-critical; therefore the disease is not that prevelent and has a fairly good success rate. However with pleural mesothelioma it affects the outer lining of your lungs with symptoms like coughing, chest pains, breathing and swallowing difficulties, wheezing, shortness of breath or loss of weight. These are the same symptoms that apply to many less serious illnesses but you are strongly advised to consult a physician immediately if you even suspect you have been exposed to Asbestos. The incubation period of the can be over years, often many years. A lot of suspicion is needed to make a timely diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma as the symptoms can be very subtly. This is because many of the symptoms are experienced in other sickness conditions. This usually means that Delay in the diagnosis is very common in most of the cases making its recovery rate difficult. Many times the symptoms can appear as non-specific to the patient and their medical professional. One of the biggest problems with pericardial mesothelioma is that its symptoms begin appearing in the cancer's latest stages. Remember that the onset of mesothelioma asbestos lung cancer is almost always very slow: if you are experiencing any symptoms it is not worth chalking it up for a common cold and moving on. Consult your family physician now.
Mostly in the Chest
Most of the Mesothelioma symptoms are caused by excess fluid between the lining of the lung and the chest cavity. You may experience extreme pain in the ribs or chest which is also agitated by the spread of the cancerous tumor. To provide relief from the symptoms and help regulate discomfort, doctors may use a needle or a thin tube which serves as a drain to the chest or abdomen area. This procedure is known as thoracentesis and removal of fluid from the abdomen is called paracentesis.
What are the Treatments?
Mesothelioma cancer is currently treated with 3 types of treatment and the patient's general health and age. These treatments depend on the cancer location and the disease stage. They include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, not necessarily in that order. They are sometimes are used together to fight the disease. Because this diseases symptoms are slow and steady, the success of many traditional treatments are very limited. Usually before a patient is treated, a doctor will evaluate them first, and then make a prescribed plan for treatment. Unfortunately, aggressive treatment strategies are almost always used, but it really boils down to how far the cancer has spread. Mesothelioma cancer has no known cure but, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and other pain treatments can help the patient deal with the discomforts and increase the life expectancy.
Surgery is Very Common
When surgery is scheduled, many tests are done to make sure the surgeons know the cancer has not spread. When the patient is young, strong and healthy, more aggressive surgery will be employed. Surgery is performed in 2 different ways. The 2nd way is a palliative procedure which is used for the purpose of reducing the symptoms of the cancer and not curing. Effective treatment surgery cannot be performed. Surgery is the most common conventional option for treating peritoneal mesothelioma cancer. The future is pretty grim for those with peritoneal mesothelioma, however new peritoneal mesothelioma treatments are being developed and experimented with every day, so there is always hope for a breakthrough.
Cancer mesothelioma is definitely in a problematic state with the average person living for 12-24 months upon diagnosis. If you can detect it sooner, your chances for treatment success are far greater. The prescribed treatment of cancer mesothelioma has varying results depending on the location of the cancer cells, the stage of the disease and the patient's over-all physical state. The typical treatments for cancer mesothelioma are radiation therapy, surgery and chemotherapy. There are many different types of cancer mesothelioma and they are all life threatening with approximately 2000 Americans diagnosed every year.
Asbestos is the Cause
This is a frightening fact because most of the authorities that OKed its use were aware of the possible illness. They knew that the handlers were bringing the dangerous substance home with them as well. That being the case, not only were the handlers exposed, but many of their family members were. Many of these family members with 2nd hand exposure developed the asbestos cancer, mesothelioma. When you are told the bad news of having asbestos related mesothelioma, the good news is a mesothelioma lawyer can help you fight those responsible for this cancer. As a worker if you have mesothelioma, the employer or company that put you into contact with asbestos is clearly accountable and your family deserves worthy compensation. Almost all cases of malignant mesotheliomas happen in people who have been exposed to asbestos, on the job or by people they live with. The affected person is able to claim the compensation amount from the firms that knowingly exposed you to asbestos spores. An individual who has got mesothelioma through the contact of asbestos should seek immediate legal assistance to claim the compensation. By simply avoiding contact to asbestos it can largely prevent malignant mesotheliomas.
What are the Symptoms?
At the beginning stages of Mesothelioma the symptoms are non-critical; therefore the disease is not that prevelent and has a fairly good success rate. However with pleural mesothelioma it affects the outer lining of your lungs with symptoms like coughing, chest pains, breathing and swallowing difficulties, wheezing, shortness of breath or loss of weight. These are the same symptoms that apply to many less serious illnesses but you are strongly advised to consult a physician immediately if you even suspect you have been exposed to Asbestos. The incubation period of the can be over years, often many years. A lot of suspicion is needed to make a timely diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma as the symptoms can be very subtly. This is because many of the symptoms are experienced in other sickness conditions. This usually means that Delay in the diagnosis is very common in most of the cases making its recovery rate difficult. Many times the symptoms can appear as non-specific to the patient and their medical professional. One of the biggest problems with pericardial mesothelioma is that its symptoms begin appearing in the cancer's latest stages. Remember that the onset of mesothelioma asbestos lung cancer is almost always very slow: if you are experiencing any symptoms it is not worth chalking it up for a common cold and moving on. Consult your family physician now.
Mostly in the Chest
Most of the Mesothelioma symptoms are caused by excess fluid between the lining of the lung and the chest cavity. You may experience extreme pain in the ribs or chest which is also agitated by the spread of the cancerous tumor. To provide relief from the symptoms and help regulate discomfort, doctors may use a needle or a thin tube which serves as a drain to the chest or abdomen area. This procedure is known as thoracentesis and removal of fluid from the abdomen is called paracentesis.
What are the Treatments?
Mesothelioma cancer is currently treated with 3 types of treatment and the patient's general health and age. These treatments depend on the cancer location and the disease stage. They include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, not necessarily in that order. They are sometimes are used together to fight the disease. Because this diseases symptoms are slow and steady, the success of many traditional treatments are very limited. Usually before a patient is treated, a doctor will evaluate them first, and then make a prescribed plan for treatment. Unfortunately, aggressive treatment strategies are almost always used, but it really boils down to how far the cancer has spread. Mesothelioma cancer has no known cure but, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and other pain treatments can help the patient deal with the discomforts and increase the life expectancy.
Surgery is Very Common
When surgery is scheduled, many tests are done to make sure the surgeons know the cancer has not spread. When the patient is young, strong and healthy, more aggressive surgery will be employed. Surgery is performed in 2 different ways. The 2nd way is a palliative procedure which is used for the purpose of reducing the symptoms of the cancer and not curing. Effective treatment surgery cannot be performed. Surgery is the most common conventional option for treating peritoneal mesothelioma cancer. The future is pretty grim for those with peritoneal mesothelioma, however new peritoneal mesothelioma treatments are being developed and experimented with every day, so there is always hope for a breakthrough.
Causes of Mesothelioma Cancer
Mesothelioma is the growth of malignant cells in mesothelium, the thin membrane covering the body's internal organs. This mesothelium lining covers the pleural, peritoneal and pericardial cavities. Pleura is a membrane covering the lungs and it is the most common location where mesothelioma cancer occurs also known as pleural mesothelioma. Peritoneum, the protective covering that lines the abdominal cavity may also develop malignant tumors and cause peritoneal mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is one of the rarest cancers in the world that is caused only by exposure to asbestos. Its exposure can be direct, by inhalation of asbestos or indirect exposure in which the asbestos particles are inhaled from the clothing, hair, equipment or other articles that were previously exposed to asbestos.
Causes of Mesothelioma Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral that is mined in different parts of the world due to its wide utility in various industries. However, it is a deadly carcinogen too and a mojor cause of mesothelioma and asbestosis.
Asbestos fibers are known to cause cancer of the mesothelium. Asbestos is the fibrous form of several minerals and hydrous silicates of magnesium found under ground. There are 3 types of asbestos, the blue one, the while one and the brown one. Of all these 3 types, the blue one also called amphibole, long and thin in structure is more carcinogenic than white or chrysolite asbestos or the brown one known as amosite.
However, in some cases the brown asbestos has also been found to cause mesothelioma. And it is for this reason that people exposed to asbestos even for a short period are vulnerable to the disease.
Pleural Mesothelioma Asbestos fibers are very fine and easily make their way to the lungs where they settle down in the parenchyma of the lung and penetrate the pleura that later develops malignant mesothelial plaques.
Pleura, which anchors lungs to the chest cavity, is itself a double-layered membrane. The inner layer called visceral pleura surrounds the lungs, while the outer one, known as parietal pleura, forms the lining of the pleural or chest cavity. The two pleural layers are filled with a fluid that helps them to slide over each other as we breathe. As the disease progresses, the delicate pleural membranes thicken and press the lungs. A fluid secreted by the malignant cells, pleural effusion, may also collect between visceral and parietal pleurae that causes problem in breathing and other complications.
Peritoneum Mesothelioma The asbestos fibers may also cause cancer in the peritoneum, known as peritoneal mesothelioma. This leads to thickening of the membranes surrounding abdominal organs and collection of a fluid, ascites in the abdominal cavity making it swell.
Though it is yet not clear how peritoneal mesothelioma develops, it is believed that from lungs, the asbestos fibers are transported to abdomen and its organs by the lymphatic system or they may be deposited in the gut through saliva contaminated by the asbestos fibers.
Pericardial Mesothelioma This is the rarest type of mesothelioma cancer that comprises of only 5% of all the mesothelioma cases. Like other types of mesothelioma cancer, pericardial mesothelioma is also caused by the inhalation of asbestos dust and fibers. The lining of the chest cavity which protects the heart is known as pericardium. It is provided with a natural fluid or mucous that provide continuous lubrication to the heart so that it can work properly and perform its functions.
As the asbestos particles settle further into the lining of the chest or pericardial, the cancer spreads in the body. It destroys the heart tissues and muscles that is very hazardous to life and proves fatal for the patient.
Laura Russell is a professional health writer having expertise in the field of Mesothelioma Cancer.
Friday, August 20, 2010
What is mesothelioma peritoneal
Peritoneal Mesothelioma is the name given to the cancer that attacks the lining of the abdomen.This type of cancer is caused by ABESTOS exposure and it affects the linings that protects the contents of the abdomen and which also provides a lubrication to enable the organs to move and work effectively. This disease is sometimes referred to as DIFFUSE PERITONEAL MESOTHELIOMA and this is where the cancer has spread out.Accountable for around 10% of mesothelioma cases, this type of abestos related cancer is the second most common(after PLEURAL MESOTHELIOMA).
There are a number of symptoms for these disease. However like all other types of MESOTHELIOMA, there is a very long latency period and symptom may not become evident for decades after exposure. This means that by the time the symptoms have begun,it is often already too late to offer any real constructive treatment. Further delay may be caused due to the fact that the symptoms are generally non specific and could therefore be attributed to a number of more common ailments.Unless your doctor is aware of the fact that you have been exposed to abestos in the past,he or she is likely to consider other options before even contemplating mesothelioma.It is therefore important to let your doctor know of any exposure to abestos as the case may be.
The symptoms of this disease include pain and weakness,weight loss, nausea, loss of appetite abdominal swelling, bowel obstruction. However depending on the location of the tumor, additional problems can be experienced such as breathing problems and severe pains.
There are a number of symptoms for these disease. However like all other types of MESOTHELIOMA, there is a very long latency period and symptom may not become evident for decades after exposure. This means that by the time the symptoms have begun,it is often already too late to offer any real constructive treatment. Further delay may be caused due to the fact that the symptoms are generally non specific and could therefore be attributed to a number of more common ailments.Unless your doctor is aware of the fact that you have been exposed to abestos in the past,he or she is likely to consider other options before even contemplating mesothelioma.It is therefore important to let your doctor know of any exposure to abestos as the case may be.
The symptoms of this disease include pain and weakness,weight loss, nausea, loss of appetite abdominal swelling, bowel obstruction. However depending on the location of the tumor, additional problems can be experienced such as breathing problems and severe pains.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
What is mesothelioma peritoneal
Peritoneal Mesothelioma is the name given to the cancer that attacks the lining of the abdomen.This type of cancer is caused by ABESTOS exposure and it affects the linings that protects the contents of the abdomen and which also provides a lubrication to enable the organs to move and work effectively. This disease is sometimes referred to as DIFFUSE PERITONEAL MESOTHELIOMA and this is where the cancer has spread out.Accountable for around 10% of mesothelioma cases, this type of abestos related cancer is the second most common(after PLEURAL MESOTHELIOMA).
There are a number of symptoms for these disease. However like all other types of MESOTHELIOMA, there is a very long latency period and symptom may not become evident for decades after exposure. This means that by the time the symptoms have begun,it is often already too late to offer any real constructive treatment. Further delay may be caused due to the fact that the symptoms are generally non specific and could therefore be attributed to a number of more common ailments.Unless your doctor is aware of the fact that you have been exposed to abestos in the past,he or she is likely to consider other options before even contemplating mesothelioma.It is therefore important to let your doctor know of any exposure to abestos as the case may be.
The symptoms of this disease include pain and weakness,weight loss, nausea, loss of appetite abdominal swelling, bowel obstruction. However depending on the location of the tumor, additional problems can be experienced such as breathing problems and severe pains.
Omoluwabi Oluwaseyi is a peritoneal resource personnel. Want to access hot bits of valuable information about this easily preventable menace of a disease? Good!!!! visit http://perimesoth-magic.blogspot.com
There are a number of symptoms for these disease. However like all other types of MESOTHELIOMA, there is a very long latency period and symptom may not become evident for decades after exposure. This means that by the time the symptoms have begun,it is often already too late to offer any real constructive treatment. Further delay may be caused due to the fact that the symptoms are generally non specific and could therefore be attributed to a number of more common ailments.Unless your doctor is aware of the fact that you have been exposed to abestos in the past,he or she is likely to consider other options before even contemplating mesothelioma.It is therefore important to let your doctor know of any exposure to abestos as the case may be.
The symptoms of this disease include pain and weakness,weight loss, nausea, loss of appetite abdominal swelling, bowel obstruction. However depending on the location of the tumor, additional problems can be experienced such as breathing problems and severe pains.
Omoluwabi Oluwaseyi is a peritoneal resource personnel. Want to access hot bits of valuable information about this easily preventable menace of a disease? Good!!!! visit http://perimesoth-magic.blogspot.com
Mesothelioma treatments
There are several methods of treatment for mesothelioma although none of these have a high success rate. In general, the chances of curing a mesothelioma patient depends on how much the cancer has developed and matured when treated. If tackled aggressively in its early stages, there is a good chance of survival. Due to the difficulty of diagnosing mesothelioma in its early stages, many mesothelioma treatments focus on improving the quality of life for patients.
Before a patient is treated upon, a doctor will decide what the best course of treatment is by considering the patient's age, medical history, general well being and even weight. From here, the doctor will decide which of the three most common treatments are most suited to the patient's condition. These treatments are surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Surgery
Surgery comes in two different types. Aggressive surgery is treatment which aims to gain long term control against the cancer and palliative procedures which aims to just relieve the patient of symptoms.
Aggressive surgery involves removing the pleura, the lung, the diaphragm and the pericardium. This procedure is known as extra pleural pneumonectomy. The aim of this is to remove as much of the tumour as possible without harming the patient. However, this is a very risky type of surgery and the chances are high of patient fatality within a month. Due to this, only young, fit individuals are referred to this form of treatment. Palliative procedures involve removing just the pleura in order to control the symptoms of the cancer. This is performed when mesothelioma is in an advanced form and is impossible to cure.
Chemotherapy
This is the most commonly known cure of cancer. Chemotherapy uses drugs to treat mesothelioma although many of these drugs have a poor success rate on patients. Combinations of drugs are often used to improve their effect. Some of these combinations have proved to be effective. Chemotherapy of mesothelioma is being improved regularly as research labs and pharmaceutical companies are discovering new and more effective drugs.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses radiation to kill the tumour which mesothelioma creates. However, this procedure is extremely difficult because of where the tumour grows. Due to the closeness of the tumour and many vital internal organs such as the heart and lungs, doctors have to be very careful as to the doses of radiation they use. Lower radiation doses can be used however this lowers its effectiveness.
Dual Therapy
This is often used and is just a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy combined. Surgery removes the majority of the tumour cells while chemotherapy and radiation therapy work on removing the remainder. This is an effective method and also lessens the symptoms of the cancer.
Before a patient is treated upon, a doctor will decide what the best course of treatment is by considering the patient's age, medical history, general well being and even weight. From here, the doctor will decide which of the three most common treatments are most suited to the patient's condition. These treatments are surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Surgery
Surgery comes in two different types. Aggressive surgery is treatment which aims to gain long term control against the cancer and palliative procedures which aims to just relieve the patient of symptoms.
Aggressive surgery involves removing the pleura, the lung, the diaphragm and the pericardium. This procedure is known as extra pleural pneumonectomy. The aim of this is to remove as much of the tumour as possible without harming the patient. However, this is a very risky type of surgery and the chances are high of patient fatality within a month. Due to this, only young, fit individuals are referred to this form of treatment. Palliative procedures involve removing just the pleura in order to control the symptoms of the cancer. This is performed when mesothelioma is in an advanced form and is impossible to cure.
Chemotherapy
This is the most commonly known cure of cancer. Chemotherapy uses drugs to treat mesothelioma although many of these drugs have a poor success rate on patients. Combinations of drugs are often used to improve their effect. Some of these combinations have proved to be effective. Chemotherapy of mesothelioma is being improved regularly as research labs and pharmaceutical companies are discovering new and more effective drugs.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses radiation to kill the tumour which mesothelioma creates. However, this procedure is extremely difficult because of where the tumour grows. Due to the closeness of the tumour and many vital internal organs such as the heart and lungs, doctors have to be very careful as to the doses of radiation they use. Lower radiation doses can be used however this lowers its effectiveness.
Dual Therapy
This is often used and is just a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy combined. Surgery removes the majority of the tumour cells while chemotherapy and radiation therapy work on removing the remainder. This is an effective method and also lessens the symptoms of the cancer.
Mesothelioma treatments is an aid to the ailment safely
Description of mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is mainly caused due to contact with asbestos, which has zeolite. When inhaled, the asbestos fibers reach the pleural layer of our lungs and damages the mesothelial cells. When consumed, the asbestos fibers get to our abdominal cavity and cause peritoneal mesothelioma that can spread to the other parts of the body.
However, it takes the disease 20 to 50 years to attain a full shape and by then the average life of that person shrinks.
Mesothelioma treatments
The determining factors that needs to be taken into account before the commencement of the mesothelioma treatment are:
- The site of the cancer
- The stage of the disease
- The patient's physical condition
The usual types of treatment for mesothelioma are surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. However, often a combination of these treatments is also used.
