DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Malignant Mesothelioma
A rare, aggressive cancer of the mesothelial cells lining the pleura (most common), peritoneum, or pericardium. Strongly associated with asbestos exposure with 20-50 year latency period. Median survival 12-21 months depending on type and stage.
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Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Biopsy
- 2Imaging (CT, MRI, PET)
- 3Tumor markers
- 4Genetic testing
- 5Endoscopy
- 6Blood tests
- 7Screening programs
Prognosis
Poor prognosis overall. Pleural mesothelioma has median survival 12-18 months with chemotherapy. Trimodality therapy (surgery, chemo, radiation) in select patients offers 20-25 months median survival. Peritoneal mesothelioma with cytoreductive surgery + HIPEC offers 40-60% 5-year survival in selected patients. Bevacizumab adds modest benefit to chemotherapy. Immunotherapy shows promise in trials. Early-stage disease (rarely diagnosed) has better outcomes.
Prevention
- Smoking cessation
- Sun protection
- Healthy diet
- Regular exercise
- Vaccination (HPV, HBV)
- Screening programs
- Limit alcohol
- Maintain healthy weight
Research Status
Immunotherapy (nivolumab/ipilimumab) approved first-line. Anti-mesothelin antibody-drug conjugates in trials. Surgery (EPP, P/D) for select early-stage patients. Asbestos ban in many countries reducing future incidence.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.cancer.gov
- https://www.who.int/cancer
- https://www.cancer.org
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.