Pleural mesothelioma may also be referred to as ICD-9 code 163, a disease category that represents malignant neoplasm of the pleura. Peritoneal mesothelioma may be called ICD-9 code 158, which accounts for malignant neoplasm of the retroperitoneum and peritoneum. Pericardial mesothelioma falls under the category ICD-9 code 164, which represents malignant neoplasm of the thymus, heart and mediastinum.
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Monday 26 April 2010
Malignant Mesothelioma Treatment
Regardless of the type of malignant mesothelioma a patient has, treatment options are available for all mesothelioma patients, though a patient’s response to different treatments will vary. The stage , or level of maturity of the cancer, as well as the patient’s general health are greatly considered when a doctor creates a treatment plan.
Common curative treatments, or treatments designed to remove cancer cells and cure the disease, for mesothelioma patients include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Chemotherapy and radiation treatments aim to kill cancerous cells and stop rapid cell division and growth. Though harmful cells are targeted, the treatments can also affect healthy cells. Patients may experience side effects such as nausea throughout treatment.
Palliative treatments, designed to increase a patient’s comfort and ease pain, may also be recommended. Patients may also wish to explore experimental treatments offered in the studies testing up-and-coming drugs or procedures called clinical trials.
Common curative treatments, or treatments designed to remove cancer cells and cure the disease, for mesothelioma patients include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Chemotherapy and radiation treatments aim to kill cancerous cells and stop rapid cell division and growth. Though harmful cells are targeted, the treatments can also affect healthy cells. Patients may experience side effects such as nausea throughout treatment.
Palliative treatments, designed to increase a patient’s comfort and ease pain, may also be recommended. Patients may also wish to explore experimental treatments offered in the studies testing up-and-coming drugs or procedures called clinical trials.
Malignant Mesothelioma Causes
In biological terms, malignant mesothelioma is divided into three types: epithelial, sarcomatoid and biphasic. These classifications pertain to the shape and structure of the cancer cells.
Between 50 to 70 percent of malignant mesothelioma cases are epithelial, approximately 20 to 35 percent are biphasic, and 7 to 20 percent are sarcomatoid. Epithelial cells are marked by their well-defined and uniform shape and can closely resemble cells of another form of cancer known as adenocarcinoma. Sarcomatoid cells display an elongated spindle shape, which tend to be irregular rather than uniform in shape, and the cells often overlap one another. Cells of the biphasic variety contain both epithelial and sarcomatoid cells, which form in groups of like cells rather than displaying a uniform mixture.
Diagnosing what type of malignant mesothelioma a patient has can be challenging. One contributing factor is that it can be difficult to differentiate mesothelioma from adenocarcinoma, a cancer originating in glandular tissue, on small tissue specimens.
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| Diagram of Malignant Mesothelioma Types. |
Diagnosing what type of malignant mesothelioma a patient has can be challenging. One contributing factor is that it can be difficult to differentiate mesothelioma from adenocarcinoma, a cancer originating in glandular tissue, on small tissue specimens.
Malignant Mesothelioma Types
Medical professionals divide malignant mesothelioma into various types depending on which area of the mesothelium is affected:
- Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of the cancer, affecting the lining of the lungs, called the pleura.
- Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second most common form of the cancer and develops in the lining of the abdomen, called the peritoneum.
- Pericardial mesothelioma develops in the membrane that surrounds the heart, called the pericardium.
- Testicular mesothelioma is the rarest form of the cancer and develops in the membranous lining surrounding the testicles, called the tunica vaginalis.
Malignant Mesothelioma Symptoms
Patients with malignant mesothelioma generally do not display any symptoms until 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos occurs. This is due to the long latency period (the amount of time it takes for a patient to demonstrate symptoms after initial exposure to a disease-causing agent) associated with mesothelioma. The symptoms of mesothelioma are very general and often resemble less serious conditions, which can make diagnosis difficult.
