Treatment Options For Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a deadly cancer that is directly linked to asbestos exposure. By the time this cancer is diagnosed the disease is usually well advanced. Signs and symptoms may not appear until 20 to 60 years after being exposed to asbestos. If diagnosed with Mesothelioma, it is imperative to become informed about the different forms of Mesothelioma treatment due to the aggressive form of this disease.
Mesothelioma attacks the mesothelium or the protective lining that covers and protects many of the body's internal organs. One form of this deadly cancer is Peritoneal Mesothelioma. It invades the peritoneum or the membranous lining that houses the stomach, liver, spleen, pancreas and intestines.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma accounts for less than a quarter of all Mesothelioma cases. It is the second most common form of Mesothelioma after Pleural Mesothelioma. Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma include, but are not limited to, abdominal pain, weakness, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal swelling and bowel obstruction.
In order for proper Mesothelioma treatment to begin, several factors must first be taken into consideration. Details such as the extent of the cancer, the patient's overall health, past medical history and age, should be evaluated. These details need to be taken into account to determine the best Mesothelioma treatment for an individual diagnosed with Peritoneal Mesothelioma.
The most common forms of treatment for an individual diagnosed with Peritoneal Mesothelioma are surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and palliative therapies. Surgery may be performed to remove part of the lining and tissue from the abdomen, depending on the advancement of the cancer and the size and location of the tumor(s).
Another form of Mesothelioma treatment for Peritoneal Mesothelioma is radiation therapy. Immense energy x-rays are used for the purpose of shrinking tumors. Radiation can be administered either externally or internally. Externally, a machine is placed outside the body to emit radiation to the source of the cancer. A source of radiation can also be internally placed on the affected area in the hope of destroying cancerous tissue.
Chemotherapy is another type of Mesothelioma treatment used to combat Peritoneal Mesothelioma. This type of treatment uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. These can be given either in tablet form or intravenously. The chemotherapy drugs enter the blood stream and kill off cancerous cells as it makes its way through the body.
Palliative therapy is also used as a form of Mesothelioma treatment. Ascites, or fluid accumulation, often takes place in the abdomen when an individual suffers from Peritoneal Mesothelioma. To relieve pressure and to make the patient more comfortable fluid is extracted by use of needles and suction.
Once your diagnosis is confirmed and you have begun treatment, it is imperative that you seek the advice of an attorney who specializes in asbestos-related illness. If a past employer negligently exposed you to asbestos, you are most likely to be entitled to a monetary award to cover your medical bills, your pain and suffering, and even punitive damages against a negligent employer. Peritoneal Mesothelioma is a very difficult cancer to treat; you can rely on your attorney to act in your best interests.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma is a deadly cancer that is attributed to asbestos exposure. If diagnosed, it is imperative to be informed of all treatment options. As more research is performed in the area of Mesothelioma treatment, other ways to combat this deadly disease will become available.
Kamis, 28 Juli 2011
Treatment Does Nothing for Mesothelioma Cancer Victims
Treatment Does Nothing for Mesothelioma Cancer Victims
Chemotherapy is often the number one form of treatment for many patients suffering from cancer. However, it was recently discovered that chemotherapy is essentially ineffective on certain types of mesothelioma, such as malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). The study was published in a UK medical journal.
The study was completed by Nicholas J. Vogelzang, MD, director of the Nevada Cancer Institute in Las Vegas, and was released in May 2008.
Chemotherapy Ineffective Mesothelioma Treatment
The study found that chemotherapy not only did not offer any improvement among mesothelioma patients but was found to have no significant impact whatsoever on survival rate of victims.
According to the study, the median average of survival rate between victims who received an active symptom control (ASC) versus those who received the same treatment plus chemotherapy was less than a month apart, suggesting no beneficial impact, although, the study did suggest further investigation into treatments of ASC and chemotherapy were likely required.
What is Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma?
MPM has a poor prognosis, as stated in the 2007 issue of The Oncologist, with only a few months of life expectancy. Breathlessness and difficulty breathing are side effects of the cancer, which is considered an aggressive form of lung cancer.
The condition is also difficult to treat because of the high rate of misdiagnosis among patients. Unfortunately, the incidence of this condition has also been on the rise, and experts speculate that through the next 10 to 20 years, the number will only increase.
Mesothelioma Causes
For years, mesothelioma has been linked to the inhalation of vermiculite asbestos fibers and dust. Vermiculite is a mineral that was heavily mined. Vermiculite mines around the world and flourished in areas such as Australia, Africa and the United States.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently in charge of regulating and issuing guidelines for the safe removal and cleanup of asbestos in homes and building throughout the country. However, there is a large number, although estimates are not clear, of structures with asbestos-ridden insulation currently in the United States and improper exposure to such could increase risk of developing a form of mesothelioma.
Additional Malignant Mesothelioma Treatment Options
While the unfortunate truth is that malignant pleural mesothelioma is usually fatal among victims, there are a few treatment options for managing the disease, however these often depend upon the symptoms and stage of the illness.
Surgery is the most common mesothelioma treatment, although a study released in July 2007 in The Oncologist emphasized that the role of surgery in managing MPM is debatable. However, the three main surgical techniques used to manage MPM are pleurodesis, pleurectomy/decorication (P/D) and extrapleural pnemonectomy (EPP).
The study noted that as of yet, there have been no controlled studies determining whether one surgical procedure is better than another. Of the surgical procedures, the P/D and EPP methods aim for local control of the disease and while P/D has a limited morbidity, EPP has between 1.5 to 5 percent mortality rates.
It is often recommended that individuals who suffer from this type of mesothelioma or any form of mesothelioma locate an experienced mesothelioma attorney. Because of the high costs and technical difficulties associated with mesothelioma treatment, a mesothelioma lawsuit may potentially offer relief in the form of monetary compensation, especially since mesothelioma is considered by some to have been highly preventable.
------
For more on malignant pleural mesothelioma, visit http://mesothelioma.legalview.com/. Additionally, use the LegalView homepage at http://www.LegalView.com and peruse other issues of interest such as the Digitek digoxin recall or the Chantix risks.
Chemotherapy is often the number one form of treatment for many patients suffering from cancer. However, it was recently discovered that chemotherapy is essentially ineffective on certain types of mesothelioma, such as malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). The study was published in a UK medical journal.
The study was completed by Nicholas J. Vogelzang, MD, director of the Nevada Cancer Institute in Las Vegas, and was released in May 2008.
Chemotherapy Ineffective Mesothelioma Treatment
The study found that chemotherapy not only did not offer any improvement among mesothelioma patients but was found to have no significant impact whatsoever on survival rate of victims.
According to the study, the median average of survival rate between victims who received an active symptom control (ASC) versus those who received the same treatment plus chemotherapy was less than a month apart, suggesting no beneficial impact, although, the study did suggest further investigation into treatments of ASC and chemotherapy were likely required.
What is Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma?
MPM has a poor prognosis, as stated in the 2007 issue of The Oncologist, with only a few months of life expectancy. Breathlessness and difficulty breathing are side effects of the cancer, which is considered an aggressive form of lung cancer.
The condition is also difficult to treat because of the high rate of misdiagnosis among patients. Unfortunately, the incidence of this condition has also been on the rise, and experts speculate that through the next 10 to 20 years, the number will only increase.
Mesothelioma Causes
For years, mesothelioma has been linked to the inhalation of vermiculite asbestos fibers and dust. Vermiculite is a mineral that was heavily mined. Vermiculite mines around the world and flourished in areas such as Australia, Africa and the United States.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently in charge of regulating and issuing guidelines for the safe removal and cleanup of asbestos in homes and building throughout the country. However, there is a large number, although estimates are not clear, of structures with asbestos-ridden insulation currently in the United States and improper exposure to such could increase risk of developing a form of mesothelioma.
Additional Malignant Mesothelioma Treatment Options
While the unfortunate truth is that malignant pleural mesothelioma is usually fatal among victims, there are a few treatment options for managing the disease, however these often depend upon the symptoms and stage of the illness.
Surgery is the most common mesothelioma treatment, although a study released in July 2007 in The Oncologist emphasized that the role of surgery in managing MPM is debatable. However, the three main surgical techniques used to manage MPM are pleurodesis, pleurectomy/decorication (P/D) and extrapleural pnemonectomy (EPP).
The study noted that as of yet, there have been no controlled studies determining whether one surgical procedure is better than another. Of the surgical procedures, the P/D and EPP methods aim for local control of the disease and while P/D has a limited morbidity, EPP has between 1.5 to 5 percent mortality rates.
It is often recommended that individuals who suffer from this type of mesothelioma or any form of mesothelioma locate an experienced mesothelioma attorney. Because of the high costs and technical difficulties associated with mesothelioma treatment, a mesothelioma lawsuit may potentially offer relief in the form of monetary compensation, especially since mesothelioma is considered by some to have been highly preventable.
------
For more on malignant pleural mesothelioma, visit http://mesothelioma.legalview.com/. Additionally, use the LegalView homepage at http://www.LegalView.com and peruse other issues of interest such as the Digitek digoxin recall or the Chantix risks.
The Causes and Treatment Of Bunions
The Causes and Treatment Of Bunions
One of the most common foot conditions causing pain is found near the big toe joint. This pain is worsened in shoes, and sometimes may even be present when walking barefoot.' The big toe is shifted over toward (or even over or under) the second toe, and there is a bump or enlargement of bone on the side of the foot.' This condition is called a bunion, and symptoms can run a range from no pain, simple discomfort, to severe pain.''The medical name is hallux abductovalgus, which describes the way the great toe angles and rotates over towards the second toe. The size of the bunion is not always the more significant medical finding, as some people have severe bunions which cause no pain at all, and some people have small bunions which are so painful they can hardly wear shoes. 'This type of foot pain can be sharp, throbbing, aching, or even burning. 'Most people with this condition have pain directly against the side of the foot at the prominent joint (the bump of bone). 'It can also be felt along the big toe, or underneath the ball of the foot near the joint. 'This pain usually is much worse when in tight shoes, although in advanced cases pain is felt whenever walking at all, shoes or not. ' Even bending the toe passively can cause discomfort in those cases. 'Burning or tingling and numbness can be felt if the bunion stretches the nerve that runs along side it. People of all ages can have bunions, as it is also seen in kids.''It is a misconception that only older people get bunions, and the presence of bunions is certainly not a sign of aging, as some people are simply born with them.