The primary steps
As the symptoms do not surface during the incubation period of the disease, it is a hindrance to the medical peoples in their diagnosis. The tests, prior to surgery, that are done regarding mesothelioma treatment are:
- Blood test to check the level of blood cells
- A CT or MRI scan to see the area the cancer had extended
- A lungs test to calculate the pumping power of the lungs
- A lung's perfusion test to check the flow of blood to the lungs
- An Echocardiogram to see if the cancer had reached the heart
Surgery
A good doctor-patient relationship really helps the patient to remove the fear of operation, which is to be undergone with an empty stomach, followed by TED stockings and a good anesthesia.
An intravenous infusion, a drainage tube, an oxygen mask and few similar devices form the postoperative mesothelioma treatment.
A chest drain tube helps the damaged lungs to pump in air after the removal of pleura. Pain that starts due to the healing of the damaged nerve cells is somewhat subdued via painkillers.
To end with, breathing and chest exercises come under mesothelioma treatment that accelerate the recovery.
Chemotherapy as mesothelioma treatment
It involves a variety of medications that are used to kill the cancerous cells. Chemotherapy is often administered along with radiation therapy and is considered an effective mesothelioma treatment.
Side effects of Chemotherapy
The side effects of chemotherapy are the decrease in red and white blood cells and platelets leading to anemia, loss of immunity, nausea. Bone marrow along with the cells of stomach, hair, skin and mouth suffer from chemotherapy. However, drugs called growth factors are prescribed that aids to get rid of the above side effects to a great extent.
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy, the emitting of high-energy rays to damage the DNA of the cancerous cells, both externally and internally, is a practical mesothelioma treatment relieving the patients from this fretfully fatal disease. It can be applied to reduce the tumor before operating and can even go along Chemotherapy.
The radiating rays destroy the damaged cells along with normal cells; but radiation therapy offers more than it takes.
However, you should seek the guidance of radiation oncologist who has a better understanding of the therapeutic process. It is costly and at the same time a powerful mesothelioma treatment.
New age ushers new kinds of mesothelioma treatments
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) via various clinical tests and trials are trying to achieve a better solution that reflects new lights regarding mesothelioma treatments.
- Gene therapy involves the replacement of the living cells of the patient's body by injecting a customized gene that fights the disease by providing a fresh supply of cells.
- Immunotherapy is the process of exciting your own immune system so that it fight backs the disease from the inside.
- Photodynamic Therapy unites a photosensitizing means with a light source reacting with oxygen, releasing certain chemicals to obliterate the melanoma cells.
Remember that mesothelioma treatment can show the frustrated and lonely man a new vista of existence. All types of cancer mesothelioma are life threatening and about 2000 Americans are diagnosed with it each year.
If you are reading this and you have a history of asbestos exposure, the next thing is to get an appointment with a medical practitioner.
Mesothelioma is mainly caused due to contact with asbestos, which has zeolite. When inhaled, the asbestos fibers reach the pleural layer of our lungs and damages the mesothelial cells. When consumed, the asbestos fibers get to our abdominal cavity and cause peritoneal mesothelioma that can spread to the other parts of the body.
However, it takes the disease 20 to 50 years to attain a full shape and by then the average life of that person shrinks.
Mesothelioma treatments
The determining factors that needs to be taken into account before the commencement of the mesothelioma treatment are:
- The site of the cancer
- The stage of the disease
- The patient's physical condition
The usual types of treatment for mesothelioma are surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. However, often a combination of these treatments is also used.
The primary steps
As the symptoms do not surface during the incubation period of the disease, it is a hindrance to the medical peoples in their diagnosis. The tests, prior to surgery, that are done regarding mesothelioma treatment are:
- Blood test to check the level of blood cells
- A CT or MRI scan to see the area the cancer had extended
- A lungs test to calculate the pumping power of the lungs
- A lung's perfusion test to check the flow of blood to the lungs
- An Echocardiogram to see if the cancer had reached the heart
Surgery
A good doctor-patient relationship really helps the patient to remove the fear of operation, which is to be undergone with an empty stomach, followed by TED stockings and a good anesthesia.
An intravenous infusion, a drainage tube, an oxygen mask and few similar devices form the postoperative mesothelioma treatment.
A chest drain tube helps the damaged lungs to pump in air after the removal of pleura. Pain that starts due to the healing of the damaged nerve cells is somewhat subdued via painkillers.
To end with, breathing and chest exercises come under mesothelioma treatment that accelerate the recovery.
Chemotherapy as mesothelioma treatment
It involves a variety of medications that are used to kill the cancerous cells. Chemotherapy is often administered along with radiation therapy and is considered an effective mesothelioma treatment.
Side effects of Chemotherapy
The side effects of chemotherapy are the decrease in red and white blood cells and platelets leading to anemia, loss of immunity, nausea. Bone marrow along with the cells of stomach, hair, skin and mouth suffer from chemotherapy. However, drugs called growth factors are prescribed that aids to get rid of the above side effects to a great extent.
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy, the emitting of high-energy rays to damage the DNA of the cancerous cells, both externally and internally, is a practical mesothelioma treatment relieving the patients from this fretfully fatal disease. It can be applied to reduce the tumor before operating and can even go along Chemotherapy.
The radiating rays destroy the damaged cells along with normal cells; but radiation therapy offers more than it takes.
However, you should seek the guidance of radiation oncologist who has a better understanding of the therapeutic process. It is costly and at the same time a powerful mesothelioma treatment.
New age ushers new kinds of mesothelioma treatments
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) via various clinical tests and trials are trying to achieve a better solution that reflects new lights regarding mesothelioma treatments.
- Gene therapy involves the replacement of the living cells of the patient's body by injecting a customized gene that fights the disease by providing a fresh supply of cells.
- Immunotherapy is the process of exciting your own immune system so that it fight backs the disease from the inside.
- Photodynamic Therapy unites a photosensitizing means with a light source reacting with oxygen, releasing certain chemicals to obliterate the melanoma cells.
Remember that mesothelioma treatment can show the frustrated and lonely man a new vista of existence. All types of cancer mesothelioma are life threatening and about 2000 Americans are diagnosed with it each year.
If you are reading this and you have a history of asbestos exposure, the next thing is to get an appointment with a medical practitioner.
Mesothelioma treatment stages
Mesothelioma is the term used for a cancerous tumor, which involves the mesothelioma cells of lungs, heart or abdominal organs. Medical specialists in mesothelioma provide treatment to the patients after assessing the stage of the mesothelioma in their specific case. They analyze the location of the cancer, the level to which it is spread and the patient?s age and general health condition.
Malignant mesothelioma is a disease in which the malignant cells are found in the sac that lines the chest or abdomen. There are four stages of malignant mesothelioma. The first stage is localized mesothelioma and the remaining three are considered advanced stages of mesothelioma treatments. Localized mesothelioma is the phase wherein the cancer is discovered in the lung, diaphragm or in the lining of the chest cavity. The patients in their first stage of mesothelioma get their cancer surgically removed by pleurectomy or decortication or extrapleural pneumonectomy.
In the second stage, the cancer is detected to have spread beyond the lining of the chest cavity. In the third stage, the tumor growth spreads into several areas that include chest wall, center of the chest, heart, and throughout the diaphragm. The treatment in the second, third and fourth stages of mesothelium are done in tandem with supportive care. The treatment for these advanced stages focuses on providing a patient with relief from symptoms, as total cure is generally not achieved. The treatment methodology includes thoracentesis that removes fluid accumulation in the chest cavity, operations to remove the tumor and radiation therapy or chemotherapy aimed at easing symptoms.
In the fourth stage, the cancer is in the process of distant metastasis, which implies that it has spread to other organs and tissues far from its site of origin in the pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial mesothelium. Patients suffering from the fourth stage should enroll themselves in clinical trials that evaluate the newest treatment possibilities in large medical centers. Pain management is an essential aspect of the care of such patients. It is important for patients to know that medications are available to effectively treat pain due to mesothelioma. They should request pain medications or discuss pain control problems with their cancer care team.
Mesothelioma Treatments provides detailed information on Mesothelioma Treatment, Mesothelioma Treatment Options, Alternative Mesothelioma Treatment, New Mesothelioma Treatment and more.
Malignant mesothelioma is a disease in which the malignant cells are found in the sac that lines the chest or abdomen. There are four stages of malignant mesothelioma. The first stage is localized mesothelioma and the remaining three are considered advanced stages of mesothelioma treatments. Localized mesothelioma is the phase wherein the cancer is discovered in the lung, diaphragm or in the lining of the chest cavity. The patients in their first stage of mesothelioma get their cancer surgically removed by pleurectomy or decortication or extrapleural pneumonectomy.
In the second stage, the cancer is detected to have spread beyond the lining of the chest cavity. In the third stage, the tumor growth spreads into several areas that include chest wall, center of the chest, heart, and throughout the diaphragm. The treatment in the second, third and fourth stages of mesothelium are done in tandem with supportive care. The treatment for these advanced stages focuses on providing a patient with relief from symptoms, as total cure is generally not achieved. The treatment methodology includes thoracentesis that removes fluid accumulation in the chest cavity, operations to remove the tumor and radiation therapy or chemotherapy aimed at easing symptoms.