Symptoms vary depending on the type of mesothelioma a patient has, but the most common symptoms expressed by pleural mesothelioma patients include shortness of breath, chest pain and persistent cough. Peritoneal mesothelioma patients may display symptoms such as abdominal swelling, changes in bowel movement and development of lumps under the skin on the abdomen. Patients with pericardial mesothelioma may experience heart palpitations, chest pain, difficulty breathing and fever or night sweats. Testicular mesothelioma patients may notice testicular lumps.
Asbestos.com offers a complimentary informational packet personalized to a patient’s specific mesothelioma diagnosis. With information about the cancer, treatment options and top doctors, many patients and their loved ones find the packet to be a valuable resource. Click here for more information or to receive your complimentary packet overnight.
Symptoms vary depending on the type of mesothelioma a patient has, but the most common symptoms expressed by pleural mesothelioma patients include shortness of breath, chest pain and persistent cough. Peritoneal mesothelioma patients may display symptoms such as abdominal swelling, changes in bowel movement and development of lumps under the skin on the abdomen. Patients with pericardial mesothelioma may experience heart palpitations, chest pain, difficulty breathing and fever or night sweats. Testicular mesothelioma patients may notice testicular lumps.
Asbestos.com offers a complimentary informational packet personalized to a patient’s specific mesothelioma diagnosis. With information about the cancer, treatment options and top doctors, many patients and their loved ones find the packet to be a valuable resource. Click here for more information or to receive your complimentary packet overnight.
Malignant Mesothelioma
Malignant mesothelioma is a form of asbestos cancer that affects the thin tissue layer surrounding the body's internal organs, called the mesothelium. The cancer is almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure.
In an effort to help patients understand mesothelioma, Asbestos.com offers a complimentary packet that contains treatment information tailored to your specific diagnosis. The packet also covers the nation's top mesothelioma doctors and cancer centers, as well as financial assistance options to help cover medical costs. To receive your packet in the mail, please enter your information below.
In an effort to help patients understand mesothelioma, Asbestos.com offers a complimentary packet that contains treatment information tailored to your specific diagnosis. The packet also covers the nation's top mesothelioma doctors and cancer centers, as well as financial assistance options to help cover medical costs. To receive your packet in the mail, please enter your information below.
Varying Latency Periods
A number of studies have been conducted on the specifics of the length of latency periods among those exposed to asbestos.
In the case of mesothelioma, evidence has indicated that high exposure for short periods of time might be more damaging than low exposure for many years. For example, Deborah Reeve, a New York City paramedic and first responder at the site of the World Trade Center attacks in 2001, passed away from mesothelioma in 2006, just five years after her exposure to asbestos from the events on September 11. Deborah had symptoms of the disease as early as 2003 and was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2004.
Numerous studies on asbestosis agree that more than 90 percent of individuals who were exposed to asbestos for 40 years or more will develop the disease. For those who worked with the toxic mineral for 20-30 years, the rate is about 75 percent. Those who experienced 10-19 years of exposure have an incidence level of about 10 to 15 percent. These numbers may also vary according to the level of asbestos someone is exposed to on a daily basis.
For example, shipbuilders of the mid-20th century were nearly always surrounded by asbestos as were many construction workers. Those groups have tended to develop asbestosis sooner than those who worked in other industries where the levels may not have been as high.
Patients concerned about the latency period associated with mesothelioma and the possibility of developing the cancer may be interested to read more about mesothelioma symptoms.
Sources:
In the case of mesothelioma, evidence has indicated that high exposure for short periods of time might be more damaging than low exposure for many years. For example, Deborah Reeve, a New York City paramedic and first responder at the site of the World Trade Center attacks in 2001, passed away from mesothelioma in 2006, just five years after her exposure to asbestos from the events on September 11. Deborah had symptoms of the disease as early as 2003 and was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2004.
Numerous studies on asbestosis agree that more than 90 percent of individuals who were exposed to asbestos for 40 years or more will develop the disease. For those who worked with the toxic mineral for 20-30 years, the rate is about 75 percent. Those who experienced 10-19 years of exposure have an incidence level of about 10 to 15 percent. These numbers may also vary according to the level of asbestos someone is exposed to on a daily basis.