Bunions are a complex foot deformity of both bone and the soft tissue that attaches to the bone.' Popular opinion not withstanding, bunions are NOT caused by tight shoe use.' One's feet have not been 'moldable' since early childhood, and a tight shoe will not alter the position of one's bones.' However, a tight shoe can aggravate a bunion, and a previously non-painful bunion can suddenly become painful.' This develops as inflammation sets into the tissues surrounding the great toe joint. Shoe pressure can aggravate the tissues on the side of the foot to produce this pressure. Bunions are usually inherited from one's parents or grandparents and have several underlying causes.' The most common cause is flat feet.' Over time, muscular changes needed to adapt to walking with flat feet will contract the great toe towards the second toe, and make prominent the 1st metatarsal head (bone) on the inside of the foot. Joint pain in the great toe can develop over time due to its abnormal position and eventually arthritis will develop.' The great toe can also crowd into the other toes, causing it to over or underlap the second toe.' Other causes for bunions could include injury to the bone or big toe joint, or birth deformities which alter the position of the bone from the start of growth.
Treatment options are somewhat limited, in the sense that surgery is usually required.' Non-surgical measures that attempt to pad the bump or separate the great toe from the second toe can be attempted with varying success.' These techniques change the amount of pressure on the great toe and its relationship with the second toe, although the introduction of more padding can make shoe fit difficult at times. Wider shoes may also help relieve bump pain.' When there is less pressure from the shoe, the bunion does not get as irritated. Women's dress style shoes in particular are well known for aggravating this condition due to their narrow fit, and a simple change in shoe styles may help. For some, this may be all that is necessary. Unfortunately, changing to wider shoes will do nothing for any arthritis that has developed in the joint, and in later stages will be ineffective in treating a significantly painful bunion. Orthotics (prescription shoe inserts) may help to lessen the worsening of the bunion by controlling it's underlying cause (usually flat feet), but cannot alter the bunion already developed.
In most cases, surgery with correction of the bone position and soft tissue contracture is necessary to permanently treat this condition.' Many different techniques have been developed for this procedure, all dependent on the degree of the bone deformity and the needs of the patient.' Different surgeons prefer different procedures, but all accomplish the same thing in correcting the bunion.' In general, the procedures are designed to cut the long bone (1st metatarsal) at some point along its length, usually the far end (head) if the bunion is moderate or the end near the middle of the foot (base) if the bunion is severe. The bone piece cut is then moved over to lessen the distance between long bone of the bunion and the long bone behind the second toe, which is widened in a bunion. By shifting the 1st metatarsal over, the bunion width is reduced and the great toe can be repositioned into a straightened position with a little tweaking of the soft tissue that attaches to it. The cut piece is then secured with a wire, screw, or plate so it may heal. Screws and plates will remain in the foot painlessly, while wires can be pulled out painlessly. Simply shaving the 'bump' will accomplish little, as the bump will return shortly after surgery (within a few years). This shaving can be done as a quick procedure in the elderly or those at risk for surgical complications, keeping in mind it will not likely be permanent. Bunion surgery in general is extremely common, with a low risk of complications and a relatively speedy recovery if the surgeon's complete post-operative instructions are followed correctly.' Most patients can fully recover from this surgery within two months, and most only experience discomfort requiring pain control for a week or less following the surgery. 'The common perception of recovery from bunion surgery being incredibly painful is not true unless one is too active following the surgery and ignores their surgeon's instructions for home care. If the base of the bone has to be addressed in a severe or very unstable bunion, then non-weightbearing in a cast and crutches is necessary for six to eight weeks, as that part of the bone is more unstable and needs to be protected better while the bone heals. Otherwise, recovery using a walking boot with protected weight-bearing is common, and the bone should be healed in six weeks. It is important to follow one's instructions from the surgeon during the recovery period, as any deviation from those instructions, especially with regard to weightbearing, could result in poor healing and pain. Of interesting side note is the fact that there are new devices out there that look like little leg carts on wheels with handlebars and brakes. These are used as a replacement to crutches, and one simply scoots along on them. Numerous brand names exist, including Roll-A-Bout. These devices do make keeping non-weightbearing easier, and are preferred to crutches in the case of those with shoulder weakness or pain.
All things considered, not all bunions require correction, especially if they are not causing pain or shoe discomfort. 'However, most bunions will eventually cause symptoms, and if delayed treatment may require more aggressive surgery to fix severe deformities, including possible joint implants if the joint develops arthritis. 'Another factor to consider is our decreasing ability to heal from this surgery quickly as we age and become less healthy. It is best to have bunions evaluated to determine the proper treatment course, and to improve one's comfort efficiently and permanently.
------
Dr. Kilberg provides compassionate and complete foot and ankle care to adults and children in the Indianapolis area. He is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, and is a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association. He enjoys providing comprehensive foot health information to the online community to help the public better understand their feet. Visit his practice website at http://www.inpodiatrygroup.com
One of the most common foot conditions causing pain is found near the big toe joint. This pain is worsened in shoes, and sometimes may even be present when walking barefoot.' The big toe is shifted over toward (or even over or under) the second toe, and there is a bump or enlargement of bone on the side of the foot.' This condition is called a bunion, and symptoms can run a range from no pain, simple discomfort, to severe pain.''The medical name is hallux abductovalgus, which describes the way the great toe angles and rotates over towards the second toe. The size of the bunion is not always the more significant medical finding, as some people have severe bunions which cause no pain at all, and some people have small bunions which are so painful they can hardly wear shoes. 'This type of foot pain can be sharp, throbbing, aching, or even burning. 'Most people with this condition have pain directly against the side of the foot at the prominent joint (the bump of bone). 'It can also be felt along the big toe, or underneath the ball of the foot near the joint. 'This pain usually is much worse when in tight shoes, although in advanced cases pain is felt whenever walking at all, shoes or not. ' Even bending the toe passively can cause discomfort in those cases. 'Burning or tingling and numbness can be felt if the bunion stretches the nerve that runs along side it. People of all ages can have bunions, as it is also seen in kids.''It is a misconception that only older people get bunions, and the presence of bunions is certainly not a sign of aging, as some people are simply born with them.
Bunions are a complex foot deformity of both bone and the soft tissue that attaches to the bone.' Popular opinion not withstanding, bunions are NOT caused by tight shoe use.' One's feet have not been 'moldable' since early childhood, and a tight shoe will not alter the position of one's bones.' However, a tight shoe can aggravate a bunion, and a previously non-painful bunion can suddenly become painful.' This develops as inflammation sets into the tissues surrounding the great toe joint. Shoe pressure can aggravate the tissues on the side of the foot to produce this pressure. Bunions are usually inherited from one's parents or grandparents and have several underlying causes.' The most common cause is flat feet.' Over time, muscular changes needed to adapt to walking with flat feet will contract the great toe towards the second toe, and make prominent the 1st metatarsal head (bone) on the inside of the foot. Joint pain in the great toe can develop over time due to its abnormal position and eventually arthritis will develop.' The great toe can also crowd into the other toes, causing it to over or underlap the second toe.' Other causes for bunions could include injury to the bone or big toe joint, or birth deformities which alter the position of the bone from the start of growth.
Treatment options are somewhat limited, in the sense that surgery is usually required.' Non-surgical measures that attempt to pad the bump or separate the great toe from the second toe can be attempted with varying success.' These techniques change the amount of pressure on the great toe and its relationship with the second toe, although the introduction of more padding can make shoe fit difficult at times. Wider shoes may also help relieve bump pain.' When there is less pressure from the shoe, the bunion does not get as irritated. Women's dress style shoes in particular are well known for aggravating this condition due to their narrow fit, and a simple change in shoe styles may help. For some, this may be all that is necessary. Unfortunately, changing to wider shoes will do nothing for any arthritis that has developed in the joint, and in later stages will be ineffective in treating a significantly painful bunion. Orthotics (prescription shoe inserts) may help to lessen the worsening of the bunion by controlling it's underlying cause (usually flat feet), but cannot alter the bunion already developed.
In most cases, surgery with correction of the bone position and soft tissue contracture is necessary to permanently treat this condition.' Many different techniques have been developed for this procedure, all dependent on the degree of the bone deformity and the needs of the patient.' Different surgeons prefer different procedures, but all accomplish the same thing in correcting the bunion.' In general, the procedures are designed to cut the long bone (1st metatarsal) at some point along its length, usually the far end (head) if the bunion is moderate or the end near the middle of the foot (base) if the bunion is severe. The bone piece cut is then moved over to lessen the distance between long bone of the bunion and the long bone behind the second toe, which is widened in a bunion. By shifting the 1st metatarsal over, the bunion width is reduced and the great toe can be repositioned into a straightened position with a little tweaking of the soft tissue that attaches to it. The cut piece is then secured with a wire, screw, or plate so it may heal. Screws and plates will remain in the foot painlessly, while wires can be pulled out painlessly. Simply shaving the 'bump' will accomplish little, as the bump will return shortly after surgery (within a few years). This shaving can be done as a quick procedure in the elderly or those at risk for surgical complications, keeping in mind it will not likely be permanent. Bunion surgery in general is extremely common, with a low risk of complications and a relatively speedy recovery if the surgeon's complete post-operative instructions are followed correctly.' Most patients can fully recover from this surgery within two months, and most only experience discomfort requiring pain control for a week or less following the surgery. 'The common perception of recovery from bunion surgery being incredibly painful is not true unless one is too active following the surgery and ignores their surgeon's instructions for home care. If the base of the bone has to be addressed in a severe or very unstable bunion, then non-weightbearing in a cast and crutches is necessary for six to eight weeks, as that part of the bone is more unstable and needs to be protected better while the bone heals. Otherwise, recovery using a walking boot with protected weight-bearing is common, and the bone should be healed in six weeks. It is important to follow one's instructions from the surgeon during the recovery period, as any deviation from those instructions, especially with regard to weightbearing, could result in poor healing and pain. Of interesting side note is the fact that there are new devices out there that look like little leg carts on wheels with handlebars and brakes. These are used as a replacement to crutches, and one simply scoots along on them. Numerous brand names exist, including Roll-A-Bout. These devices do make keeping non-weightbearing easier, and are preferred to crutches in the case of those with shoulder weakness or pain.
All things considered, not all bunions require correction, especially if they are not causing pain or shoe discomfort. 'However, most bunions will eventually cause symptoms, and if delayed treatment may require more aggressive surgery to fix severe deformities, including possible joint implants if the joint develops arthritis. 'Another factor to consider is our decreasing ability to heal from this surgery quickly as we age and become less healthy. It is best to have bunions evaluated to determine the proper treatment course, and to improve one's comfort efficiently and permanently.
------
Dr. Kilberg provides compassionate and complete foot and ankle care to adults and children in the Indianapolis area. He is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, and is a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association. He enjoys providing comprehensive foot health information to the online community to help the public better understand their feet. Visit his practice website at http://www.inpodiatrygroup.com
Notable People Who Have Died from Mesothelioma and Those Still Fighting For a Cure
Notable People Who Have Died from Mesothelioma and Those Still Fighting For a Cure
There is no easy way to cope with mesothelioma. Even before the diagnosis, the disease is undeniably devastating. As if the disease itself is not bad enough, it frequently occurs on top of asbestosis and other asbestos related diseases. Any man or woman living with the disease should rightfully be considered a hero.
But even amongst this group, some stand out as pioneers. Some fight for the rights of workers harmed by companies who put profits above human life, pushing to expand their bottom line by hiding the damage asbestos exposure can have on health. Others are helping people survive and live as happy a life as possible through summer camps for children and support groups. Many are pushing for mesothelioma treatments and a cure, testing the limits of life lived with the disease. This article is dedicated to all those who inspire and all those who seek newer and better mesothelioma treatments.
Devastating Disease
The first signs may seem innocuous, nothing more sinister than a cough and shortness of breath. But over time, an uncomfortable pain and pressure will develop in the chest, leading to further complications that eventually turn fatal. These symptoms may seem like a lung disorder, but are actually the result of peritoneal mesothelioma, a type of cancer whose tumors grow in the mesothelium, the lining around vital organs. Peritoneal occurs in the mesothelium surrounding the lungs, by far the most common.
So far, treatment options for this disease are very limited. Drugs have only a slight effect and cannot cure it. Operations have been more successful, but the mesothelium can be difficult to reach and can be difficult to determine if all tumors have been removed. Even if all are successfully excised, the cancer may still return, infecting other parts of the body and spreading further. Yet there is hope, as is proven by those who live with the disease. Mesothelioma treatment can work, prolonging life and increasing precious time.
Strong Fighter: Steven Jay Gould
In July 1982, prominent paleontologist and outspoken civil advocate Steven Jay Gould was diagnosed with mesothelioma of the stomach lining and given eight months to live. But Mr. Gould refused to accept the terminal sentence and instead started writing a column entitled "The Median Isn't the Message." He noted that eight months was only an average, the lifespan of 50% of patients after diagnosis. Treatment could make that number vary, he argued. Determination, age, and early detection would also be factors. He could live longer -- much longer -- than the eight months his doctor had originally given him.
Ultimately, Mr. Gould was correct. Through an aggressive mesothelioma treatment regimen, he was able to drive the cancer back. His column also became a source of hope for many undergoing cancer treatment. Mr. Gould ultimately lived another 20 years before finally passing away as a result of metastatic adenocarcenoma of the lung. The lung cancer had spread to his brain, eventually becoming terminal. He died on May 20, 2002 and the cause of death was completely unrelated to mesothelioma.
Paul Kraus: No Treatment, but a Strong Will
Born in Austria, Mr. Kraus migrated to Australia while very young. He took a factory job cutting asbestos sheets, exposing himself to the dangerous fibers over a period of years. He was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma in 1997 and given eight months to live.
But Mr. Kraus did not accept the short term. Yet, neither did he accept the treatment options: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. He feared they would simply impact the quality of his remaining time without adding significantly to the number of days he had left. Mr. Kraus denied conventional medical treatment and instead began his own regimen consisting of numerous vitamins, traditional Chinese medicine, and a strict diet.
Mr. Kraus continues his regimen to this day and enjoys a good life with no major signs of his illness. He has written several books, including one based on his experiences dealing with the cancer.
Fighting On
Although Mr. Kraus chose not to have conventional medical treatment, he reviewed all his options. Mr. Gould is living a long, happy life thanks to lifesaving care with radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy. If you suspect that you may have mesothelioma, treatment should be mandatory - not optional - unless you are certain that you understand the risks. Don't delay, ask a physician about mesothelioma treatment first and make choices later.
There is no easy way to cope with mesothelioma. Even before the diagnosis, the disease is undeniably devastating. As if the disease itself is not bad enough, it frequently occurs on top of asbestosis and other asbestos related diseases. Any man or woman living with the disease should rightfully be considered a hero.
But even amongst this group, some stand out as pioneers. Some fight for the rights of workers harmed by companies who put profits above human life, pushing to expand their bottom line by hiding the damage asbestos exposure can have on health. Others are helping people survive and live as happy a life as possible through summer camps for children and support groups. Many are pushing for mesothelioma treatments and a cure, testing the limits of life lived with the disease. This article is dedicated to all those who inspire and all those who seek newer and better mesothelioma treatments.
Devastating Disease
The first signs may seem innocuous, nothing more sinister than a cough and shortness of breath. But over time, an uncomfortable pain and pressure will develop in the chest, leading to further complications that eventually turn fatal. These symptoms may seem like a lung disorder, but are actually the result of peritoneal mesothelioma, a type of cancer whose tumors grow in the mesothelium, the lining around vital organs. Peritoneal occurs in the mesothelium surrounding the lungs, by far the most common.
So far, treatment options for this disease are very limited. Drugs have only a slight effect and cannot cure it. Operations have been more successful, but the mesothelium can be difficult to reach and can be difficult to determine if all tumors have been removed. Even if all are successfully excised, the cancer may still return, infecting other parts of the body and spreading further. Yet there is hope, as is proven by those who live with the disease. Mesothelioma treatment can work, prolonging life and increasing precious time.
Strong Fighter: Steven Jay Gould
In July 1982, prominent paleontologist and outspoken civil advocate Steven Jay Gould was diagnosed with mesothelioma of the stomach lining and given eight months to live. But Mr. Gould refused to accept the terminal sentence and instead started writing a column entitled "The Median Isn't the Message." He noted that eight months was only an average, the lifespan of 50% of patients after diagnosis. Treatment could make that number vary, he argued. Determination, age, and early detection would also be factors. He could live longer -- much longer -- than the eight months his doctor had originally given him.
Ultimately, Mr. Gould was correct. Through an aggressive mesothelioma treatment regimen, he was able to drive the cancer back. His column also became a source of hope for many undergoing cancer treatment. Mr. Gould ultimately lived another 20 years before finally passing away as a result of metastatic adenocarcenoma of the lung. The lung cancer had spread to his brain, eventually becoming terminal. He died on May 20, 2002 and the cause of death was completely unrelated to mesothelioma.
Paul Kraus: No Treatment, but a Strong Will
Born in Austria, Mr. Kraus migrated to Australia while very young. He took a factory job cutting asbestos sheets, exposing himself to the dangerous fibers over a period of years. He was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma in 1997 and given eight months to live.
But Mr. Kraus did not accept the short term. Yet, neither did he accept the treatment options: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. He feared they would simply impact the quality of his remaining time without adding significantly to the number of days he had left. Mr. Kraus denied conventional medical treatment and instead began his own regimen consisting of numerous vitamins, traditional Chinese medicine, and a strict diet.
Mr. Kraus continues his regimen to this day and enjoys a good life with no major signs of his illness. He has written several books, including one based on his experiences dealing with the cancer.
Fighting On
Although Mr. Kraus chose not to have conventional medical treatment, he reviewed all his options. Mr. Gould is living a long, happy life thanks to lifesaving care with radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy. If you suspect that you may have mesothelioma, treatment should be mandatory - not optional - unless you are certain that you understand the risks. Don't delay, ask a physician about mesothelioma treatment first and make choices later.
New Mesothelioma Treatment
New Mesothelioma Treatment
Significant progress has been made in the early cancer detection and treatment options but still there are cancers, such as Mesothelioma, that are not easy to treat. Since 2006, scientists have learned quite a bit about the differences between normal cells and cancer cells. They are working overtime to come up with drugs that can treat mesothelioma without causing any side effects. Angiogenesis drugs are promising treatments that have no side effects attached and target the tumor rather than the normal cells of the body.
Immunotherapy and Mesothelioma
Commonly known as biological therapy, immunotherapy uses the immune system of the body to protect it against disease. Scientists have come to the conclusion that the immune system can distinguish between cancer cells and healthy cells and it can get rid of cancerous cells. The main objective of immunotherapy is to repair and increase the natural anticancer function of the immune system. Substances employed in immunotherapy are known as biological response modifiers. With biological response modifiers, you will find that your body can fight disease much better.
There are plenty of biological response modifiers such as antibodies and cytokines that occur naturally in the body. However, with advancements in technology, scientists are making biological response modifiers in the laboratory that can imitate natural immune response agents. These biological response modifiers increase the immune system so cancer cell growth can be reduced. They also create cancer cells that can be easily destroyed by the immune system.
Photodynamic Therapy for Mesothelioma
Photodynamic therapy is a treatment set on the basis of the “single-celled organisms” concept. The main function of photodynamic therapy is to get rid of the cancerous cells using fixed frequency light. By using fixed frequency light, photosensitizing drugs are activated. Generally, photosensitizing drugs are accumulated in body tissues.
In photodynamic therapy, a photosensitizing drug is administered intravenously. Within two or three days, photosensitizing drugs selectively focus on diseased cells while avoiding normal cells. After this, the treated cancer cells are exposed to a laser light directed on the cancer site using a fiber-optic device which allows manipulation of the laser light.
The major side effect associated with photodynamic therapy is skin sensitivity. If you are undergoing photodynamic therapy, you must avoid direct sunlight for a period of one month. Other side effects of photodynamic therapy are nausea, eye sensitivity to light, vomiting and a metallic taste in the mouth.