In the fourth stage, the cancer is in the process of distant metastasis, which implies that it has spread to other organs and tissues far from its site of origin in the pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial mesothelium. Patients suffering from the fourth stage should enroll themselves in clinical trials that evaluate the newest treatment possibilities in large medical centers. Pain management is an essential aspect of the care of such patients. It is important for patients to know that medications are available to effectively treat pain due to mesothelioma. They should request pain medications or discuss pain control problems with their cancer care team.
Mesothelioma Treatments provides detailed information on Mesothelioma Treatment, Mesothelioma Treatment Options, Alternative Mesothelioma Treatment, New Mesothelioma Treatment and more.
Mesothelioma treatment centers
Mesothelioma treatments centers provide the best treatment for mesothelioma they possibly can. First, mesothelioma is a deadly cancer which is caused by asbestos. The mesothelioma affects the protective covering of the lungs, abdomen, and heart. This vital covering is referred to as the mesothelium. Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the abdomen while pleural mesothelioma affects the lungs. The leading cancer in terms of fatalities is pleural mesothelioma. This is because the asbestos that cause the cancer are mostly airborne. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally and it is mined to be used to produce many products. It has very special properties which make it very suitable for this. Apart from being resistant to heat, it is also fire proof.
New York mesothelioma treatment centers offer traditional ways of healing as well as non traditional methods. The most common traditional ways of treating mesothelioma used in New York are surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Not all mesothelioma cases have surgery as an option for treatment. The doctor will have to consider a few things before they decide surgery is suitable. If the tumors are very extensive, surgery may not work and it might even do more harm than good. If you qualify for surgery, the doctor will explain to you the various kinds of surgeries depending on the location of the cancer. The treatment is usually undertaken together with chemotherapy and radiation. This is referred to as 'multimodal' treatment and it is used for very severe cases.
Chemotherapy is the use of combination drugs to get rid of the cancerous cells. It is considered a very weakening therapy because of the side effects. You are also bound to loose hair while undergoing this treatment. Many drugs continue to be experimented on and sometimes, they are considered for chemotherapy. The use of high energy x ray is referred to as radiation and, what it does is to shrink the tumors and the radiation has some side effects which go away in a short while. The non traditional methods include photodynamic therapy. This therapy uses light and it is still in the experimental stage where the cancer cells are specifically destroyed by means of a fiber optic cable. New York mesothelioma treatment centers have this treatment but, only those who wish to be part of the experiment can participate.
Another non traditional way of treating mesothelioma is gene therapy which is also under clinical tests. This involves altering the gene of the cancer cells by means of injecting a 'suicide gene'. The cancer cells are targeted on their own unlike in chemotherapy. The New York mesothelioma treatments centers will give you more information on this topic. The university of Pennsylvania is researching on gene therapy. Immunotherapy is another treatment of mesothelioma that is also in the pipeline it is said to be very promising and it works by enabling the immune system to fight the cancer cells. There is no doubt that the future looks bright and in the cure for mesothelioma might just be around the corner. Meanwhile you can get the treatment available to manage the disease.
New York mesothelioma treatment centers offer traditional ways of healing as well as non traditional methods. The most common traditional ways of treating mesothelioma used in New York are surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Not all mesothelioma cases have surgery as an option for treatment. The doctor will have to consider a few things before they decide surgery is suitable. If the tumors are very extensive, surgery may not work and it might even do more harm than good. If you qualify for surgery, the doctor will explain to you the various kinds of surgeries depending on the location of the cancer. The treatment is usually undertaken together with chemotherapy and radiation. This is referred to as 'multimodal' treatment and it is used for very severe cases.
Chemotherapy is the use of combination drugs to get rid of the cancerous cells. It is considered a very weakening therapy because of the side effects. You are also bound to loose hair while undergoing this treatment. Many drugs continue to be experimented on and sometimes, they are considered for chemotherapy. The use of high energy x ray is referred to as radiation and, what it does is to shrink the tumors and the radiation has some side effects which go away in a short while. The non traditional methods include photodynamic therapy. This therapy uses light and it is still in the experimental stage where the cancer cells are specifically destroyed by means of a fiber optic cable. New York mesothelioma treatment centers have this treatment but, only those who wish to be part of the experiment can participate.
Another non traditional way of treating mesothelioma is gene therapy which is also under clinical tests. This involves altering the gene of the cancer cells by means of injecting a 'suicide gene'. The cancer cells are targeted on their own unlike in chemotherapy. The New York mesothelioma treatments centers will give you more information on this topic. The university of Pennsylvania is researching on gene therapy. Immunotherapy is another treatment of mesothelioma that is also in the pipeline it is said to be very promising and it works by enabling the immune system to fight the cancer cells. There is no doubt that the future looks bright and in the cure for mesothelioma might just be around the corner. Meanwhile you can get the treatment available to manage the disease.
Mesothelioma treatment and prevention
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer. It caused by previous exposure to asbestos. An exposure of as little as one or two months can result in mesothelioma 30 or 40 years later. Simian virus 40 (SV40) may act as a cofactor in the development of mesothelioma. Malignant mesothelioma is the most serious of all asbestos-related diseases. The two major types of malignant mesothelioma are pleural mesothelioma, which concerns the mesothelium membrane that surrounds the lungs, and peritoneal mesothelioma which concerns the mesothelium layer that covers the organs in the abdominal cavity. The people most at risk from being carriers of this cancer are those have worked with asbestos over the past thirty to fifty years. Because of this, the disease is most common in men between the ages of sixty and seventy as this is the group that commonly worked with asbestos during those years. Because of the lack of protection and regulations in those days, these workers were constantly exposed to the dust and fibres from the asbestos, which caused the cells of the mesothelium to become abnormal. Many building materials used in both public and domestic premises prior to the banning of asbestos may contain asbestos. Those performing renovation works or diy activities may expose themselves to asbestos dust.
Mesothelium helps protect the organs by producing a special lubricating fluid that allows organs to move around. Mesothelioma is an extremely malignant and incurable cancer that infects the membrane that surrounds most of the internal organs. Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath, cough, and pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleural space are often symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. Affecting the mesothelial cells that make up the mesothelium - the outer lining that protects the body's major organs such as the heart, stomach and lungs. Pleural mesothelioma represents 75% of mesothelioma cases - but it is far from the only type of this deadly cancer. Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the lining around the stomach and intestines, and is just as dangerous and deadly. Treatment of MM using conventional therapies has not proved successful and patients have a median survival time of 6 - 12 months after presentation. The clinical behaviour of the malignancy is affected by several factors including the continuous mesothelial surface of the pleural cavity
Mesothelioma Cancer Treatment and Prevention Tips
1. Health-care workers who specialize in part control are employing state-of-the art techniques to successfully fight pain.
2. During the initial stages of mesothelioma, pain can be relieved with over-the-counter analgesics, such as aspirin, Tylenol or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).
3. Drug therapy is the primary method for treating mesothelioma pain.
4. Non-Opoids are pain-relieving medicines such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and NSAIDs, such as ibuprofin, which can be purchases over-the-counter and taken orally.
5. Opoids are the strongest medicines available to treat pain. Opoids, such as codeine, morphine, oxcodone, fentany, and hydromorphone, are very effective in relieving mesothelioma pain.
6. Adjuvant analgesics are medicines intended for purposes other than pain relief. A number of these are used to alleviate pain associated with mesothelioma, such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and steroids.
7. Emotional Support to Help Relieve Pain.As with all aspects of mesothelioma, emotional support from family or professional counseling can play a key role in pain management
8. For patients with localized disease, and who can tolerate a radical surgery, radiation is often given post-operatively as a consolidative treatment.
9. Chrysotile has been used more frequently, hence many mesotheliomas are caused by chrysotile.
10. Removal is taking place in schools and other public buildings throughout the U.S. The hope is that these measures will greatly reduce the occurrence of this cancer.
Mesothelium helps protect the organs by producing a special lubricating fluid that allows organs to move around. Mesothelioma is an extremely malignant and incurable cancer that infects the membrane that surrounds most of the internal organs. Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath, cough, and pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleural space are often symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. Affecting the mesothelial cells that make up the mesothelium - the outer lining that protects the body's major organs such as the heart, stomach and lungs. Pleural mesothelioma represents 75% of mesothelioma cases - but it is far from the only type of this deadly cancer. Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the lining around the stomach and intestines, and is just as dangerous and deadly. Treatment of MM using conventional therapies has not proved successful and patients have a median survival time of 6 - 12 months after presentation. The clinical behaviour of the malignancy is affected by several factors including the continuous mesothelial surface of the pleural cavity
Mesothelioma Cancer Treatment and Prevention Tips
1. Health-care workers who specialize in part control are employing state-of-the art techniques to successfully fight pain.
2. During the initial stages of mesothelioma, pain can be relieved with over-the-counter analgesics, such as aspirin, Tylenol or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).
3. Drug therapy is the primary method for treating mesothelioma pain.
4. Non-Opoids are pain-relieving medicines such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and NSAIDs, such as ibuprofin, which can be purchases over-the-counter and taken orally.
5. Opoids are the strongest medicines available to treat pain. Opoids, such as codeine, morphine, oxcodone, fentany, and hydromorphone, are very effective in relieving mesothelioma pain.
6. Adjuvant analgesics are medicines intended for purposes other than pain relief. A number of these are used to alleviate pain associated with mesothelioma, such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and steroids.
7. Emotional Support to Help Relieve Pain.As with all aspects of mesothelioma, emotional support from family or professional counseling can play a key role in pain management
8. For patients with localized disease, and who can tolerate a radical surgery, radiation is often given post-operatively as a consolidative treatment.
