Mesothelioma (malignant)

Treatment:

Treatment attempts are made but are usually unsuccessful in curing the disease. Surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy may be tried. Supportive treatment such as pain relief and oxygen may help to relieve the symptoms.

The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See cancer - support group and lung disease - support group.

Expectations (prognosis):

The median survival time is 8 to 14 months, with about 75% of the patients dying within a year of diagnosis.

Complications:

• rapid spread of tumor to other organs

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms are suggestive of malignant mesothelioma.