Other Therapies for Mesothelioma Patients
Gene Therapy treats the disease at the DNA level. For individuals with abnormal genes, this therapy can be quite useful.
Replacement Gene Therapy where a missing gene is substituted. The p53 gene is often the main target for gene substitution.
Knockout Gene Therapy the emphasis is on the oncogenes products (cancer causing genes) that are responsible for tumor formation.
Significant progress has been made in the early cancer detection and treatment options but still there are cancers, such as Mesothelioma, that are not easy to treat. Since 2006, scientists have learned quite a bit about the differences between normal cells and cancer cells. They are working overtime to come up with drugs that can treat mesothelioma without causing any side effects. Angiogenesis drugs are promising treatments that have no side effects attached and target the tumor rather than the normal cells of the body.
Immunotherapy and Mesothelioma
Commonly known as biological therapy, immunotherapy uses the immune system of the body to protect it against disease. Scientists have come to the conclusion that the immune system can distinguish between cancer cells and healthy cells and it can get rid of cancerous cells. The main objective of immunotherapy is to repair and increase the natural anticancer function of the immune system. Substances employed in immunotherapy are known as biological response modifiers. With biological response modifiers, you will find that your body can fight disease much better.
There are plenty of biological response modifiers such as antibodies and cytokines that occur naturally in the body. However, with advancements in technology, scientists are making biological response modifiers in the laboratory that can imitate natural immune response agents. These biological response modifiers increase the immune system so cancer cell growth can be reduced. They also create cancer cells that can be easily destroyed by the immune system.
Photodynamic Therapy for Mesothelioma
Photodynamic therapy is a treatment set on the basis of the “single-celled organisms” concept. The main function of photodynamic therapy is to get rid of the cancerous cells using fixed frequency light. By using fixed frequency light, photosensitizing drugs are activated. Generally, photosensitizing drugs are accumulated in body tissues.
In photodynamic therapy, a photosensitizing drug is administered intravenously. Within two or three days, photosensitizing drugs selectively focus on diseased cells while avoiding normal cells. After this, the treated cancer cells are exposed to a laser light directed on the cancer site using a fiber-optic device which allows manipulation of the laser light.
The major side effect associated with photodynamic therapy is skin sensitivity. If you are undergoing photodynamic therapy, you must avoid direct sunlight for a period of one month. Other side effects of photodynamic therapy are nausea, eye sensitivity to light, vomiting and a metallic taste in the mouth.
Other Therapies for Mesothelioma Patients
Gene Therapy treats the disease at the DNA level. For individuals with abnormal genes, this therapy can be quite useful.
Replacement Gene Therapy where a missing gene is substituted. The p53 gene is often the main target for gene substitution.
Knockout Gene Therapy the emphasis is on the oncogenes products (cancer causing genes) that are responsible for tumor formation.
Mesothelioma Treatment
Mesothelioma Treatment
Mesothelioma Treatment
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that occurs in the lungs. In addition to affecting the lungs, it can also result in complications that affect the heart and the abdomen. Every year, there are as many as 3,000 people diagnosed with mesothelioma. Men are four times more likely than women to be diagnosed with mesothelioma, and with the exception of benign mesothelioma all forms of the disease are terminal. There is no cure.
Patients who are diagnosed with the disease are expected to survive for less than a year in most cases, although there are other factors that can change the life expectancy of the patient.
Causes of Mesothelioma
This terminal cancer is often caused by exposure to asbestos which is inhaled or otherwise ingested. This leads to inflammation and infection. Asbestos is a naturally occurring but dangerous fiber that was often used by a large number of industries throughout the twentieth century. The dangers of asbestos become well known in the seventies, leading to a decline in its use. Unfortunately, it is still found in some buildings. More than thirty percent of the people who suffer from mesothelioma are veterans.
Types of Mesothelioma
There are five different types of mesothelioma that the medical world is aware of. One of them is benign, but the following four are terminal diseases.
Pleural Mesothelioma: This is the most common form of the disease, affecting seventy five percent of the people who are diagnosed with the disease. It forms in the lining of the lungs, which is referred to in the medical world as pleura.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Twenty percent of people who suffer from the disease suffer from this variant. Rather than in the lungs, this forms in the lining of the abdomen. This lining is known as the peritoneal membrane.
Pericardial Mesothelioma: Affecting about five percent of the people with the disease, this cancer develops inside the lining of the heart, which is known as the pericardium.
Testicular Mesothelioma: This is an extremely rare form of the disease, and occurs in the testicles of men.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma does not show any signs of occurrence until two to five decades after a patient was exposed to asbestos. The symptoms of mesothelioma are often easy to confuse with the symptoms of much less dangerous diseases. Some of the most common symptoms are lung issues. These include chest pain, a cough that does not go away, and shortness of breath. Lumps may also develop under the skin and chest. Patients may also feel abdominal pain and nausea, they may lose weight, and they may have bowel issues. Patients may also feel heart palpitations, have difficulty breathing, and suffer from night sweats.
Mesothelioma Treatment
A patient who has been found to show all of the symptoms of mesothelioma and has been diagnosed as such will then go on to receive treatment for the disease. There are a number of different types of treatment available for this disease. Among the options that are available are surgery and chemotherapy. Another option is radiation therapy. Many patients who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma are given more than one of these treatments this is referred to as multimodality therapy. By combining more than one of these effective, rigorous treatments, it is possible to approach a solution to the cancer from various angles. This improves upon the life expectancy of the patient so that they are much more likely to survive the disease.
In addition to these options, there are also some more experimental procedures. Among these options are photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, and immunotherapy. Unfortunately, these options are still in the experimental phase, with little knowledge as to their effectiveness. For this reason they are typically only available to patients as part of a clinical trial.
Some of the more recent clinical trials conducted on photodynamic therapy and immunotherapy have shown results that are positive enough to suggest that further research is a good idea. Patients who agree to take part in a clinical trial are not only exposing themselves to treatments that may be beneficial; they are also providing researchers with the information that they need to develop new treatments and possibly cures for people who are suffering from mesothelioma in the present and future.
http://entot.info
Mesothelioma Treatment
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that occurs in the lungs. In addition to affecting the lungs, it can also result in complications that affect the heart and the abdomen. Every year, there are as many as 3,000 people diagnosed with mesothelioma. Men are four times more likely than women to be diagnosed with mesothelioma, and with the exception of benign mesothelioma all forms of the disease are terminal. There is no cure.
Patients who are diagnosed with the disease are expected to survive for less than a year in most cases, although there are other factors that can change the life expectancy of the patient.
Causes of Mesothelioma
This terminal cancer is often caused by exposure to asbestos which is inhaled or otherwise ingested. This leads to inflammation and infection. Asbestos is a naturally occurring but dangerous fiber that was often used by a large number of industries throughout the twentieth century. The dangers of asbestos become well known in the seventies, leading to a decline in its use. Unfortunately, it is still found in some buildings. More than thirty percent of the people who suffer from mesothelioma are veterans.
Types of Mesothelioma
There are five different types of mesothelioma that the medical world is aware of. One of them is benign, but the following four are terminal diseases.
Pleural Mesothelioma: This is the most common form of the disease, affecting seventy five percent of the people who are diagnosed with the disease. It forms in the lining of the lungs, which is referred to in the medical world as pleura.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Twenty percent of people who suffer from the disease suffer from this variant. Rather than in the lungs, this forms in the lining of the abdomen. This lining is known as the peritoneal membrane.
Pericardial Mesothelioma: Affecting about five percent of the people with the disease, this cancer develops inside the lining of the heart, which is known as the pericardium.
Testicular Mesothelioma: This is an extremely rare form of the disease, and occurs in the testicles of men.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma does not show any signs of occurrence until two to five decades after a patient was exposed to asbestos. The symptoms of mesothelioma are often easy to confuse with the symptoms of much less dangerous diseases. Some of the most common symptoms are lung issues. These include chest pain, a cough that does not go away, and shortness of breath. Lumps may also develop under the skin and chest. Patients may also feel abdominal pain and nausea, they may lose weight, and they may have bowel issues. Patients may also feel heart palpitations, have difficulty breathing, and suffer from night sweats.
Mesothelioma Treatment
A patient who has been found to show all of the symptoms of mesothelioma and has been diagnosed as such will then go on to receive treatment for the disease. There are a number of different types of treatment available for this disease. Among the options that are available are surgery and chemotherapy. Another option is radiation therapy. Many patients who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma are given more than one of these treatments this is referred to as multimodality therapy. By combining more than one of these effective, rigorous treatments, it is possible to approach a solution to the cancer from various angles. This improves upon the life expectancy of the patient so that they are much more likely to survive the disease.
In addition to these options, there are also some more experimental procedures. Among these options are photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, and immunotherapy. Unfortunately, these options are still in the experimental phase, with little knowledge as to their effectiveness. For this reason they are typically only available to patients as part of a clinical trial.
Some of the more recent clinical trials conducted on photodynamic therapy and immunotherapy have shown results that are positive enough to suggest that further research is a good idea. Patients who agree to take part in a clinical trial are not only exposing themselves to treatments that may be beneficial; they are also providing researchers with the information that they need to develop new treatments and possibly cures for people who are suffering from mesothelioma in the present and future.
http://entot.info
Mesothelioma Treatment-A basic explanation
Mesothelioma Treatment-A basic explanation
Mesothelioma is an uncommon type of cancer that affects the lining cover of mainly the lungs and abdomen.
There are two types of surgeries for mesothelioma treatments,
Aggressive Surgery and Palliative Procedures. Before performing any
surgery, it is necessary to check whether the heart and lungs are
functioning properly. Of the two types, aggressive surgery, also known
as Pneumonectomy, is complicated surgery performed on younger patients,
who are good in health and can bear the surgery. Pneumonectomy involves
the removal of extra pleural membrane and a lung. The main purpose of
this surgical treatment is to physically remove as much tumor as
possible.
Palliative procedures of mesothelioma treatment are known as
Pleurectomy. It is done in the early stages of cancer. This process of
treatment involves surgical removal of pleura. However, the procedures
are involved to lessen and control the symptoms rather than to cure the
disease. This surgery reduces the pain caused by the tumor mass and
helps in preventing the recurrence of pleural effusion. Complete
removal of tumor is not possible with this procedure.