9. Chrysotile has been used more frequently, hence many mesotheliomas are caused by chrysotile.
10. Removal is taking place in schools and other public buildings throughout the U.S. The hope is that these measures will greatly reduce the occurrence of this cancer.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Mesothelioma. How do doctors diagnose of asbestos cancer? Part 2
Continued from part 1.
If the effusion is suspicious for some infection or cancer, sample of the fluid may give the clue whether the cause is benign or malignant. However, four out of five tests may miss the cancer. Eventually, the biopsy of the pleura by a needle or by a surgical procedure confirms the diagnosis of the mesothelioma.
For abdominal mesothelioma, an abdominal x-ray checks the fluid in your belly.
Sometime an x-ray may show not only effusions, but also mass, or signs of asbestos accumulation, pleural plaques and calcifications or scarring due to asbestosis and chronic inflammation.
Drain of the fluid is done by needle in the chest or abdominal cavity. The name is thoracocentesis or pleural aspiration from chest, and abdoparacentesis or peritoneal aspiration in tummy.
At modern days the CT (computerized tomography) scan is used more often. CT is a special x-ray machine that shows sliced images of your body. CT scan of chest or abdomen shows the swellings in organs, cavities, and lymph nodes. A contrast dye may help to the scan. CT scans show pleural effusion, pleural thickening, pleural calcification, spreading of tumor into chest wall. However, CT do not really distinguish benign asbestos disease, lung cancer or mesothelioma. Doctors also use CT scans for guiding needle aspiration of suspicious pleural masses.
Thoracoscopy is the procedure when a surgeon makes small cut in your chest wall between two ribs and looks through a thoracoscope (a tool with a video camera). The biopsy (tissue sample) goes to a lab to check for cancer cells.
Bronchoscopy allows doctors to look inside the airways. A thin flexible tube (bronchoscope) helps to get samples of tissue and send them sent to a lab for testing for cancer cells.
Mediastinoscopy checks mediastinum (the area in chest containing heart, great blood vessels, lymph nodes, esophagus, nerves and so on). Mediastinoscopy allows sampling lymph nodes in your body to look for metastases.
Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure when doctors look inside of your belly with a small camera-fitted tube. The surgeons will biopsy suspicious areas. The bioptate (the tissue sample) goes to the laboratory. A pathologist checks it under a microscope. Laparoscopy leaves a small cut on the skin of your belly. Another name of the same procedure is peritoneoscopy. The tool is named peritoneoscope.
Putting a needle into your abdomen and removing the fluid inside is named paracentesis Putting a needle into your chest and draining the fluid is named thoracentesis.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan gives a sliced picture of the inside of your body. It is better than X-ray or CT scan because there is no radiation of your body. However it requires significant time. Sometimes it takes up to 20 minutes. And some people afraid to stay in the machine for half an hour required for the test. Besides MRI has a limitation. The test requires avoiding metals in your bodies (like metal joints and other metal implants). MRI is not a routine test, so sometime it is not ordered. Magnetic Resonance Imaging is most commonly ordered to determine the extent of tumor to plan the surgery. MRI also easier than CT scans shows enlarged lymph nodes and surface of diaphragm and this is important for surgical planning.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) came recently for diagnosing different type of cancers and mesothelioma as well. PET uses special radioactive substances that emit positrons. Localized mesothelioma is confined to the pleura. Advanced mesothelioma spreads to the lungs, chest wall, abdomen and lymph nodes.
Pathological examination checks biopsy samples under the microscope It is difficulty to diagnose mesothelioma sometime. The cells of the tumor may be of many different types. These cells may look similar to other cancers. Peritoneal cells may look similar to pleural mesothelioma or other types of lung cancer and even ovarian cancer. Epithelioid type of mesothelioma is more common and considered better for treatment more than aggressive sarcomatous type. Biphasic mesothelioma is the mixture of both.
Doctors and scientists also proposed some immunological makers to find mesothelioma, however majority of the markers are not very specific. Just to mention: Epithelial membrane antigen, CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen √ very unspecific, may happen in many different cancers), Calretinin, Mesothelin, Cytokeratin, osteopontin and some others.
So, to recap, the tests used by doctors:
*X-rays
*CT scan
*Thoracocentesis
*Paracentesis
*Thoracoscopy
*Bronchoscopy
*MRI scan
*Mediastinoscopy
*Laparoscopy
*All kinds of biopsy
The diagnosis is done after careful evaluation of complaints, physical exam and imaging in addition to the biopsy.
Keywords: Diagnosis, asbestos cancer, malignant pleural mesothelioma, mesothelioma symptoms, peritoneal mesothelioma, lung cancer
If the effusion is suspicious for some infection or cancer, sample of the fluid may give the clue whether the cause is benign or malignant. However, four out of five tests may miss the cancer. Eventually, the biopsy of the pleura by a needle or by a surgical procedure confirms the diagnosis of the mesothelioma.
For abdominal mesothelioma, an abdominal x-ray checks the fluid in your belly.
Sometime an x-ray may show not only effusions, but also mass, or signs of asbestos accumulation, pleural plaques and calcifications or scarring due to asbestosis and chronic inflammation.
Drain of the fluid is done by needle in the chest or abdominal cavity. The name is thoracocentesis or pleural aspiration from chest, and abdoparacentesis or peritoneal aspiration in tummy.
At modern days the CT (computerized tomography) scan is used more often. CT is a special x-ray machine that shows sliced images of your body. CT scan of chest or abdomen shows the swellings in organs, cavities, and lymph nodes. A contrast dye may help to the scan. CT scans show pleural effusion, pleural thickening, pleural calcification, spreading of tumor into chest wall. However, CT do not really distinguish benign asbestos disease, lung cancer or mesothelioma. Doctors also use CT scans for guiding needle aspiration of suspicious pleural masses.
Thoracoscopy is the procedure when a surgeon makes small cut in your chest wall between two ribs and looks through a thoracoscope (a tool with a video camera). The biopsy (tissue sample) goes to a lab to check for cancer cells.
Bronchoscopy allows doctors to look inside the airways. A thin flexible tube (bronchoscope) helps to get samples of tissue and send them sent to a lab for testing for cancer cells.
Mediastinoscopy checks mediastinum (the area in chest containing heart, great blood vessels, lymph nodes, esophagus, nerves and so on). Mediastinoscopy allows sampling lymph nodes in your body to look for metastases.
Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure when doctors look inside of your belly with a small camera-fitted tube. The surgeons will biopsy suspicious areas. The bioptate (the tissue sample) goes to the laboratory. A pathologist checks it under a microscope. Laparoscopy leaves a small cut on the skin of your belly. Another name of the same procedure is peritoneoscopy. The tool is named peritoneoscope.
Putting a needle into your abdomen and removing the fluid inside is named paracentesis Putting a needle into your chest and draining the fluid is named thoracentesis.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan gives a sliced picture of the inside of your body. It is better than X-ray or CT scan because there is no radiation of your body. However it requires significant time. Sometimes it takes up to 20 minutes. And some people afraid to stay in the machine for half an hour required for the test. Besides MRI has a limitation. The test requires avoiding metals in your bodies (like metal joints and other metal implants). MRI is not a routine test, so sometime it is not ordered. Magnetic Resonance Imaging is most commonly ordered to determine the extent of tumor to plan the surgery. MRI also easier than CT scans shows enlarged lymph nodes and surface of diaphragm and this is important for surgical planning.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) came recently for diagnosing different type of cancers and mesothelioma as well. PET uses special radioactive substances that emit positrons. Localized mesothelioma is confined to the pleura. Advanced mesothelioma spreads to the lungs, chest wall, abdomen and lymph nodes.
Pathological examination checks biopsy samples under the microscope It is difficulty to diagnose mesothelioma sometime. The cells of the tumor may be of many different types. These cells may look similar to other cancers. Peritoneal cells may look similar to pleural mesothelioma or other types of lung cancer and even ovarian cancer. Epithelioid type of mesothelioma is more common and considered better for treatment more than aggressive sarcomatous type. Biphasic mesothelioma is the mixture of both.
Doctors and scientists also proposed some immunological makers to find mesothelioma, however majority of the markers are not very specific. Just to mention: Epithelial membrane antigen, CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen √ very unspecific, may happen in many different cancers), Calretinin, Mesothelin, Cytokeratin, osteopontin and some others.
So, to recap, the tests used by doctors:
*X-rays
*CT scan
*Thoracocentesis
*Paracentesis
*Thoracoscopy
*Bronchoscopy
*MRI scan
*Mediastinoscopy
*Laparoscopy
*All kinds of biopsy
The diagnosis is done after careful evaluation of complaints, physical exam and imaging in addition to the biopsy.
Keywords: Diagnosis, asbestos cancer, malignant pleural mesothelioma, mesothelioma symptoms, peritoneal mesothelioma, lung cancer
Overview about Mesothelioma treatment options
Mesothelioma treatment options depend on many internal factors such as: stage, location, and the patient's age and desires. Important external factors to consider include the experience level of the oncologist with mesothelioma cases and whether or not a rural dweller would have to be transferred to a larger city for aggressive treatment or palliative care.
Patient survival rate is determined to be up to a year; while some leading cancer centers have reported life expectancy after diagnosis to be as much as five more years.
Screening
Imaging tests allow doctors to see a picture of the cancer site. These tests could include x-rays, CT scans (computed tomography), or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).
