Mesothelioma

Prevent, Empower, Thrive: Navigating Mesothelioma Together

Welcome to Universal Hospital’s Mesothelioma Care, where we are committed to providing comprehensive care for individuals affected by mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. 

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects the mesothelium, a thin layer of tissue lining the chest and abdomen. The primary cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure, a group of minerals that were once commonly used in construction, insulation, and other industries. Mesothelioma has a long latency period, and symptoms may not appear until decades after asbestos exposure.

Types of Mesothelioma:

  • Pleural Mesothelioma: Affecting the lining of the lungs (pleura), pleural mesothelioma is the most common form.
  • Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Occurring in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum).
  • Pericardial Mesothelioma: Rarely occurring in the heart’s lining (pericardium).
  • Testicular Mesothelioma: Extremely rare and found in the tunica vaginalis of the testes.

Risk Factors:

  • Asbestos Exposure: Occupational exposure in construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing industries.
  • Secondary Exposure: Family members exposed to asbestos fibers brought home by workers.
  • Environmental Exposure: Living in areas with high asbestos concentrations.
Mesothelioma

Symptoms:

  • Pleural Mesothelioma:
    • Chest pain
    • Shortness of breath
    • Persistent cough
    • Fatigue
  • Peritoneal Mesothelioma:
    • Abdominal pain
    • Swelling or fluid accumulation in the abdomen
    • Weight loss
  • Pericardial Mesothelioma:
    • Chest pain
    • Irregular heartbeat
    • Difficulty breathing
  • Testicular Mesothelioma:
    • Swelling or lumps in the testes
Mesothelioma

Staging:

Melanoma is staged to determine the extent of its spread. Stages range from 0 (in situ) to IV (advanced and metastatic).

  1. Stage I: Localized tumor, no lymph node involvement, and no distant metastasis.
  2. Stage II: Tumor extends into nearby structures or lymph nodes.
  3. Stage III: Further spread to distant lymph nodes or nearby structures.
  4. Stage IV: Extensive invasion of nearby or distant structures, potentially with distant metastasis.

Diagnosis:

  • Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, and MRI to visualize abnormalities.
  • Biopsy: Removal of tissue for laboratory examination to confirm mesothelioma.

Treatment:

  • Surgery: Removal of tumors or affected tissue.
  • Chemotherapy: Systemic drugs to kill or inhibit cancer cells.
  • Radiation Therapy: High-dose X-rays or other forms of radiation to destroy cancer cells.
  • Immunotherapy: Boosting the immune system to target and eliminate cancer cells.
  • Multimodal Therapy: Combination of two or more treatment approaches.

Prevention:

  • Avoid Asbestos Exposure: Minimize exposure to asbestos in the workplace and other environments.
  • Protective Measures: Use protective equipment and follow safety guidelines in asbestos-related industries.

Prognosis:

  • Prognosis varies based on the type and stage of mesothelioma, overall health, and response to treatment. Mesothelioma is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, affecting prognosis.

Screening:

  • Routine screening for mesothelioma is not standard, but individuals with known asbestos exposure should undergo regular health check-ups and report any symptoms promptly.

Mesothelioma Care at Universal Hospital:

  • Specialized Expertise: Our Mesothelioma Care Center is staffed by experienced oncologists, pulmonologists, surgeons, and support staff with specialized knowledge in mesothelioma diagnosis and treatment.
  • Advanced Treatment Options: Universal Hospital offers cutting-edge treatment modalities, including surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and access to clinical trials, ensuring that patients receive the most innovative and effective care available.
  • Patient-Centric Approach: We understand the unique challenges of mesothelioma, and our team is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care to enhance the well-being of our patients.

Senior Consultant Oncosurgeon

Consultant Oncosurgeon

Consultant Oncosurgeon

CANCER SPECIALIST

Cancer Specialist

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