Chemotherapy is a form of treatment method that makes combined use of
certain drugs for shrinking the tumor. Though some patients show only
partial success to this method, some combination's of chemotherapy drugs
have proved successful. Scientists have developed some new chemotherapy
drugs for treating the cancer.
Radiotherapy makes use of nuclear radiations to try and selectively
kill the cancerous cells and shrinkdebulk the tumor. This radiation
can however also destroy the surrounding normal tissues of the heart,
lungs and other nearby organs.
Most often a combination therapy is employed in the treatment of the
disease. This involves the use of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and
surgery together. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are used to kill any
remaining tumor cells left after the surgery and the combination
therapy helps to relieve symptoms like pain.
Mesothelioma treatments can be very expensive and the victim can file
lawsuits to get compensation and settlements to pay for medical
expenses, loss of income, lost earning capacity, pain and sufferings.
The mesothelioma victim will often need to seek the services of a
competent asbestos attorney to be able to secure their deserved
compensations from the industries/companies responsible for exposing
them to asbestos.
Mesothelioma is an uncommon type of cancer that affects the lining cover of mainly the lungs and abdomen.
There are two types of surgeries for mesothelioma treatments,
Aggressive Surgery and Palliative Procedures. Before performing any
surgery, it is necessary to check whether the heart and lungs are
functioning properly. Of the two types, aggressive surgery, also known
as Pneumonectomy, is complicated surgery performed on younger patients,
who are good in health and can bear the surgery. Pneumonectomy involves
the removal of extra pleural membrane and a lung. The main purpose of
this surgical treatment is to physically remove as much tumor as
possible.
Palliative procedures of mesothelioma treatment are known as
Pleurectomy. It is done in the early stages of cancer. This process of
treatment involves surgical removal of pleura. However, the procedures
are involved to lessen and control the symptoms rather than to cure the
disease. This surgery reduces the pain caused by the tumor mass and
helps in preventing the recurrence of pleural effusion. Complete
removal of tumor is not possible with this procedure.
Chemotherapy is a form of treatment method that makes combined use of
certain drugs for shrinking the tumor. Though some patients show only
partial success to this method, some combination's of chemotherapy drugs
have proved successful. Scientists have developed some new chemotherapy
drugs for treating the cancer.
Radiotherapy makes use of nuclear radiations to try and selectively
kill the cancerous cells and shrinkdebulk the tumor. This radiation
can however also destroy the surrounding normal tissues of the heart,
lungs and other nearby organs.
Most often a combination therapy is employed in the treatment of the
disease. This involves the use of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and
surgery together. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are used to kill any
remaining tumor cells left after the surgery and the combination
therapy helps to relieve symptoms like pain.
Mesothelioma treatments can be very expensive and the victim can file
lawsuits to get compensation and settlements to pay for medical
expenses, loss of income, lost earning capacity, pain and sufferings.
The mesothelioma victim will often need to seek the services of a
competent asbestos attorney to be able to secure their deserved
compensations from the industries/companies responsible for exposing
them to asbestos.
Mesothelioma Treatment-6 Holistic methods of treatment
Mesothelioma Treatment-6 Holistic methods of treatment
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Mesothelioma Treatment Options
Mesothelioma Treatment Options
Of late, there are several new mesothelioma treatments are being developed. This give rise to new hopes for more mesothelioma treatment options for victims of this disease.
Research is mostly revolving around developing new treatments or improving upon the past traditional treatments. It is very encouraging for mesothelioma patients as new chemotherapy agents and combinations of agents have been showing improved results.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is one of the new mesothelioma treatment options being looked into. It is based on the theory that single celled organisms die when exposed to certain frequency of light. In order for this to happen in this treatment, certain photosensitive drugs are administered intravenously into the patient. Normally, over a few days, the drug will zoom in and concentrate on the diseased cells and destroy it. There are however, some side effects such as skin sensitivity, nausea and vomiting.
Another treatment option is Immunotherapy, which is sometimes known as biological therapy. In this treatment method, the immune system of the patient's body is used to treat and fight off the disease. When struck by mesothelioma, the patients body's ability to treat itself might be hampered due to the disease.
The Immunotherapy treatment will then try to rejuvenate the patients' immune system and thereby, improving the patients natural immune system which is the most effective way to combat any disease. This therapy will also try to repair the immune systems in areas where they are faulty. A naturally occuring substance called, Biological response modifiers (BRMs) are what is used in immunotherapy. Although BRMs naturally occur in the body research has proven that it can now be prepared in laboratory and is found to be just as effective as the natural BRMs.
Another new mesothelioma treatment option that has been developed is the Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT). IMRT is a new treatment used to enhance localized control of mesothelioma. In this therapy, researchers have found a way for radiation doses to be administered to the tumor without causing undue damage to nearby normal, healthy cells.
Treatment at the DNA level is also another important breakthrough that researchers have made. In Gene Therapy, doctors will try to correct or replace the abnormal or damaged genes. The two main types of Gene Therapy most commonly used today are Replacement gene therapy and knockout gene therapy therapy. In replacement gene therapy the mutated or missing gene which causes the mesothelioma is replaced whereas in knockout gene therapy, the gene responsible for creating the tumor is completely eliminated. With more research being done in gene therapy today, much more information regarding genes are being unfolded constantly.As such, gene therapy treatments holds the highest promise of the future in the treatment of mesothelioma.
Other forms of treatments which use some combinations of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, sometimes called multimodality therapy, are also currently being researched.
Last but not least, Heated Intraoperative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy combined with the use of a pemetrexed drug, brand named Alimta, are some of the new developments in the treatment of mesothelioma.
With research going on in some many spheres from Gene Therapy, Biologicals as well as combinational treatments, the outlook for mesothelioma treatment options looks to be bright and expanding.Ben is an accomplished online publisher with many websites setup dealing with a variety of issues. Check out his latest site on Mesothelioma Treatment Options and also the article on Dealing With Abestos At Home
Of late, there are several new mesothelioma treatments are being developed. This give rise to new hopes for more mesothelioma treatment options for victims of this disease.
Research is mostly revolving around developing new treatments or improving upon the past traditional treatments. It is very encouraging for mesothelioma patients as new chemotherapy agents and combinations of agents have been showing improved results.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is one of the new mesothelioma treatment options being looked into. It is based on the theory that single celled organisms die when exposed to certain frequency of light. In order for this to happen in this treatment, certain photosensitive drugs are administered intravenously into the patient. Normally, over a few days, the drug will zoom in and concentrate on the diseased cells and destroy it. There are however, some side effects such as skin sensitivity, nausea and vomiting.
Another treatment option is Immunotherapy, which is sometimes known as biological therapy. In this treatment method, the immune system of the patient's body is used to treat and fight off the disease. When struck by mesothelioma, the patients body's ability to treat itself might be hampered due to the disease.
The Immunotherapy treatment will then try to rejuvenate the patients' immune system and thereby, improving the patients natural immune system which is the most effective way to combat any disease. This therapy will also try to repair the immune systems in areas where they are faulty. A naturally occuring substance called, Biological response modifiers (BRMs) are what is used in immunotherapy. Although BRMs naturally occur in the body research has proven that it can now be prepared in laboratory and is found to be just as effective as the natural BRMs.
Another new mesothelioma treatment option that has been developed is the Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT). IMRT is a new treatment used to enhance localized control of mesothelioma. In this therapy, researchers have found a way for radiation doses to be administered to the tumor without causing undue damage to nearby normal, healthy cells.
Treatment at the DNA level is also another important breakthrough that researchers have made. In Gene Therapy, doctors will try to correct or replace the abnormal or damaged genes. The two main types of Gene Therapy most commonly used today are Replacement gene therapy and knockout gene therapy therapy. In replacement gene therapy the mutated or missing gene which causes the mesothelioma is replaced whereas in knockout gene therapy, the gene responsible for creating the tumor is completely eliminated. With more research being done in gene therapy today, much more information regarding genes are being unfolded constantly.As such, gene therapy treatments holds the highest promise of the future in the treatment of mesothelioma.
Other forms of treatments which use some combinations of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, sometimes called multimodality therapy, are also currently being researched.
Last but not least, Heated Intraoperative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy combined with the use of a pemetrexed drug, brand named Alimta, are some of the new developments in the treatment of mesothelioma.
With research going on in some many spheres from Gene Therapy, Biologicals as well as combinational treatments, the outlook for mesothelioma treatment options looks to be bright and expanding.Ben is an accomplished online publisher with many websites setup dealing with a variety of issues. Check out his latest site on Mesothelioma Treatment Options and also the article on Dealing With Abestos At Home
Mesothelioma Treatment Options for Malignant Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma Treatment Options for Malignant Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma treatment options for malignant mesothelioma can relieve pain and provide hope for the future. In many cases, new mesothelioma treatment options can increase mesothelioma life expectancy beyond original expectations. Even if advanced malignant mesothelioma has reached a seemingly incurable stage, participating in clinical trials gives a breath of hope to the future generations of mesothelioma cancer patients.
Treatment for malignant mesothelioma can start with surgery, although this is not always recommended in mesothelioma treatment options since older patients may have a difficult time with surgery. The objective is to remove the tumor, or at least most of it, and slow down the disease. With advanced mesothelioma, the tumor has often tragically spread throughout the body and has invaded life-giving organs, making surgery more risky than living with cancer itself. However in the early stages of malignant mesothelioma, a localized tumor is more likely to be successfully removed.
Radical surgery is a mesothelioma treatment option for advanced malignant mesothelioma that has been used in small clinical trials, but has resulted in almost half the patients (48%) living at least five years past their predetermined mesothelioma life expectancy date. "Extrapleural pneumonectomy" involves removing the internal body parts that mesothelioma cancer cells love to invade. Surgery removes the parietal pleura (pleural mesothelioma), the pericardium (pericardial mesothelioma) and the diaphragm, as well as the removal of a lung. This surgery is combined with pre and post operative chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Cancer Research UK is funding a "MARS" clinical trial (mesothelioma and radical surgery) to formally undergo pilot testing. Since the patients must be followed for five years, the results are not yet available and the success of these mesothelioma treatment options has yet to be discovered. UK medical reports do claim that US trial results have thus far demonstrated that a heavier dose of radiotherapy after the EPP surgery extends mesothelioma life expectancy.