New Screening Instrument: The Mesomark Test
The Food and Drug administration has just approved (January 2007) the world's first in-vitro test for mesothelioma. The Mesomark assay test, developed by Fujirebio Diagnostics is administered to patients diagnosed with biphasic or epithelioid mesothelioma by a simple blood test. The test measures proteins within the blood that reflect changes in the patient's tumor volume, a key factor for monitoring patient status and response to therapies.
Traditional Treatment Types
Surgery, removal of the entire lung and a part of the chest lining, the diaphragm and part of the sac surrounding the heart.
Thoracoscopy is the insertion of an endoscope which is a small narrow tube, containing a tiny cameria into the pleural cavity to look directly at the tumor. Pathologist's perform a biopsy to collect a tissue. Often, chemical pleurodesis (draining fluid in the intrapleural space), can be accomplished during the same procedure.
Mediastinoscopy, another type of surgical incision is sometimes used to stage the extent of disease when enlarged nodes are seen using imaging techniques.
Laproscopy is used in mesothelioma patients when imaging techniques suggest that the tumor has penetrated through the diaphragm. This information is important in evaluating a patient for potential pleurectomy or extrapleural pneumonectomy.
Radiation Therapy (using high-dose x-rays or other high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
Radiation - Although mesothelioma tumors are highly resistant to radiotherapy, these treatments are sometimes used to relieve symptoms arising from tumor growth, such as obstruction of a major blood vessel.
Radiotherapy is commonly applied to the sites of chest drain insertion, in order to prevent the growth of the tumor along the track in the chest wall.
Chemotherapy - is used to stop the cancer cells from growing and dividing.
Immunotherapy: Heated Intraoperative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy requires the removal as much of the tumor as possible followed by the direct administration of a heated between (40 and 48°C) chemotherapy agent, into the abdomen for 60 to 120 minutes and then drained.
Palliative Procedures
Pleuroperitoneal Shunt is a procedure where a catheter is placed under the skin from the pleural to the peritoneal cavity. This procedure raising concerns as the catheter can cause damage by embedding itself into the abdomen.
Pleurectomy, a palliative procedure, may be performed when more extensive surgery is not an option. The procedure does not effectively remove all tumors. It is considered the most effective means of controlling pleural effusion (fluid buildup) in cases where the lung's expansion is restricted by the mesothelioma.
Potentially Curative Procedures
These procedures are performed with "curative intent".
Pleurectomy/Decortication is usually performed on patients with early stage pleural mesothelioma disease (Stage I and selected Stage II), and attempts to remove all gross tumor.
Extrapleural Pneumonectomy is surgery to remove a diseased lung, part of the pericardium, part of the diaphragm and part of the parietal pleura. This type of surgery is used most often to treat malignant mesothelioma and is combined with traditional chemotherapy and/or radiation, gene therapy, immunotherapy or photodynamic therapy.
Cytoreductive Surgery removes visible tumors in the peritoneal cavity. The remaining cancer cells are treated by Intra-Peritoneal Hyperthermic (heated) Chemotherapy (IPHC) and then delivered to the abdominal cavity.
New or Experimental Therapies
Gene Therapy: The best known tumor suppressor gene is called p53. If this gene is damaged or non existent oncogenes or cancer genes multiply at an abnormal rate. The main focus of gene therapy for mesothelioma involves injecting a virus that has been modified in the laboratory. The virus is injected into the pleural space in the chest, where mesothelioma develops as an attempt to kill the cancer cells.
Drug or Vaccine Therapy
Patients with mesothelioma have much higher levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) a chemical controlling blood vessel than people with any other type of cancer. Trials are being conducted to see if VEGF can be blocked, thus stopping the growth of blood vessels feeding the mesothelioma tumors.
Bevacizumab is a drug vaccine currently in use. One trial recently reported that this drug may increase survival for patients with lung cancer. An American phase 2 trial tested bevacizumab for mesothelioma, in combination with chemotherapy drugs. Bevacizumab is still in the experimental phase and much larger trials are needed before we will know how effective it will be in treating mesothelioma and other types of cancers.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
In Photodynamic therapy a drug called a photosensitizing agent is injected into the bloodstream and absorbed by the body's cells rendering the cells sensitive to light. When the area to be treated is exposed to laser light, the cells are killed. PDT has to be combined with surgery to treat patients in the early stages of mesothelioma. PDT is still in the trial stages and very experimental.
Clinical Trials and Eligibility
Clinical Trials provide research by using a sampling of people affected by the cancer. The National Cancer Institute states that the purpose of most listed clinical trials is to test new cancer treatments or new methods of diagnosing, screening for or preventing cancer.
Eligibility requirements for clinical trials are not the same; each study has specific guidelines for participation. Some trials allow participation after other treatments have failed, while others require that the patient did not have prior treatment. Choosing a clinical test should only be done after a medical consultation.
Prevention trials - study ways to reduce the risk, or chance, of developing cancer. Most prevention trials are conducted with healthy people who have not had cancer. These trials use drugs, vitamins or diet to reduce risk of cancer. Some trials are conducted with people who have had cancer and want to prevent the return of cancer (recurrence), or reduce the chance of developing a new type of cancer.
Screening Trials - study ways to detect cancer. They are often conducted to determine whether finding cancer before it causes symptoms decreases the chance of dying from the disease. These trials involve people who do not have any symptoms of cancer.
Diagnostic Cancer Trials - develops new tests or scans
Treatment Trials - studies new drugs or combinations of drugs; new ways of giving treatment, and new types of treatment
Quality of life trials explore ways to improve the comfort and quality of life of cancer patients and cancer survivors. These trials may study ways to help people who are experiencing nausea, vomiting, sleep disorders, depression, or other effects from cancer or its treatment.
Genetics Study Trials - are sometimes part of another cancer clinical trial. The genetics component of the trial may focus on how genetic makeup can affect detection, diagnosis, or response to cancer treatment.
Clinical trials are conducted in 4 phases:
Phase 1 trials look at whether a trial treatment drug is safe or has any harmful effects and attempts to establish the right dosage required.
Phase 2 trials look at the effectiveness of the treatment.
Phase 3 trials test a new treatment against the existing standard treatment. If it yields better results, it may become the new standard treatment.
Phase 4 trials are carried out after a drug has been licensed. They collect information about side effects, safety and the long term risks and benefits of a drug.
Ongoing research attempts to improve mesothelioma treatment options but clinical trials will not all result in new and better treatment. After testing, it may be discovered that the treatment being tested does not work, or that it has worse side affects than existing treatments. But, to researchers and doctors, and in the end for patients, it is crucial to keep this research going.
Patient survival rate is determined to be up to a year; while some leading cancer centers have reported life expectancy after diagnosis to be as much as five more years.
Screening
Imaging tests allow doctors to see a picture of the cancer site. These tests could include x-rays, CT scans (computed tomography), or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).
New Screening Instrument: The Mesomark Test
The Food and Drug administration has just approved (January 2007) the world's first in-vitro test for mesothelioma. The Mesomark assay test, developed by Fujirebio Diagnostics is administered to patients diagnosed with biphasic or epithelioid mesothelioma by a simple blood test. The test measures proteins within the blood that reflect changes in the patient's tumor volume, a key factor for monitoring patient status and response to therapies.
Traditional Treatment Types
Surgery, removal of the entire lung and a part of the chest lining, the diaphragm and part of the sac surrounding the heart.
Thoracoscopy is the insertion of an endoscope which is a small narrow tube, containing a tiny cameria into the pleural cavity to look directly at the tumor. Pathologist's perform a biopsy to collect a tissue. Often, chemical pleurodesis (draining fluid in the intrapleural space), can be accomplished during the same procedure.
Mediastinoscopy, another type of surgical incision is sometimes used to stage the extent of disease when enlarged nodes are seen using imaging techniques.
Laproscopy is used in mesothelioma patients when imaging techniques suggest that the tumor has penetrated through the diaphragm. This information is important in evaluating a patient for potential pleurectomy or extrapleural pneumonectomy.
Radiation Therapy (using high-dose x-rays or other high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
Radiation - Although mesothelioma tumors are highly resistant to radiotherapy, these treatments are sometimes used to relieve symptoms arising from tumor growth, such as obstruction of a major blood vessel.
Radiotherapy is commonly applied to the sites of chest drain insertion, in order to prevent the growth of the tumor along the track in the chest wall.
Chemotherapy - is used to stop the cancer cells from growing and dividing.
Immunotherapy: Heated Intraoperative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy requires the removal as much of the tumor as possible followed by the direct administration of a heated between (40 and 48°C) chemotherapy agent, into the abdomen for 60 to 120 minutes and then drained.
Palliative Procedures
Pleuroperitoneal Shunt is a procedure where a catheter is placed under the skin from the pleural to the peritoneal cavity. This procedure raising concerns as the catheter can cause damage by embedding itself into the abdomen.
Pleurectomy, a palliative procedure, may be performed when more extensive surgery is not an option. The procedure does not effectively remove all tumors. It is considered the most effective means of controlling pleural effusion (fluid buildup) in cases where the lung's expansion is restricted by the mesothelioma.
Potentially Curative Procedures
These procedures are performed with "curative intent".
Pleurectomy/Decortication is usually performed on patients with early stage pleural mesothelioma disease (Stage I and selected Stage II), and attempts to remove all gross tumor.
