Treatment Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma May Keep You Alive

Posted by Heidi Wingrain

February 8, 2010

Of the three types of mesothelioma, a cancer affecting the mesothelium, malignant pleural mesothelioma is the most widespread. The cancer is rare and only fewer than 3000 mesothelioma cases are reported yearly in the United States. The pleural type, which we are discussing here, accounts for three-fourths of it. The cancer affects the pleura, a protective sac that guards the lungs. This sac, which shores up the lungs and shields the lung cavity, is built of two layers. The inner lining or the visceral lining sheaths the lungs while the outer one guards the chest cavity and diaphragm. Pleural mesothelioma occurs initially in any one of these layers and may spread into the other one after a period of time. This cancerous growth is caused by asbestos fibers ensnared in the open spaces between mesothelium cells.

Once the particles settle down, they cause some chemical reactions that result in the cells dividing without any order. This process thickens the pleural cells causing a fluid build-up called pleural effusion. This excess fluid accumulation prevents easy breathing by compressing the lungs. Intermittent dry cough, coughing up blood, difficulty in swallowing, breath shortness, unexplainable weight loss, weakness, formation of lumps under the skin around the chest etc are the most visible testimonials of pleural mesothelioma.

The diagnosis of mesothelioma cancer is also very tricky because the very same symptoms herald the arrival of other illnesses like influenza and pneumonia too. Doctors examine the health history of the patient and put him through imaging tests like x-rays, MRI, CT scan and biopsy to determine the type of mesothelioma and its extent of infection.

Traditional treatments like surgery, medicated treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy are the most common cure employed against malignant pleural mesothelioma. If the situation is acute, two or all three so these are simultaneously to increase survival prospects. Even with all the aggressive treatments available, mesothelioma prognosis is not at the desired levels so far. The most important reason for this is that the cancer is mostly detected only in the last stages, but if detected early, there are bright chances of successful recovery.

The disease is caused by asbestos exposure at mostly workplaces and as such, the malignant pleural mesothelioma patient has the lawful rights to claim for damages from the company or individual who are responsible directly. The compensation amount awarded in such cases can sometimes be as big as several million dollars.

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Lung Cancer