Mesothelioma treatment options almost always include chemotherapy. Progress is seen in mesothelioma treatment when chemotherapy is combined with drug therapy. There are clinical trials for mesothelioma treatment options around the world that are seeking to find the chemotherapy and drug mix that can prolong mesothelioma life expectancy. Clinical trials are listed at many cancer organizations and research hospitals, and many seek mesothelioma patients wanting mesothelioma treatment options for advanced malignant mesothelioma. In advanced malignant mesothelioma, participating in a clinical trial can be a lifesaving mesothelioma treatment option.
Mesothelioma treatment options for advanced malignant mesothelioma can also be found in clinical trials for anti-angiogenic therapy. Anti-angiogenic mesothelioma treatment options are biological therapies that revolve around blood vessel growth. A cancer needs its own blood supply to grow. Two primary chemicals contribute to growth, VEGF and FGF-2. Mesothelioma patients with advanced malignant mesothelioma have higher levels of VEGF compared to patients suffering from other cancers. The theory the clinical trials are hoping to prove is that blocking VEFG will stop the blood vessel growth that supports the cancer growth.
Mesothelioma treatment options for malignant mesothelioma also includes clinical trials in phototherapy, immunotherapy, gene therapy and other therapies. Medical specialists are scrambling to find the mesothelioma treatment options for malignant mesothelioma that can protect and cure the projected increase in mesothelioma patients of the future. Participating in clinical trials can extend mesothelioma life expectancy and provide hope for future generations.
Mesothelioma treatment options for malignant mesothelioma can relieve pain and provide hope for the future. In many cases, new mesothelioma treatment options can increase mesothelioma life expectancy beyond original expectations. Even if advanced malignant mesothelioma has reached a seemingly incurable stage, participating in clinical trials gives a breath of hope to the future generations of mesothelioma cancer patients.
Treatment for malignant mesothelioma can start with surgery, although this is not always recommended in mesothelioma treatment options since older patients may have a difficult time with surgery. The objective is to remove the tumor, or at least most of it, and slow down the disease. With advanced mesothelioma, the tumor has often tragically spread throughout the body and has invaded life-giving organs, making surgery more risky than living with cancer itself. However in the early stages of malignant mesothelioma, a localized tumor is more likely to be successfully removed.
Radical surgery is a mesothelioma treatment option for advanced malignant mesothelioma that has been used in small clinical trials, but has resulted in almost half the patients (48%) living at least five years past their predetermined mesothelioma life expectancy date. "Extrapleural pneumonectomy" involves removing the internal body parts that mesothelioma cancer cells love to invade. Surgery removes the parietal pleura (pleural mesothelioma), the pericardium (pericardial mesothelioma) and the diaphragm, as well as the removal of a lung. This surgery is combined with pre and post operative chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Cancer Research UK is funding a "MARS" clinical trial (mesothelioma and radical surgery) to formally undergo pilot testing. Since the patients must be followed for five years, the results are not yet available and the success of these mesothelioma treatment options has yet to be discovered. UK medical reports do claim that US trial results have thus far demonstrated that a heavier dose of radiotherapy after the EPP surgery extends mesothelioma life expectancy.
Mesothelioma treatment options almost always include chemotherapy. Progress is seen in mesothelioma treatment when chemotherapy is combined with drug therapy. There are clinical trials for mesothelioma treatment options around the world that are seeking to find the chemotherapy and drug mix that can prolong mesothelioma life expectancy. Clinical trials are listed at many cancer organizations and research hospitals, and many seek mesothelioma patients wanting mesothelioma treatment options for advanced malignant mesothelioma. In advanced malignant mesothelioma, participating in a clinical trial can be a lifesaving mesothelioma treatment option.
Mesothelioma treatment options for advanced malignant mesothelioma can also be found in clinical trials for anti-angiogenic therapy. Anti-angiogenic mesothelioma treatment options are biological therapies that revolve around blood vessel growth. A cancer needs its own blood supply to grow. Two primary chemicals contribute to growth, VEGF and FGF-2. Mesothelioma patients with advanced malignant mesothelioma have higher levels of VEGF compared to patients suffering from other cancers. The theory the clinical trials are hoping to prove is that blocking VEFG will stop the blood vessel growth that supports the cancer growth.
Mesothelioma treatment options for malignant mesothelioma also includes clinical trials in phototherapy, immunotherapy, gene therapy and other therapies. Medical specialists are scrambling to find the mesothelioma treatment options for malignant mesothelioma that can protect and cure the projected increase in mesothelioma patients of the future. Participating in clinical trials can extend mesothelioma life expectancy and provide hope for future generations.
Mesothelioma Symptom Relief and Palliative Care for Breathlessness
Mesothelioma Symptom Relief and Palliative Care for Breathlessness
Mesothelioma symptom relief is the central focus of care for the mesothelioma patient deemed incurable. Pain management will vary with each patient. The mesothelioma patient's pre-existing conditions and exacerbating conditions are factors in determining the best mesothelioma symptom relief and palliative care plan available. However, there are similarities in mesothelioma treatment and symptomatic relief for pleural mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma.
Almost every cancer patient, mesothelioma cancer patients included, experiences painful difficulty breathing during the last stages of cancer. Medical studies have indicated that as many as 70% of terminal cancer patients experience painful difficulty breathing. With diseases such as pleural mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma and lung cancer, painful breathing and shortness of breath occurs during all of the cancer stages, not just the terminal stages.
Difficulty breathing is frightening for the mesothelioma patient, the caregiver and family members. The fear of imminent death and helplessness suddenly becomes unexpectedly more real. Mesothelioma symptom relief for breathing difficulties should include emotional care as well as physical symptom relief. Relaxation techniques should be taught, and it should be stressed that there needs to be adaptations to daily activities to reduce breathing difficulty. Lifestyle changes will be in order to control mesothelioma breathing difficulties, and the most stubborn mesothelioma patients need to be convinced that this is the best mesothelioma treatment for them. Defining a new lifestyle as a "well deserved vacation" can help instigate a transition.
Mesothelioma symptom relief for physical pain from breathing difficulties can be provided by learning, advising and providing for the patient the best position of their body for proper air flow. A fresh stream of air from a window or a fan can provide mesothelioma symptom relief during breathing difficulty. Teaching the patient hyperventilation techniques can be very useful for the patient's self-monitoring of their mesothelioma treatment. A mesothelioma patient with trouble breathing needs to learn how to purse their lips at the first sign of breathing trouble, stay calm, relax their shoulders, back, neck and arms, then "flop" themselves into relaxation. Until this technique is mastered, learning how to breathe out slowly is an important step in breathing management.
Mesothelioma patients must realize that anxiety breeds anxiety. If a patient is afraid that they are going to die at the moment they are experiencing breathing difficulty, their body will respond by producing more anxiety, and more breathlessness. This is an emotional and physical response, not merely emotional.
Oxygen is sometimes prescribed for mesothelioma symptom relief; however physicians report that some patients become unnecessarily dependent on oxygen. For other patients, oxygen is their lifeline of mesothelioma treatment. Oxygen therapy also requires a review of whether intermittent or continuous therapy provides the best relief for their mesothelioma symptoms. Mesothelioma treatment with oxygen therapy will also consider whether to use oxygen tanks or an oxygen concentrator.
There are also medications for mesothelioma symptom relief of breathlessness. Anxiolytic drugs Lorazepam, Diazepam, Midazolam, and Methotrimeprazine can be prescribed for mesothelioma treatment of breathlessness. Benzodiazepines are anxiolytic drugs that have a sedative effect and use muscle relaxation as pain treatment of breathlessness.
Mesothelioma symptom relief for breathing requires educating the patient, the caregiver and the family in palliative care. Mesothelioma treatment for pain also requires monitoring and adapting mesothelioma pain treatment plans to meet the patient's medical needs, as well as their emotional needs. Listening to the patient's perception of pain is crucial to determining the appropriate pain management treatment for mesothelioma symptoms. The patient feels the pain. With mesothelioma symptom relief and palliative care from knowledgeable and loving caregivers, the patient can enjoy the last years of their life as pain free as medical science allows.
Mesothelioma symptom relief is the central focus of care for the mesothelioma patient deemed incurable. Pain management will vary with each patient. The mesothelioma patient's pre-existing conditions and exacerbating conditions are factors in determining the best mesothelioma symptom relief and palliative care plan available. However, there are similarities in mesothelioma treatment and symptomatic relief for pleural mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma.
Almost every cancer patient, mesothelioma cancer patients included, experiences painful difficulty breathing during the last stages of cancer. Medical studies have indicated that as many as 70% of terminal cancer patients experience painful difficulty breathing. With diseases such as pleural mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma and lung cancer, painful breathing and shortness of breath occurs during all of the cancer stages, not just the terminal stages.
Difficulty breathing is frightening for the mesothelioma patient, the caregiver and family members. The fear of imminent death and helplessness suddenly becomes unexpectedly more real. Mesothelioma symptom relief for breathing difficulties should include emotional care as well as physical symptom relief. Relaxation techniques should be taught, and it should be stressed that there needs to be adaptations to daily activities to reduce breathing difficulty. Lifestyle changes will be in order to control mesothelioma breathing difficulties, and the most stubborn mesothelioma patients need to be convinced that this is the best mesothelioma treatment for them. Defining a new lifestyle as a "well deserved vacation" can help instigate a transition.
Mesothelioma symptom relief for physical pain from breathing difficulties can be provided by learning, advising and providing for the patient the best position of their body for proper air flow. A fresh stream of air from a window or a fan can provide mesothelioma symptom relief during breathing difficulty. Teaching the patient hyperventilation techniques can be very useful for the patient's self-monitoring of their mesothelioma treatment. A mesothelioma patient with trouble breathing needs to learn how to purse their lips at the first sign of breathing trouble, stay calm, relax their shoulders, back, neck and arms, then "flop" themselves into relaxation. Until this technique is mastered, learning how to breathe out slowly is an important step in breathing management.
Mesothelioma patients must realize that anxiety breeds anxiety. If a patient is afraid that they are going to die at the moment they are experiencing breathing difficulty, their body will respond by producing more anxiety, and more breathlessness. This is an emotional and physical response, not merely emotional.