For example, shipbuilders of the mid-20th century were nearly always surrounded by asbestos as were many construction workers. Those groups have tended to develop asbestosis sooner than those who worked in other industries where the levels may not have been as high.
Patients concerned about the latency period associated with mesothelioma and the possibility of developing the cancer may be interested to read more about mesothelioma symptoms.
Sources:
mesothelioma Latency Period
The term latency period is used to describe the period of time between exposure to a potential disease-causing agent and the time the disease becomes apparent. According to most experts, in the case of mesothelioma the latency period ranges from 20 to 50 years after initial exposure to asbestos occurred, though there have been instances when the time period was shorter or longer.
Due to the long latency period associated with the cancer, those exposed to asbestos during the 1950s, '60s and '70s are beginning to demonstrate mesothelioma symptoms today, decades after they were exposed to asbestos.
Due to the long latency period associated with the cancer, those exposed to asbestos during the 1950s, '60s and '70s are beginning to demonstrate mesothelioma symptoms today, decades after they were exposed to asbestos.
Living During the Latency Period
While no one should spend their days dwelling on the fact that they could someday develop an asbestos-related disease, there are some things that can be done to aid in early diagnosis if mesothelioma is indeed present.
The most notable development in the last few years is the mesothelioma blood test known as Mesomark. Approved by the FDA in 2007, this simple test measures a particular cancer biomarker and can catch mesothelioma in the early stages of development. The blood test is not available everywhere but if you wish to undergo testing, asking your doctor where you may take advantage of the test may aid in early detection.
Those exposed to asbestos run the risk of developing asbestosis or mesothelioma and may wish to schedule yearly chest X-rays to check for any suspicious signs of disease. If a doctor determines there may be a concern after the X-ray, further imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs may be recommended. A biopsy may also be requested to test for the presence of cancerous cells.
Asbestos.com offers additional information about mesothelioma diagnosis, treatment and top doctors though a complimentary comprehensive packet. Please click here to receive your copy.
The most notable development in the last few years is the mesothelioma blood test known as Mesomark. Approved by the FDA in 2007, this simple test measures a particular cancer biomarker and can catch mesothelioma in the early stages of development. The blood test is not available everywhere but if you wish to undergo testing, asking your doctor where you may take advantage of the test may aid in early detection.
Those exposed to asbestos run the risk of developing asbestosis or mesothelioma and may wish to schedule yearly chest X-rays to check for any suspicious signs of disease. If a doctor determines there may be a concern after the X-ray, further imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs may be recommended. A biopsy may also be requested to test for the presence of cancerous cells.
Asbestos.com offers additional information about mesothelioma diagnosis, treatment and top doctors though a complimentary comprehensive packet. Please click here to receive your copy.
ncreased susceptibility to infection. Chemotherapy Medications for Mesothelioma Patients
Today's most commonly used chemotherapy medication for mesothelioma is Alimta. Currently, this drug is the only FDA-approved medication specifically designed for the treatment of malignant mesothelioma when surgery is not an option. It is generally used in combination with another chemotherapy drug called cisplatin, a platinum-based drug. Together, the two have shown promise in prolonging and improving the quality of life of mesothelioma patients. Other chemotherapy drugs sometimes used for mesothelioma treatment include carboplatin, onconase, gemcitabine, and navelbine.
Other Medications for Mesothelioma Patients
Most mesothelioma patients' drug regimens are not limited to chemotherapy medications. It is often necessary to take other medications to help combat the symptoms and side effects of the disease. Those who take the time to find the right combination of pain medications indicate a marked difference in their quality of life. However, patients should never take pain medications without consulting their doctor. In some cases, doctors will also recommend the use of anti-nausea drugs for chemotherapy patients. Anti-nausea drugs for nausea include Compazine, Torecan, Zofran and Kytril.
Mesothelioma & Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy medications have been used to treat cancer since the 1950s. Many of the older ones are obsolete and have been replaced by newer, more successful drugs. An oncologist will determine which chemotherapy medication is best for you. In addition to chemotherapy, surgery or radiation may also be recommended.
