Treatments for mesothelioma

If you have mesothelioma, your healthcare team will create a treatment plan just for you. The plan will be based on your health and specific information about the cancer. What you want is also important when planning treatment. When deciding which treatments to offer for mesothelioma, your healthcare team will consider:

  • if the mesothelioma started in the pleura or peritoneum
  • the stage
  • the subtype
  • if it can be removed by surgery
  • your overall health
  • your personal preferences

Treatments for pleural mesothelioma

The most important factor in planning treatment for pleural mesothelioma is if it can be removed with surgery. It can also be treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy.

Treatments for peritoneal mesothelioma

Treatments offered for peritoneal mesothelioma can include chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy.

Surgery for mesothelioma

Surgery is a medical procedure to examine, remove or repair tissue. Sometimes mesothelioma can be treated with surgery. It can also be used to relieve symptoms caused by mesothelioma.

Chemotherapy for mesothelioma

Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. It is one of the main treatments for mesothelioma.

Radiation therapy for mesothelioma

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays or particles to destroy cancer cells. It is sometimes used to treat mesothelioma.

Immunotherapy for mesothelioma

Most people with pleural mesothelioma that can't be removed with surgery will be offered immunotherapy. It helps strengthen the immune system to fight cancer.

Follow-up after treatment for mesothelioma

Follow-up is an important part of care for mesothelioma. It often involves regular tests and visits with the healthcare team.

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Medical disclaimer

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