





Pleural mesothelioma is a cancer of the protective lining of the lung, known as the pleura. It is caused by inhaling asbestos fibers into the lungs. It is the most common form of mesothelioma.
What is Pleural Mesothelioma?
Pleural mesothelioma makes up roughly 75 percent of all mesothelioma diagnoses. Mesothelioma develops in the lungs when asbestos fibers are inhaled and lodge into the lining of the lungs (pleura). The average life expectancy of a person with pleural mesothelioma is between 12 and 21 months depending on how advanced the disease is and the treatments they receive.
How Is Pleural Mesothelioma Treated?
Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) used to treat pleural mesothelioma
Extrapleural Pneumonectomy (EPP)
This surgery involves the complete removal of the diseased lung and lining. It is a common curative treatment for stage 1 and 2 pleural mesothelioma patients.
Pleurectomy with decortication (P/D) used to treat malignant pleural mesothelioma
Pleurectomy with Decortication (P/D)
A surgeon spares the lung while removing the diseased pleura and all visible tumors. It is less radical than the EPP, but has led to similar survival times in patients.
Chemotherapy drugs used to treat pleural mesothelioma
Chemotherapy
The standard chemotherapy drugs for pleural mesothelioma are Alimta and cisplatin. Chemotherapy is often used before and after surgery.
Radiation
Radiation techniques are being developed to specifically target tumors, leaving healthy lung tissue unharmed. It is the least invasive treatment option for pleural mesothelioma.
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Symptoms
Pleural mesothelioma patients may experience symptoms associated with common illnesses, such as the onset of a fever, shortness of breath or persistent coughing. Although these symptoms are common, if a patient has been exposed to asbestos in the past, it is important they consult a physician. Other symptoms include:
Lower Back Pain
Shortness of Breath (dyspnea)
Unexplained Weight Loss
Swelling of Face or Arms
Fluid Buildup (Pleural Effusion)
Chest Pain (Pleurisy)
Dry or Painful Cough
Fever or Sweating
Tissue Lumps in the Chest
Coughing up Blood (Hemoptysis)
Pleural mesothelioma can be hard to detect because its symptoms, such as shortness of breath and fever, are common in other respiratory ailments. Because mesothelioma is so rare, general practitioners may not readily recognize mesothelioma as a possible diagnosis. Fortunately, research is constantly underway to discover more effective ways to detect mesothelioma.
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