Oxygen is sometimes prescribed for mesothelioma symptom relief; however physicians report that some patients become unnecessarily dependent on oxygen. For other patients, oxygen is their lifeline of mesothelioma treatment. Oxygen therapy also requires a review of whether intermittent or continuous therapy provides the best relief for their mesothelioma symptoms. Mesothelioma treatment with oxygen therapy will also consider whether to use oxygen tanks or an oxygen concentrator.
There are also medications for mesothelioma symptom relief of breathlessness. Anxiolytic drugs Lorazepam, Diazepam, Midazolam, and Methotrimeprazine can be prescribed for mesothelioma treatment of breathlessness. Benzodiazepines are anxiolytic drugs that have a sedative effect and use muscle relaxation as pain treatment of breathlessness.
Mesothelioma symptom relief for breathing requires educating the patient, the caregiver and the family in palliative care. Mesothelioma treatment for pain also requires monitoring and adapting mesothelioma pain treatment plans to meet the patient's medical needs, as well as their emotional needs. Listening to the patient's perception of pain is crucial to determining the appropriate pain management treatment for mesothelioma symptoms. The patient feels the pain. With mesothelioma symptom relief and palliative care from knowledgeable and loving caregivers, the patient can enjoy the last years of their life as pain free as medical science allows.
Mesothelioma Stages and Mesothelioma Staging Systems
Mesothelioma Stages and Mesothelioma Staging Systems
Mesothelioma stages are categorized in the medical community for evaluative benefit for the physician, the medical institution, participation in clinical trials, and advancements in mesothelioma treatment options. Staging systems are used to define mesothelioma stages; however, mesothelioma stages are far more descriptive for pleural mesothelioma than for peritoneal mesothelioma or pericardial mesothelioma. Mesothelioma staging systems have changed over time. As medical knowledge increases, mesothelioma staging systems advance.
By sectioning a progressive disease into stages, doctors can evaluate mesothelioma treatment options that have been proven successful. By defining mesothelioma stages in a universal staging system, international mesothelioma life expectancy statistics can be gathered. When a staging system gains international acceptance, it contributes greatly to the advancement of mesothelioma treatment options. Grouping similar variables for evaluation is beneficial to developing mesothelioma treatment options for different mesothelioma stages.
In 1976 the Butchart staging system identified four mesothelioma stages for diffuse pleural malignant mesothelioma by location. At stage one, the tumor is in one side of the pleural lining. At stage two, the tumor is malignant and has entered both lungs, and has the potential to spread. In stage three of Butchart's mesothelioma stages, the tumor has entered the peritoneum (abdomen region), and at stage four, the cancer has spread through the blood stream.
It was simple, thus gained acceptance. However, it fails to address crucial issues. Medical experts suggest it fails to make survival correlations with mesothelioma stages. The Butchart mesothelioma staging system in its originality is obsolete for mesothelioma life expectancy statistics, however other mesothelioma stages have been developed from it, and many cancer institutions modify it for their evaluative purposes.
In the 1980s Chahinian added detailed tumor stages, lymph node stages and metastases stages to the pleural mesothelioma staging system. This staging system is referred to as TNM and is used within elaborative staging systems. In 1990 the UICC (Union Internationale Contre le Cancer) expounded on Chahinian's mesothelioma stages. The Butchart, Chahinian and UICC mesothelioma staging systems were based on specific institution experience.
In 1999 the Bingham Hospital introduced a pleural mesothelioma surgical staging system in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery. The IMIG (International Mesothelioma Interest Group) in a 1995 Journal of Chest from the American College of Chest Physicians proposed international acceptance for a detailed universal staging system. This staging system demands precise tumor location, and is based on TNM and the International Lung Cancer Staging System.
Medical institutions will use the mesothelioma stages and staging system practical for their internal evaluative purposes. But the mesothelioma patient should be aware when discussing mesothelioma life expectancy and prognosis that mesothelioma staging systems differ, and staging systems still undergo scrutiny. No staging system includes all variables for treatment and prognosis. Factors such as tumor subtypes can make a significant difference in prognosis.
In its basic form, mesothelioma has two stages - localized and advanced. In most staging systems, localized mesothelioma is considered stage one. Stages two through four are advanced mesothelioma stages. Mesothelioma stages are generally defined by location, the severity of the tumor, or surgical needs. The stages of mesothelioma are dependent on the staging system used.
Mesothelioma stages are important considerations in treatment and prognosis. An accepted universal mesothelioma staging system can expedite medical research to find effective mesothelioma treatment options. Advances in clinical research will continue to contribute to the development of defining mesothelioma stages until precise correlations can be made. Until then, staging systems are a universal answer to evaluating mesothelioma treatment.
Mesothelioma stages are categorized in the medical community for evaluative benefit for the physician, the medical institution, participation in clinical trials, and advancements in mesothelioma treatment options. Staging systems are used to define mesothelioma stages; however, mesothelioma stages are far more descriptive for pleural mesothelioma than for peritoneal mesothelioma or pericardial mesothelioma. Mesothelioma staging systems have changed over time. As medical knowledge increases, mesothelioma staging systems advance.
By sectioning a progressive disease into stages, doctors can evaluate mesothelioma treatment options that have been proven successful. By defining mesothelioma stages in a universal staging system, international mesothelioma life expectancy statistics can be gathered. When a staging system gains international acceptance, it contributes greatly to the advancement of mesothelioma treatment options. Grouping similar variables for evaluation is beneficial to developing mesothelioma treatment options for different mesothelioma stages.
In 1976 the Butchart staging system identified four mesothelioma stages for diffuse pleural malignant mesothelioma by location. At stage one, the tumor is in one side of the pleural lining. At stage two, the tumor is malignant and has entered both lungs, and has the potential to spread. In stage three of Butchart's mesothelioma stages, the tumor has entered the peritoneum (abdomen region), and at stage four, the cancer has spread through the blood stream.
It was simple, thus gained acceptance. However, it fails to address crucial issues. Medical experts suggest it fails to make survival correlations with mesothelioma stages. The Butchart mesothelioma staging system in its originality is obsolete for mesothelioma life expectancy statistics, however other mesothelioma stages have been developed from it, and many cancer institutions modify it for their evaluative purposes.
In the 1980s Chahinian added detailed tumor stages, lymph node stages and metastases stages to the pleural mesothelioma staging system. This staging system is referred to as TNM and is used within elaborative staging systems. In 1990 the UICC (Union Internationale Contre le Cancer) expounded on Chahinian's mesothelioma stages. The Butchart, Chahinian and UICC mesothelioma staging systems were based on specific institution experience.
In 1999 the Bingham Hospital introduced a pleural mesothelioma surgical staging system in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery. The IMIG (International Mesothelioma Interest Group) in a 1995 Journal of Chest from the American College of Chest Physicians proposed international acceptance for a detailed universal staging system. This staging system demands precise tumor location, and is based on TNM and the International Lung Cancer Staging System.
Medical institutions will use the mesothelioma stages and staging system practical for their internal evaluative purposes. But the mesothelioma patient should be aware when discussing mesothelioma life expectancy and prognosis that mesothelioma staging systems differ, and staging systems still undergo scrutiny. No staging system includes all variables for treatment and prognosis. Factors such as tumor subtypes can make a significant difference in prognosis.
In its basic form, mesothelioma has two stages - localized and advanced. In most staging systems, localized mesothelioma is considered stage one. Stages two through four are advanced mesothelioma stages. Mesothelioma stages are generally defined by location, the severity of the tumor, or surgical needs. The stages of mesothelioma are dependent on the staging system used.
Mesothelioma stages are important considerations in treatment and prognosis. An accepted universal mesothelioma staging system can expedite medical research to find effective mesothelioma treatment options. Advances in clinical research will continue to contribute to the development of defining mesothelioma stages until precise correlations can be made. Until then, staging systems are a universal answer to evaluating mesothelioma treatment.
Learning About Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Learning About Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
The prognosis in malignant Pleural Mesothelioma is tough to evaluate consistently as there is quite a bit of variation in the time before diagnosis and the rate of malignant Pleural Mesothelioma progression. A number of surgical routines may be implemented in selected patients, offering long-term survival without a cure. In most Pleural Mesothelioma patients, significant factors for prognosis are age, stage, histology and performance status.
For individuals treated with aggressive surgical routines, factors linked with improved long-term survival are negative surgical margins, negative lymph nodes and epithelial histology. A record of asbestos exposure is reported in about 75% of all Mesothelioma cases.
Cellular Classification
Histologically, Mesothelioma tumors are comprised of epithelial and fibrous elements. According to a recent study, the epithelial form causes plenty of confusion with metastatic carcinomas. A needle biopsy of the pleura is not going to be effective in diagnosis. It is tough distinguishing between Mesothelioma and carcinoma on small tissue specimens. However, a thoracoscopy can be quite useful in getting the correct tissue specimens for diagnostic purposes. Gross tumor examination at the time of surgery can also be useful and the use of electron microscopy is recommended.
Stage Information
Individuals with stage I of the disease have a much better prognosis in comparison to those with stages II or III. Because malignant Pleural Mesothelioma is quite rare, there is not much information available on survival. The staging system is set on the basis of thoracic surgery and the TNM staging system.
Stage I: Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma confined within the parietal pleura capsule
Stage II: Everything that is there in the stage I alongside positive intrathoracic lymph nodes
Stage III: Local extension of malignant Pleural Mesothelioma into the chest wall and heart
Stage IV: Distant metastatic disease
Treatment Options
It is advisable that you go for a standard treatment rather than aggressive ones. There are a number of side effects associated with aggressive treatment routine. An extra-pleural pneumonectomy in some of the patients may prove effective in the long run. According to recent research, decortication and pleurectomy can give you relief from symptomatic effusions and pain occurring because of tumor burden. The use of radiation therapy and chemotherapy after surgery also gives temporary relief.
Localized Malignant Mesothelioma
Solitary Mesotheliomas: Surgical resection en bloc comprises of contiguous structures which play a prominent part in getting rid of symptoms. Your health care provider will employ sessile polypoid lesions
Intracavitary Mesothelioma: Intracavitary Mesothelioma is treated through radiation therapy. In some cases, you will also find extrapleural pneumonectomy.
