Treatment Options for Mesothelioma
When facing mesothelioma, understanding the available treatment options is essential to make informed decisions about your care. Treatment plans may vary based on the stage of cancer, overall health, and individual preferences. Here’s a concise list of the primary treatment options for mesothelioma:
- Surgery:
- Surgery aims to remove cancerous tissues and tumors.
- Options include:
- Pleurectomy/Decortication (P/D): Removes the pleura without removing the lung.
- Extrapleural Pneumonectomy (EPP): Removes the affected lung and surrounding tissues.
- Chemotherapy:
- Medications are used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth.
- May be administered intravenously or directly into the affected area (intracavitary).
- Radiation Therapy:
- High-energy rays target and destroy cancer cells.
- May be used as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with surgery and/or chemotherapy.
- Immunotherapy:
- Boosts the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
- Includes checkpoint inhibitors and other targeted immunotherapies.
- Targeted Therapy:
- Focuses on specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
- Slows down cancer cell growth and prevents spread.
- Multimodal Therapy:
- A combination of two or more treatment approaches.
- Often includes surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
- Clinical Trials:
- Investigational treatments that offer new approaches and potential benefits.
- Palliative Care:
- Aims to improve the quality of life by managing symptoms and providing support.
- Supportive Therapies:
- Complementary treatments to alleviate side effects and improve well-being.
- Includes acupuncture, massage, and relaxation techniques.
- Personalized Treatment Plans:
- Each patient’s case is unique, and treatment plans are tailored accordingly.
Remember to discuss all available options with your healthcare team, as well as potential risks and benefits. Staying informed and proactive can help you make the best choices for your journey with mesothelioma.