Extrapleural Pneumonectomy is surgery to remove a diseased lung, part of the pericardium, part of the diaphragm and part of the parietal pleura. This type of surgery is used most often to treat malignant mesothelioma and is combined with traditional chemotherapy and/or radiation, gene therapy, immunotherapy or photodynamic therapy.
Cytoreductive Surgery removes visible tumors in the peritoneal cavity. The remaining cancer cells are treated by Intra-Peritoneal Hyperthermic (heated) Chemotherapy (IPHC) and then delivered to the abdominal cavity.
New or Experimental Therapies
Gene Therapy: The best known tumor suppressor gene is called p53. If this gene is damaged or non existent oncogenes or cancer genes multiply at an abnormal rate. The main focus of gene therapy for mesothelioma involves injecting a virus that has been modified in the laboratory. The virus is injected into the pleural space in the chest, where mesothelioma develops as an attempt to kill the cancer cells.
Drug or Vaccine Therapy
Patients with mesothelioma have much higher levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) a chemical controlling blood vessel than people with any other type of cancer. Trials are being conducted to see if VEGF can be blocked, thus stopping the growth of blood vessels feeding the mesothelioma tumors.
Bevacizumab is a drug vaccine currently in use. One trial recently reported that this drug may increase survival for patients with lung cancer. An American phase 2 trial tested bevacizumab for mesothelioma, in combination with chemotherapy drugs. Bevacizumab is still in the experimental phase and much larger trials are needed before we will know how effective it will be in treating mesothelioma and other types of cancers.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
In Photodynamic therapy a drug called a photosensitizing agent is injected into the bloodstream and absorbed by the body's cells rendering the cells sensitive to light. When the area to be treated is exposed to laser light, the cells are killed. PDT has to be combined with surgery to treat patients in the early stages of mesothelioma. PDT is still in the trial stages and very experimental.
Clinical Trials and Eligibility
Clinical Trials provide research by using a sampling of people affected by the cancer. The National Cancer Institute states that the purpose of most listed clinical trials is to test new cancer treatments or new methods of diagnosing, screening for or preventing cancer.
Eligibility requirements for clinical trials are not the same; each study has specific guidelines for participation. Some trials allow participation after other treatments have failed, while others require that the patient did not have prior treatment. Choosing a clinical test should only be done after a medical consultation.
Prevention trials - study ways to reduce the risk, or chance, of developing cancer. Most prevention trials are conducted with healthy people who have not had cancer. These trials use drugs, vitamins or diet to reduce risk of cancer. Some trials are conducted with people who have had cancer and want to prevent the return of cancer (recurrence), or reduce the chance of developing a new type of cancer.
Screening Trials - study ways to detect cancer. They are often conducted to determine whether finding cancer before it causes symptoms decreases the chance of dying from the disease. These trials involve people who do not have any symptoms of cancer.
Diagnostic Cancer Trials - develops new tests or scans
Treatment Trials - studies new drugs or combinations of drugs; new ways of giving treatment, and new types of treatment
Quality of life trials explore ways to improve the comfort and quality of life of cancer patients and cancer survivors. These trials may study ways to help people who are experiencing nausea, vomiting, sleep disorders, depression, or other effects from cancer or its treatment.
Genetics Study Trials - are sometimes part of another cancer clinical trial. The genetics component of the trial may focus on how genetic makeup can affect detection, diagnosis, or response to cancer treatment.
Clinical trials are conducted in 4 phases:
Phase 1 trials look at whether a trial treatment drug is safe or has any harmful effects and attempts to establish the right dosage required.
Phase 2 trials look at the effectiveness of the treatment.
Phase 3 trials test a new treatment against the existing standard treatment. If it yields better results, it may become the new standard treatment.
Phase 4 trials are carried out after a drug has been licensed. They collect information about side effects, safety and the long term risks and benefits of a drug.
Ongoing research attempts to improve mesothelioma treatment options but clinical trials will not all result in new and better treatment. After testing, it may be discovered that the treatment being tested does not work, or that it has worse side affects than existing treatments. But, to researchers and doctors, and in the end for patients, it is crucial to keep this research going.
Mesothelioma treatment tips
Malignant mesothelioma is the cancer of the mesothelium. Mesothelium is the protective lining that covers most of the internal organs of the body. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the cancer of the linings of the lungs. We also have peritoneal mesothelioma, endothelial mesothelioma, e.t.c.
Just like any cancer, treatment of malignant mesothelioma depends on location of the cancer, age of the patients, extent of the cancer and overall health status of the mesothelioma patient.
Among the various ways of mesothelioma treatments are:
1) Mesothelioma Surgery: the lining of the affected organ is removed. This method is best recommended when used in combination with others.
2) Mesothelioma Radiation: this involves directing radiations such as UV light to affected linings.
3) Mesothelium Immunotherapy: This involves boosting the immune system against the cancer cells using some substances like Bacillus Calmette- Guerin (BCG), interleukin, e.t.c.
4) Mesothelium Chemotherapy: Here, some chemicals are used to treat mesothelium. Examples of these chemicals are Cisplatin, Raltitrexed, pemetrexed, folate, vitamin B12, e.t.c.
5) Administration of Lovastatin. Lovastatin significantly lowers the cholesterol level of the body.
6) Early detections is very important in the effective treatment and recovery of mesothelioma. This also applies
to most cancer cases.
7)Photodynamic treatment where a photosensitive medication is activated using a laser. This is done during the surgical removal of cancerous tissues.
8) Finally, engage the services of a mesothelioma lawyer. The mesotheliomal lawyers can help you source for funds from the government. The patient can then use this money to go for adequate treatment or prognosis.
Just like any cancer, treatment of malignant mesothelioma depends on location of the cancer, age of the patients, extent of the cancer and overall health status of the mesothelioma patient.
Among the various ways of mesothelioma treatments are:
1) Mesothelioma Surgery: the lining of the affected organ is removed. This method is best recommended when used in combination with others.
2) Mesothelioma Radiation: this involves directing radiations such as UV light to affected linings.
3) Mesothelium Immunotherapy: This involves boosting the immune system against the cancer cells using some substances like Bacillus Calmette- Guerin (BCG), interleukin, e.t.c.
4) Mesothelium Chemotherapy: Here, some chemicals are used to treat mesothelium. Examples of these chemicals are Cisplatin, Raltitrexed, pemetrexed, folate, vitamin B12, e.t.c.
5) Administration of Lovastatin. Lovastatin significantly lowers the cholesterol level of the body.
6) Early detections is very important in the effective treatment and recovery of mesothelioma. This also applies
to most cancer cases.
7)Photodynamic treatment where a photosensitive medication is activated using a laser. This is done during the surgical removal of cancerous tissues.
8) Finally, engage the services of a mesothelioma lawyer. The mesotheliomal lawyers can help you source for funds from the government. The patient can then use this money to go for adequate treatment or prognosis.
Peritoneal mesothelioma cancer - symptoms & treatment options
Peritoneal mesothelioma, also known as asbestos lung cancer, is a relatively uncommon form of mesothelioma cancer, accounting for less than a quarter of all mesothelioma cases. It is called peritoneal because it appears as a tumor in the peritoneum membrane of the abdomen.
Causes
Exposure to asbestos is the only known cause of this disease in the USA. Patients afflicted with Peritoneal Mesothelioma have inhaled or swallowed asbestos fibers usually through work related activities. Symptoms do not occur until 20 to 40 years after contact with the mineral and its by products. Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is often fatal and patients who are afflicted by it live on average of less than a year from the time of their diagnosis.
Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Symptoms may include abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, a change in your bowel habits, such as more frequent diarrhea or constipation, lumps of tissue in the abdomen and unexplained weight loss.
Diagnostic Tools
Peritoneal Mesothelioma is first detected by X-rays or CT scans, peritoneoscopy (analysis of the peritoneum) or a biopsy where a tissue sample in taken for examination by a pathologist.
Treatment Options
Localized treatments treat only the original cancer site by either surgery or radiotherapy. A peritonectomy is a surgery used when peritoneal mesothelioma is detected early on. However, the symptoms are usually detected only in the most advanced stages because of the gradual development of symptoms. Complete removal of the caner through surgery is doubtful even in the earliest stages of the disease. The first 30 days following surgery are crucial. Unfortunately, the post surgery death rate for this operation is very high. Many patients do not make it through the procedure. With this in mind, many medical centers do not choose surgery as a viable treatment option plan at this time.
Regional chemotherapy is used in peritoneal mesothelioma cases, when the cancer is still localized at its point of origin. This option treatment is employed in both early and late stages of the disease using anti-cancer drugs. The drugs are injected directly into the abdomen. Patients undergo weekly or biweekly treatments depending upon the specific drugs used.
An additional procedure known as adjuvant chemotherapy, (regional chemotherapy) can be used directly following surgery in order to reduce the likelihood of the cancer returning. However, when the cancer cannot be entirely removed through surgery, chemotherapy will continue throughout the existence of the cancer in an attempt to slow its development.
A second type of treatment known as systemic treatments are used when the cancer has metastasized (spread throughout the body). Systematic treatments are implemented in either earlier stages or late stages of peritoneal mesothelioma.
Since peritoneal mesothelioma often remains dormant for years, the cancer is usually detected in its end stages. At this point patients are too ill to handle intensive chemotherapy. Doctors choose non-aggressive palliative care mesothelioma treatments at this time. Treatment goals are concentrated on remedying pain, discomfort and weight loss rather than attacking the disease head on. One type of pain common in the late states of this disease is caused by fluid buildup inside the abdomen. Doctors will attempt to reduce the pain and discomfort by draining the excess fluid through a procedure called abdominal paracentesis.