Chemotherapy can be administered at a hospital, doctor's office, or in a clinic setting that caters only to cancer patients. Such treatment is most commonly administered intravenously through a catheter or directly into a vein. Some chemotherapy medications come in pill or liquid form and will be swallowed under the supervision of a doctor. Others can be taken at home following the strict instructions of a medical professional.
The dosage of the medication will be determined by your doctor and may include daily treatments for a specific time. Though chemotherapy can be very helpful, it can carry a number of side effects. Some mesothelioma patients will experience none at all while others may be shouldered with several uncomfortable side effects. These include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, hair loss, bruising or bleeding, and an increased susceptibility to infection.
Chemotherapy can be administered at a hospital, doctor's office, or in a clinic setting that caters only to cancer patients. Such treatment is most commonly administered intravenously through a catheter or directly into a vein. Some chemotherapy medications come in pill or liquid form and will be swallowed under the supervision of a doctor. Others can be taken at home following the strict instructions of a medical professional.
The dosage of the medication will be determined by your doctor and may include daily treatments for a specific time. Though chemotherapy can be very helpful, it can carry a number of side effects. Some mesothelioma patients will experience none at all while others may be shouldered with several uncomfortable side effects. These include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, hair loss, bruising or bleeding, and an increased susceptibility to infection.
Mesothelioma Drugs
A diagnosis of mesothelioma will normally be followed by several discussions with your oncologist. Such topics of discussion will cover prognosis and treatment options to battle the disease. More often than not, the course of treatment can include a variety of mesothelioma medications.
Who is Eligible for Heated Chemotherapy?
Heated chemotherapy is only a treatment option for patients with peritoneal mesothelioma. Those coping with mesothelioma of the pleura or pericardium will need to explore other treatment options with their cancer doctor. Patients eligible for heated chemotherapy will be informed by their doctor and will need to discuss treatment options extensively before determining whether this is a good option.
Advantages of Heated Chemotherapy
There are two particularly important features of heated chemotherapy that make this a superior alternative to standard chemotherapy.
First, the chemotherapeutic medications are applied directly to the affected site. This means the medications are in direct contact with tissues that are affected by mesothelioma. In traditional chemotherapy, the patient is treated with chemotherapeutic medications intravenously and the patient's entire body is affected by the medications. Injecting chemotherapeutic agents directly into the peritoneum increases their concentration at the cancer site and causes less serious side effects than traditional chemotherapy treatments.
The second important feature is the heating of the medications to the approximate temperature of the human body. Heating the chemotherapeutic agents increases their ability to penetrate tissues. This is vital because traditional chemotherapy treatments do not always effectively penetrate dense tumors.
First, the chemotherapeutic medications are applied directly to the affected site. This means the medications are in direct contact with tissues that are affected by mesothelioma. In traditional chemotherapy, the patient is treated with chemotherapeutic medications intravenously and the patient's entire body is affected by the medications. Injecting chemotherapeutic agents directly into the peritoneum increases their concentration at the cancer site and causes less serious side effects than traditional chemotherapy treatments.
The second important feature is the heating of the medications to the approximate temperature of the human body. Heating the chemotherapeutic agents increases their ability to penetrate tissues. This is vital because traditional chemotherapy treatments do not always effectively penetrate dense tumors.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma & Heated Chemotherapy
Heated chemotherapy for peritoneal mesothelioma, which is also known as heated intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy, is administered in a very different fashion than most other types of chemotherapy.
During the heated chemotherapy procedure, a patient is treated with chemotherapeutic medications in liquid form that are administered directly into the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity). Before this can take place, patients undergo surgery that removes as much of the tumors growing in the peritoneum as possible.
Once the surgical procedure has been completed, chemotherapy can begin. During this part of the treatment, the patient's peritoneum is permeated with heated chemotherapeutic medications to expose all organs and tissues within the peritoneum in a uniform fashion (this ensures all affected organs receive treatment).
The chemotherapeutic medications used in the procedure are heated to a temperature between 44 - 46 °C (111-114 F°), and the intraperitoneal environment is maintained at a temperature of approximately 42 - 43 °C (107-109 F°). The chemotherapeutic fluid is perfused in the peritoneum for one to two hours and then drained from the operation site.