Advanced Malignant Mesothelioma Treatment Options
Symptomatic treatment including thoracoscopic pleurodesis, drainage of effusions and chest tube pleurodesis
Palliative surgical resection is also being performed on some individuals
Palliative radiation therapy
Single-agent chemotherapy
Intracavitary therapy is performed on selected patients. It includes intrapleural and intraperitoneal administration of chemotherapeutic agents. Some of the chemotherapeutic agents that are used in the therapy are cytarabine, cisplatin and mitomycin. These agents play a significant part in minimizing the tumor size and controlling pain.
Recurrent Malignant Mesothelioma
Recurrent malignant Mesothelioma treatment normally uses routines and agents that are not used initially. There is no standard treatment available at present that can control the symptoms of malignant Pleural Mesothelioma.
The prognosis in malignant Pleural Mesothelioma is tough to evaluate consistently as there is quite a bit of variation in the time before diagnosis and the rate of malignant Pleural Mesothelioma progression. A number of surgical routines may be implemented in selected patients, offering long-term survival without a cure. In most Pleural Mesothelioma patients, significant factors for prognosis are age, stage, histology and performance status.
For individuals treated with aggressive surgical routines, factors linked with improved long-term survival are negative surgical margins, negative lymph nodes and epithelial histology. A record of asbestos exposure is reported in about 75% of all Mesothelioma cases.
Cellular Classification
Histologically, Mesothelioma tumors are comprised of epithelial and fibrous elements. According to a recent study, the epithelial form causes plenty of confusion with metastatic carcinomas. A needle biopsy of the pleura is not going to be effective in diagnosis. It is tough distinguishing between Mesothelioma and carcinoma on small tissue specimens. However, a thoracoscopy can be quite useful in getting the correct tissue specimens for diagnostic purposes. Gross tumor examination at the time of surgery can also be useful and the use of electron microscopy is recommended.
Stage Information
Individuals with stage I of the disease have a much better prognosis in comparison to those with stages II or III. Because malignant Pleural Mesothelioma is quite rare, there is not much information available on survival. The staging system is set on the basis of thoracic surgery and the TNM staging system.
Stage I: Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma confined within the parietal pleura capsule
Stage II: Everything that is there in the stage I alongside positive intrathoracic lymph nodes
Stage III: Local extension of malignant Pleural Mesothelioma into the chest wall and heart
Stage IV: Distant metastatic disease
Treatment Options
It is advisable that you go for a standard treatment rather than aggressive ones. There are a number of side effects associated with aggressive treatment routine. An extra-pleural pneumonectomy in some of the patients may prove effective in the long run. According to recent research, decortication and pleurectomy can give you relief from symptomatic effusions and pain occurring because of tumor burden. The use of radiation therapy and chemotherapy after surgery also gives temporary relief.
Localized Malignant Mesothelioma
Solitary Mesotheliomas: Surgical resection en bloc comprises of contiguous structures which play a prominent part in getting rid of symptoms. Your health care provider will employ sessile polypoid lesions
Intracavitary Mesothelioma: Intracavitary Mesothelioma is treated through radiation therapy. In some cases, you will also find extrapleural pneumonectomy.
Advanced Malignant Mesothelioma Treatment Options
Symptomatic treatment including thoracoscopic pleurodesis, drainage of effusions and chest tube pleurodesis
Palliative surgical resection is also being performed on some individuals
Palliative radiation therapy
Single-agent chemotherapy
Intracavitary therapy is performed on selected patients. It includes intrapleural and intraperitoneal administration of chemotherapeutic agents. Some of the chemotherapeutic agents that are used in the therapy are cytarabine, cisplatin and mitomycin. These agents play a significant part in minimizing the tumor size and controlling pain.
Recurrent Malignant Mesothelioma
Recurrent malignant Mesothelioma treatment normally uses routines and agents that are not used initially. There is no standard treatment available at present that can control the symptoms of malignant Pleural Mesothelioma.
Find Details about Health Insurance for Self Employed
Find Details about Health Insurance for Self Employed
Self employed person is a happy man with nobody to command him. He has his own set of work or business which he manages in his own way. However, health insurance for self employed person could make him sad due to the heavy premium amounts. It now becomes his responsibility to find out details about health insurance for himself and his family
Self employed person is a happy man with nobody to command him. He has his own set of work or business which he manages in his own way. However, health insurance for self employed person could make him sad due to the heavy premium amounts. It now becomes his responsibility to find out details about health insurance for himself and his family.
People are trying to explore the business world and get independent these days. In such a scenario health insurance for self employed should be given high priority. There is lot of uncertainty prevailing in the surroundings which makes these policies very important in life.
Things start getting really very expensive since the medical expenses are at an all time high. Every single test and diagnosis involve huge amount of money. Middle class people are the ones who are worst hit with the existing situation since their entire savings can vanish with just one major medical crisis. Also with the recession causing panic in the market, it makes sense to remove the fear of medical expenses from our minds.
The introduction of the health insurance by many government and private companies has managed to assist people to cope up with the potential medical expenses. However these insurance policies can have high premium values depending on the company and plan. It becomes essential to do some research and find details of low cost insurance policies.
Self employed people are not a part of any group insurance coverage. They do not get any special benefit in terms of discounted premium amount. Health insurance for self employed then becomes expensive and goes out of budget. They need proper guidance and assistance from experts who can give them an idea of low cost insurance policies.
It would be really great if you could understand the health insurance for self employed before you approach the experts. The information which you might want to understand well is about the features in the policies. You'll need to analyze if the features suit your requirements. The policy which you buy will be more beneficial to you if it covers your existing medical conditions as well.
If you are a self employed person, you might need to check the health insurance for self employed options available with the insurance companies. Always emphasize on insurance policies that give coverage to your family. The premium amount of family would be very less as compared to that of an individual. Compare prices of every plan each company has to offer and choose the best out of it.
If you have plans for extending your business with recruitment of more employees, you can check with insurance companies for group plans. It will secure you and your family along with all other employees at minimal rate. Even with your spouse working in your organization gives you a chance to opt for group plans. Almost every insurance company offers group plans which can be further discussed with experts.
Think and plan to join some trading associations to avail for group plans which will save lot of your money. However, some companies offer lot of other benefits of health insurance for self employed.
This is the right time to take decision and get insured for your
future medical expenses.
This article is proudly presented by Nancy . For all your health insurance quotes visit healthquotessite.
Self employed person is a happy man with nobody to command him. He has his own set of work or business which he manages in his own way. However, health insurance for self employed person could make him sad due to the heavy premium amounts. It now becomes his responsibility to find out details about health insurance for himself and his family
Self employed person is a happy man with nobody to command him. He has his own set of work or business which he manages in his own way. However, health insurance for self employed person could make him sad due to the heavy premium amounts. It now becomes his responsibility to find out details about health insurance for himself and his family.
People are trying to explore the business world and get independent these days. In such a scenario health insurance for self employed should be given high priority. There is lot of uncertainty prevailing in the surroundings which makes these policies very important in life.
Things start getting really very expensive since the medical expenses are at an all time high. Every single test and diagnosis involve huge amount of money. Middle class people are the ones who are worst hit with the existing situation since their entire savings can vanish with just one major medical crisis. Also with the recession causing panic in the market, it makes sense to remove the fear of medical expenses from our minds.
The introduction of the health insurance by many government and private companies has managed to assist people to cope up with the potential medical expenses. However these insurance policies can have high premium values depending on the company and plan. It becomes essential to do some research and find details of low cost insurance policies.
Self employed people are not a part of any group insurance coverage. They do not get any special benefit in terms of discounted premium amount. Health insurance for self employed then becomes expensive and goes out of budget. They need proper guidance and assistance from experts who can give them an idea of low cost insurance policies.
It would be really great if you could understand the health insurance for self employed before you approach the experts. The information which you might want to understand well is about the features in the policies. You'll need to analyze if the features suit your requirements. The policy which you buy will be more beneficial to you if it covers your existing medical conditions as well.
If you are a self employed person, you might need to check the health insurance for self employed options available with the insurance companies. Always emphasize on insurance policies that give coverage to your family. The premium amount of family would be very less as compared to that of an individual. Compare prices of every plan each company has to offer and choose the best out of it.
If you have plans for extending your business with recruitment of more employees, you can check with insurance companies for group plans. It will secure you and your family along with all other employees at minimal rate. Even with your spouse working in your organization gives you a chance to opt for group plans. Almost every insurance company offers group plans which can be further discussed with experts.
Think and plan to join some trading associations to avail for group plans which will save lot of your money. However, some companies offer lot of other benefits of health insurance for self employed.
This is the right time to take decision and get insured for your
future medical expenses.
This article is proudly presented by Nancy . For all your health insurance quotes visit healthquotessite.
Asbestos cancer information
Asbestos cancer information
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Selasa, 26 Juli 2011
November is Lung Cancer Consciousness Month
In this effort to inform the community about lung cancer, identification of asbestos disease organizations (ADAO) gave their support. Most types of lung cancer is the leading cause of death in the United States is an urgent need to have to educate themselves and continue research on water and cures for lung disease. According ADAO, lung disease, not only led to smoking. There are other aspects of risk that must be considered. The public is asbestos leads to many types of pulmonary disease. Mesothelioma is one of these devastating diseases.
Surprisingly, the majority of lung cancer has gotten amazingly little interest. It is vital to increase general public awareness of the reality that most lung cancer is not just for smokers disease. Advocacy groups need to educate the community about our # 1 killer. ADAO founded in 2004, victims of asbestos-related diseases increase community recognition of exposure to asbestos. Miners, workers, insulation manufacturers, shipbuilders, construction workers and auto mechanics can be exposed to asbestos, which could lead to mesothelioma or other lung bolesti.ADAO committed to improving prevention, early detection, new treatment options, and other resources for mesothelioma and asbestos other related lung disease victims.
An individual who has an alternative to a lawyer specializing in litigation. This type of specialized legal expertise can assist in information, medical, therapy and compensation from the corporation responsible for the precarious conditions of exposure to asbestos. If you are a victim, contact a specialized mesothelioma lawyer to get support and financial compensation, you will need and deserve a treat your illness.
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