Causes
Exposure to asbestos is the only known cause of this disease in the USA. Patients afflicted with Peritoneal Mesothelioma have inhaled or swallowed asbestos fibers usually through work related activities. Symptoms do not occur until 20 to 40 years after contact with the mineral and its by products. Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is often fatal and patients who are afflicted by it live on average of less than a year from the time of their diagnosis.
Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Symptoms may include abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, a change in your bowel habits, such as more frequent diarrhea or constipation, lumps of tissue in the abdomen and unexplained weight loss.
Diagnostic Tools
Peritoneal Mesothelioma is first detected by X-rays or CT scans, peritoneoscopy (analysis of the peritoneum) or a biopsy where a tissue sample in taken for examination by a pathologist.
Treatment Options
Localized treatments treat only the original cancer site by either surgery or radiotherapy. A peritonectomy is a surgery used when peritoneal mesothelioma is detected early on. However, the symptoms are usually detected only in the most advanced stages because of the gradual development of symptoms. Complete removal of the caner through surgery is doubtful even in the earliest stages of the disease. The first 30 days following surgery are crucial. Unfortunately, the post surgery death rate for this operation is very high. Many patients do not make it through the procedure. With this in mind, many medical centers do not choose surgery as a viable treatment option plan at this time.
Regional chemotherapy is used in peritoneal mesothelioma cases, when the cancer is still localized at its point of origin. This option treatment is employed in both early and late stages of the disease using anti-cancer drugs. The drugs are injected directly into the abdomen. Patients undergo weekly or biweekly treatments depending upon the specific drugs used.
An additional procedure known as adjuvant chemotherapy, (regional chemotherapy) can be used directly following surgery in order to reduce the likelihood of the cancer returning. However, when the cancer cannot be entirely removed through surgery, chemotherapy will continue throughout the existence of the cancer in an attempt to slow its development.
A second type of treatment known as systemic treatments are used when the cancer has metastasized (spread throughout the body). Systematic treatments are implemented in either earlier stages or late stages of peritoneal mesothelioma.
Since peritoneal mesothelioma often remains dormant for years, the cancer is usually detected in its end stages. At this point patients are too ill to handle intensive chemotherapy. Doctors choose non-aggressive palliative care mesothelioma treatments at this time. Treatment goals are concentrated on remedying pain, discomfort and weight loss rather than attacking the disease head on. One type of pain common in the late states of this disease is caused by fluid buildup inside the abdomen. Doctors will attempt to reduce the pain and discomfort by draining the excess fluid through a procedure called abdominal paracentesis.
Peritoneal mesothelioma information
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a malignancy that targets the lining of the abdomen. This form of cancer, like pleural mesothelioma, is mostly a result of exposure to asbestos. Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the lining that guards the abdomen's insides, and which also gives a lubricating fluid that facilitates the smooth movement and functioning of the organs.
This disease is also called diffuse peritoneal mesothelioma, particularly when the cancer has branched out. It accounts for about a tenth of all mesothelioma patients, and is the second most common after pleural mesothelioma.
There are a number of symptoms of mesothelioma. Similar to other mesothelioma diseases, the latency period is long, and symptoms remain dormant for decades after initial exposure. By the time the symptoms become conspicuous, it may be too late. Furthermore, if your doctor is not aware of your previous exposure to asbestos, then he may treat you for different ailments.
The most common symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are weight loss; nausea; abdominal pains and weakness; lack of appetite; bowel obstruction; and abdominal swelling. Problems such as shortness of breath and extreme pain can also be experienced.
Treatment for this form of mesothelioma is dependant on a number of factors, such as the extent of the cancer and the patient's general health, age and past medical history.
Surgery is one conventional option of treating peritoneal mesothelioma. This involves taking out portions of the abdomen's lining in order to remove the tumor. Surgery also depends largely on the age of the patient and the extent to which the cancer has spread. Sometimes, it becomes imperative to take out a part of the diaphragm, so as to facilitate the easy removal of the tumor.
In radiation therapy, high-energy x-rays are deployed to shrink the size of the tumor or kill off malignant cells. Radiation therapy can be approached in two ways. One is the external method, where radiation is emitted through the body from a machine placed outside. The second method is by emitting radiation directly to the malignant area through plastic tubes.
Chemotherapy is doubtless the most common and well-known method of combating cancer. Here, a combination of drugs - through tablets or needles -- is used to kill malignant cells.
This disease is also called diffuse peritoneal mesothelioma, particularly when the cancer has branched out. It accounts for about a tenth of all mesothelioma patients, and is the second most common after pleural mesothelioma.
There are a number of symptoms of mesothelioma. Similar to other mesothelioma diseases, the latency period is long, and symptoms remain dormant for decades after initial exposure. By the time the symptoms become conspicuous, it may be too late. Furthermore, if your doctor is not aware of your previous exposure to asbestos, then he may treat you for different ailments.
The most common symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are weight loss; nausea; abdominal pains and weakness; lack of appetite; bowel obstruction; and abdominal swelling. Problems such as shortness of breath and extreme pain can also be experienced.
Treatment for this form of mesothelioma is dependant on a number of factors, such as the extent of the cancer and the patient's general health, age and past medical history.
Surgery is one conventional option of treating peritoneal mesothelioma. This involves taking out portions of the abdomen's lining in order to remove the tumor. Surgery also depends largely on the age of the patient and the extent to which the cancer has spread. Sometimes, it becomes imperative to take out a part of the diaphragm, so as to facilitate the easy removal of the tumor.
In radiation therapy, high-energy x-rays are deployed to shrink the size of the tumor or kill off malignant cells. Radiation therapy can be approached in two ways. One is the external method, where radiation is emitted through the body from a machine placed outside. The second method is by emitting radiation directly to the malignant area through plastic tubes.
Chemotherapy is doubtless the most common and well-known method of combating cancer. Here, a combination of drugs - through tablets or needles -- is used to kill malignant cells.
Peritoneal mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma is one of the deadliest and most painful forms of cancer. Fortunately it is also one of the rarer forms of a relatively uncommon cancer, though that is small comfort to the thousands of people that must endure it every day. This terminal condition begins when a person ingests the microscopic jagged asbestos fibers. Asbestos is a naturally-occurring, fibrous mineral that has been used in fireproofing and insulation for millennia, and even since these ancient times those that worked with asbestos tended to die even earlier than other people did.
During the manufacturing process asbestos fibers are often released into the air, where their light weight and small size allows them to settle in the mouths and throats of anyone nearby, and they can even be carried home where they can contaminate the friends and family of the original worker.
Peritoneal mesothelioma begins when asbestos fibers enter the digestive track and slice through the tissues of the stomach and intestines. These fibers shred through these organs and protrude through them and puncture the peritoneal mesothelium, the delicate membrane that secretes the lubrication that allows them to move during digestion. Without this vital lubrication the organs could not process food properly. Some of the symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include:
o Abdominal pain
o Abdominal mass
o Weight loss
o Abnormal bowel function
o Fluid buildup in the abdomen
o Expanding waistline but losing weight
o Blood clots
Unfortunately, peritoneal mesothelioma does not usually present symptoms until it is extremely advanced, and by that time it is usually impossible to treat. Further complicating diagnosis of peritoneal mesothelioma is the nature of the disease itself; the symptoms are often confused with less dangerous conditions such as indigestion or heartburn.
Peritoneal mesothelioma is always fatal. By the time it is diagnosed it is usually so advanced that the only treatment available is to make the victim as comfortable as possible and relieve as much pain as they can. Most victims usually succumb within six to eight months after diagnosis; a few cases manage to survive longer than a year, but few if any survive longer than five years.
There is hope for victims of peritoneal mesothelioma. New treatments include photodynamic, gene, angiogenesis, and immunotherapy that could hold the key to turning the tide on this deadly, debilitating, and tragic disease.
During the manufacturing process asbestos fibers are often released into the air, where their light weight and small size allows them to settle in the mouths and throats of anyone nearby, and they can even be carried home where they can contaminate the friends and family of the original worker.
Peritoneal mesothelioma begins when asbestos fibers enter the digestive track and slice through the tissues of the stomach and intestines. These fibers shred through these organs and protrude through them and puncture the peritoneal mesothelium, the delicate membrane that secretes the lubrication that allows them to move during digestion. Without this vital lubrication the organs could not process food properly. Some of the symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include:
o Abdominal pain
o Abdominal mass
o Weight loss
o Abnormal bowel function
o Fluid buildup in the abdomen
o Expanding waistline but losing weight
o Blood clots
Unfortunately, peritoneal mesothelioma does not usually present symptoms until it is extremely advanced, and by that time it is usually impossible to treat. Further complicating diagnosis of peritoneal mesothelioma is the nature of the disease itself; the symptoms are often confused with less dangerous conditions such as indigestion or heartburn.
Peritoneal mesothelioma is always fatal. By the time it is diagnosed it is usually so advanced that the only treatment available is to make the victim as comfortable as possible and relieve as much pain as they can. Most victims usually succumb within six to eight months after diagnosis; a few cases manage to survive longer than a year, but few if any survive longer than five years.
There is hope for victims of peritoneal mesothelioma. New treatments include photodynamic, gene, angiogenesis, and immunotherapy that could hold the key to turning the tide on this deadly, debilitating, and tragic disease.
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