During the heated chemotherapy procedure, a patient is treated with chemotherapeutic medications in liquid form that are administered directly into the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity). Before this can take place, patients undergo surgery that removes as much of the tumors growing in the peritoneum as possible.
Once the surgical procedure has been completed, chemotherapy can begin. During this part of the treatment, the patient's peritoneum is permeated with heated chemotherapeutic medications to expose all organs and tissues within the peritoneum in a uniform fashion (this ensures all affected organs receive treatment).
The chemotherapeutic medications used in the procedure are heated to a temperature between 44 - 46 °C (111-114 F°), and the intraperitoneal environment is maintained at a temperature of approximately 42 - 43 °C (107-109 F°). The chemotherapeutic fluid is perfused in the peritoneum for one to two hours and then drained from the operation site.
Heated Chemotherapy & Mesothelioma
intravenously, typically once a week or once every three or four weeks (length of time is determined by the patient's physician). There are several common chemotherapeutic medications that may be used to treat mesothelioma, including Alimta, Cisplatin, and Carboplatin.
However, a new form of chemotherapy is being tested in clinical trials involving mesothelioma patients. This treatment, known as heated chemotherapy, is showing some promise for the treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma, a form of mesothelioma that attacks the protective lining around the abdomen. (Due to the nature of the treatment, it has been deemed inappropriate for pleural and pericardial mesothelioma.)
This treatment was developed by Paul Sugarbaker at the Washington Cancer Institute, and is commonly referred to as the Sugarbaker technique.
However, a new form of chemotherapy is being tested in clinical trials involving mesothelioma patients. This treatment, known as heated chemotherapy, is showing some promise for the treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma, a form of mesothelioma that attacks the protective lining around the abdomen. (Due to the nature of the treatment, it has been deemed inappropriate for pleural and pericardial mesothelioma.)
This treatment was developed by Paul Sugarbaker at the Washington Cancer Institute, and is commonly referred to as the Sugarbaker technique.
Evaluating Chemotherapy Options
Deciding which chemotherapy option is the best treatment for specific mesothelioma cases depends on a number of factors, including the type of mesothelioma, the stage of the disease, and other treatment being administered. Factors such as overall physical health and age are also taken into consideration when detailing a chemotherapy treatment plan.
Currently more than 100 chemotherapy drugs are on the market but only a handful are deemed appropriate for fighting mesothelioma. In most cases, doctors treating mesothelioma patients recommend combination therapy - the tandem use of two different chemotherapy drugs. These combinations have been proven to be the most successful in the fight against mesothelioma. .
All treatment options will be thoroughly discussed with the patient's cancer doctor before a decision is made. Patients should provide a full disclosure of their medical history, including details of any prescriptions and over-the-counter medications being taken to ensure treatment is administered with the most appropriate chemotherapeutic agent.
Currently, the most common chemotherapy drugs for mesothelioma include Alimta (the only FDA-approved drug specifically designed for the treatment of mesothelioma), Cisplatin, Carboplatin, Onconase, Gemcitabine, and Navelbine. The medications are usually administered conventionally (by IV or pill form), or may be used in a newer treatment method called heated chemotherapy.
Currently more than 100 chemotherapy drugs are on the market but only a handful are deemed appropriate for fighting mesothelioma. In most cases, doctors treating mesothelioma patients recommend combination therapy - the tandem use of two different chemotherapy drugs. These combinations have been proven to be the most successful in the fight against mesothelioma. .
All treatment options will be thoroughly discussed with the patient's cancer doctor before a decision is made. Patients should provide a full disclosure of their medical history, including details of any prescriptions and over-the-counter medications being taken to ensure treatment is administered with the most appropriate chemotherapeutic agent.
Currently, the most common chemotherapy drugs for mesothelioma include Alimta (the only FDA-approved drug specifically designed for the treatment of mesothelioma), Cisplatin, Carboplatin, Onconase, Gemcitabine, and Navelbine. The medications are usually administered conventionally (by IV or pill form), or may be used in a newer treatment method called heated chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy Cure Mesothelioma?
