Mesothelioma Treatment

Mesothelioma treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and a combination of these methods. The mesothelioma treatment recommended by the healthcare provider will depend on several different factors, including the stage of the cancer, the type of cancer cells, and the patient's general health. Mesothelioma treatment generally begins a few weeks after diagnosis, so there is time to get a second opinion in most cases.

 

Mesothelioma Treatment: An Overview

There are several different mesothelioma treatment options available for someone diagnosed with the disease.
 
Some factors that may influence the mesothelioma treatment options recommended include:
 
  • The stage of the cancer (see Mesothelioma Stages)
  • The type of mesothelioma cancer cells (how they look under a microscope)
  • The patient's age and general health
  • Whether the mesothelioma is newly diagnosed or has come back.
     
In general, mesothelioma treatment options include:
 
Your doctor can describe your mesothelioma treatment choices and the expected results of each. You and your doctor can work together to develop a treatment plan that meets your medical needs and personal values. Choosing the most appropriate mesothelioma treatment is a decision that ideally involves the patient, family, and healthcare team.
 
Treatment generally begins within a few weeks after the diagnosis. There will be time for patients to talk with the doctor about treatment choices, get a second opinion, and learn more about the disease.
 
(Mesothelioma Treatment Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD