Doctor Q&A
Are there any new treatments available for mesothelioma?
In addition to the standard
mesothelioma treatments, one new drug has been
approved by the FDA for treatment of the disease. Alimta
(pemetrexed) in combination with cisplatin, a powerful
chemotherapy drug, is the first licensed treatment
for mesothelioma. The combination of cisplatin and
Alimta has been the most effective chemotherapy drug
used to shrink mesothelioma tumors. The drug was approved
in February 2004. There are clinical trials being conducted
to research the effectiveness of other experimental
mesothelioma treatments as well.
How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
Mesothelioma is a very difficult disease to diagnose.
The symptoms of both pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma
(the most common forms of the disease) are similar to
those of other diseases. There are a number of tests
doctors can use to diagnose
mesothelioma. Most doctors will initially perform
a physical examination, breathing tests, research medical
history, and ask if you have a history of asbestos exposure.
If abnormalities are found, more testing will be performed
to determine if scarring, thickening, excess fluid, tumors,
or cancer are present.
How can I be sure my doctor is qualified to treat my illness?
The best way to learn if your physician is able to deal
with mesothelioma cases is to ask. If your doctor is
affiliated with an institution or cancer center that
treats mesothelioma patients, they can refer you to a
specialist. Even if your doctor is not associated with
a cancer center, they will be able to refer you to the
closest qualified center in your area. Mesothelioma
is a rare disease so it is possible that your physician
does not have a large amount of experience with the disease.
You may also want to find out if your insurance company
will cover a second opinion if you would like one.
Is there a cure for mesothelioma?
There is no cure for mesothelioma at present. There are,
however, many treatments that can help prolong life and increase
quality of life after diagnosis. There are many options
available depending on the circumstances of each mesothelioma
patient. It is important to not give up hope and seek as
much help as possible.
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