Currently, there is no proven cure for mesothelioma. However, chemotherapy can help control symptoms and shrink tumors and is largely used as a palliative measure to help improve the patient's quality of life. The development of combination treatments has proved successful in achieving longer survival rates and researchers continue to look for new ways to fight this aggressive disease.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may find solace in reading “Lean on Me – Cancer through a Carer’s Eyes,” a touching story by Lorraine Kember who recounts her husband’s journey with mesothelioma in this emotional and informative book. For your complimentary copy, please use this form or visit the “Support Book” link to the right for more information.
Sources:
with the latest clinical trials, survivor stories,
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If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may find solace in reading “Lean on Me – Cancer through a Carer’s Eyes,” a touching story by Lorraine Kember who recounts her husband’s journey with mesothelioma in this emotional and informative book. For your complimentary copy, please use this form or visit the “Support Book” link to the right for more information.
Sources:
- Dodson, R. and Hammar, S. Asbestos: Risk Assessment, Epidemiology, and Health Effects. Taylor & Francis: Boca Raton. 2006.
- Galateau-Salle, Francoise. Pathology of Malignant Mesothelioma. Springer-Verlag London Limited: London. 2006.
- Pass, I., Vogelzang, N., Carbone, M. Malignant Mesothelioma: Advances in Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Transitional Therapies. Springer: New York. 2005.
- http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_4X_Chemotherapy_29.asp?sitearea=
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mesothelioma/DS00779/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs
Nutrition & Dieting for Cancer
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" Mike Dews, 9-Year Mesothelioma Survivor"
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Mesothelioma Chemotherapy
The term "chemotherapy" may be used to describe any drugs used in the treatment of disease but the word is commonly used to refer to medications utilized in the treatment of cancer. The term refers to treating disease with chemicals that kill cells.
Generally, chemotherapy drugs work by targeting specific processes in cells that are undergoing rapid division and growth, preventing cell division, resulting in the death of the cancerous cells. Unfortunately, these drugs are not highly specific, and in addition to killing cancerous cells, chemotherapeutic drugs also kill healthy cells, such as those involved in hair growth.
In terms of mesothelioma treatment, several options for chemotherapy are available. Most chemotherapy drugs have specific side effects such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss, and increased vulnerability to infection. Any symptoms experienced while undergoing treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs should be reported to the doctor.
Many mesothelioma patients will consider chemotherapy as a treatment option. Understanding the various chemotherapy options and available treatments often helps patients and their loved ones make the best decision for their personal situation. We offer a comprehensive packet detailing treatment and chemotherapy options and information about the side effects of the treatment, providing patients and family members with the most current information available. Click here to receive this packet overnight.
In terms of mesothelioma treatment, several options for chemotherapy are available. Most chemotherapy drugs have specific side effects such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss, and increased vulnerability to infection. Any symptoms experienced while undergoing treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs should be reported to the doctor.
Many mesothelioma patients will consider chemotherapy as a treatment option. Understanding the various chemotherapy options and available treatments often helps patients and their loved ones make the best decision for their personal situation. We offer a comprehensive packet detailing treatment and chemotherapy options and information about the side effects of the treatment, providing patients and family members with the most current information available. Click here to receive this packet overnight.
Mesothelioma Hope
Many patients and their loved ones may enjoy reading "Lean on Me - Cancer through a Carer's Eyes," a touching story by Lorraine Kember about her husband's battle with mesothelioma. Reading about the emotions the Kember family experienced may help provide insight into the road ahead for those newly diagnosed. To receive a complimentary copy of this book
Mesothelioma Nutrition
Without a current cure for mesothelioma, patients battling the cancer often want to fight it in every way possible. Nutritious eating is a wonderful way to instill mesothelioma hope and equip the immune system with positive fuel. The food and nutrients that we put into our bodies greatly affect our ability to heal and fight disease. Eating a balanced diet consisting of whole grains, proteins, dairy, fruits and vegetables enables the body to function properly and adequately fight infection and illness. Eating nutritious food while actively fighting mesothelioma through treatment may not cure the cancer, but fighting the disease from every angle will give patients the best possible outlook.
Mesothelioma patients undergoing various treatments may have additional nutritional concerns. Nutrition during chemotherapy is extremely important as the drugs used during treatment kill cancer cells, but simultaneously affect healthy cells as well, leaving the body in a weakened state. Many patients may experience side effects from the treatment, including nausea and diarrhea. Mild flavored foods such as whole grain toast may settle the stomach and be easier to keep down during treatment. To combat constipation, patients should select foods with a large amount of fiber such as apples, oatmeal and broccoli. Ensuring adequate protein consumption is also important and many patients include egg whites, beans, milk and lean meats in their daily diet.
Patients undergoing radiation therapy may also experience side effects such as vomiting and loss of appetite. Since radiation can zap energy, it is important to eat nutritious foods with healthy calories to fuel the body properly. Limiting the amount of salt, alcohol and caffeine ingested during treatment is also very important. Speaking with a doctor or a nutritionist can help a patient receive guidance about proper nutrition and recommended foods to eat or avoid during radiation.
It is also important for those recovering from cancer to be mindful of their diet. Additional information about nutrition and cancer recovery can be found in the Mesothelioma Cancer and Nutrition section of our Web site.
Sources:
Mesothelioma patients undergoing various treatments may have additional nutritional concerns. Nutrition during chemotherapy is extremely important as the drugs used during treatment kill cancer cells, but simultaneously affect healthy cells as well, leaving the body in a weakened state. Many patients may experience side effects from the treatment, including nausea and diarrhea. Mild flavored foods such as whole grain toast may settle the stomach and be easier to keep down during treatment. To combat constipation, patients should select foods with a large amount of fiber such as apples, oatmeal and broccoli. Ensuring adequate protein consumption is also important and many patients include egg whites, beans, milk and lean meats in their daily diet.
Patients undergoing radiation therapy may also experience side effects such as vomiting and loss of appetite. Since radiation can zap energy, it is important to eat nutritious foods with healthy calories to fuel the body properly. Limiting the amount of salt, alcohol and caffeine ingested during treatment is also very important. Speaking with a doctor or a nutritionist can help a patient receive guidance about proper nutrition and recommended foods to eat or avoid during radiation.
It is also important for those recovering from cancer to be mindful of their diet. Additional information about nutrition and cancer recovery can be found in the Mesothelioma Cancer and Nutrition section of our Web site.
Sources:
- Galateau-Salle, Francoise. Pathology of Malignant Mesothelioma. Springer-Verlag London Limited: London. 2006.
- Pass, I., Vogelzang, N., Carbone, M. Malignant Mesothelioma: Advances in Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Transitional Therapies. Springer: New York. 2005.
- http://www.cancer.gov/cancerinfo/pdq/supportivecare/nutrition
- http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_1X_What_are_the_key_ statistics_for_malignant_mesothelioma_29.asp?sitearea=
- http://www.cancer.org/downloads/PUB/DOCS/SECTION28/89.pdf
- http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/home
- http://www.impmeso.org/
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mesothelioma/DS00779/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/print/mesothelioma/DS00779/DSECTION=all&METHOD=print
Mesothelioma Prognosis and Survival
Though many patients and their loved ones often get discouraged if the prognosis following a mesothelioma diagnosis comes back poor, it is important to remember that a number of patients have survived much longer than their initial prognosis suggested. Prognosis is generally poor because most patients do not exhibit symptoms of mesothelioma until 20 to 50 years after initial exposure to asbestos occurred, allowing the cancer to develop and mature in the body. The development of tests to aid in early diagnosis, such as the Mesomark blood test, will hopefully help mesothelioma patients receive treatment in the earlier stages of the cancer. Early diagnosis results in greater treatment options available to mesothelioma patients which can greatly improve a patient's prognosis.
Research reveals that mesothelioma patients who have survived for many years with the disease have commonly participated in some sort of therapy to enhance their immune system. Participation in clinical trials in immunology and other alternative therapies relating to the immune system have yielded positive results in some instances. Researchers theorize that mesothelioma likely results from immune suppression and mesothelioma survivors that participated in treatments to improve the immune system may have experienced positive results because of this participation.
Research reveals that mesothelioma patients who have survived for many years with the disease have commonly participated in some sort of therapy to enhance their immune system. Participation in clinical trials in immunology and other alternative therapies relating to the immune system have yielded positive results in some instances. Researchers theorize that mesothelioma likely results from immune suppression and mesothelioma survivors that participated in treatments to improve the immune system may have experienced positive results because of this participation.
Mesothelioma Cure
A mesothelioma cure seemed almost unattainable not long ago, but this negative outlook is beginning to change. Doctors and cancer specialists are constantly working towards the development of a cure and instilling mesothelioma hope in patients. During this search to find a cure for mesothelioma, stories of survival continue to surface, renewing hope and determination.
Mesothelioma Clinical Trials
any patients elect to participate in clinical trials as a way of building mesothelioma hope. Clinical trials are conducted to test up-and-coming treatments and medications before they are released and recommended to the public as a safe and effective way to treat an illness. The three stages of clinical trials test new drugs extensively, from the correct dosage required to the effectiveness of the drug. To participate in a clinical trial, a patient must first qualify for the study and meet specific qualifications.
Clinical trials are imperative in the search for a mesothelioma cure. As results and information are gathered from a study, the knowledge gained helps medical professionals come closer to the discovery of a cure. Each successful clinical trial renews mesothelioma hope for all patients around the world.
Clinical trials are imperative in the search for a mesothelioma cure. As results and information are gathered from a study, the knowledge gained helps medical professionals come closer to the discovery of a cure. Each successful clinical trial renews mesothelioma hope for all patients around the world.
Mesothelioma Treatments
There are several types of treatment available for patients with mesothelioma, some recommended more frequently than others. The most commonly used treatments are surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. In addition, some experimental treatments are becoming more widely used, or are showing some encouraging results in clinical trials. These treatments include photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, and immunotherapy, among others.
In an effort to help patients understand mesothelioma, Asbestos.com offers a complimentary packet that contains treatment information tailored to your specific diagnosis. The packet also covers the nation's top mesothelioma doctors and cancer centers, as well as financial assistance options to help cover medical costs. To receive your packet in the mail, please enter your information below.
In an effort to help patients understand mesothelioma, Asbestos.com offers a complimentary packet that contains treatment information tailored to your specific diagnosis. The packet also covers the nation's top mesothelioma doctors and cancer centers, as well as financial assistance options to help cover medical costs. To receive your packet in the mail, please enter your information below.
Wednesday 21 April 2010
Heroes - The Art of Deception Season 4 Episode 17
H.R.G. enacts his plan to take down the carnival; looking to understand his desire to make a human connection, Sylar visits Matt; Peter warns Emma about Samuel's intentions.Source: NBC
Heroes - Pass/Fail Season 4 Episode 16
Hiro subconsciously deals with some of his past decisions as his brain tumor worsens; Claire receives an unexpected visit from Sylar; Samuel's plan to impress Vanessa takes a frightening turn.Source: NBC
Heroes - Close to You Season 4 Episode 15
Noah recruits Matt in an attempt to find Samuel's one weakness. Ando and Hiro try to rescue Mohinder from the asylum, while Peter discovers Emma's destiny.
Chuck - Chuck Versus the Wookiee Season 1 Episode 4
Chuck is put up to an unusual task when a hot CIA woman requests help with a mission. Upon seeing her, Morgan asks Chuck to set her up with him. While working on the mission, Chuck discovers that a million dollar diamond being stashed in Malibu is being used to financially back terrorists.
Friday 2 April 2010
Greek - All Children... Grow Up Season 3 Episode 20
The gang returns to Myrtle Beach for spring break; seniors consider their futures.
Greek - The First Last Season 3 Episode 19
A golf tournament will determine the top fraternity on campus; Katherine agrees to bring back the Greek Goddesses Pageant; Calvin and Grant feud over where to spend spring break
Greek - Camp Buy Me Love Season 3 Episode 18
Tension increases between Casey and Cappie when his parents suggest a camping trip
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