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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.
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
Staging:
Melanoma is staged to determine the extent of its spread. Stages range from 0 (in situ) to IV (advanced and metastatic).
- Stage I: Localized tumor, no lymph node involvement, and no distant metastasis.
- Stage II: Tumor extends into nearby structures or lymph nodes.
- Stage III: Further spread to distant lymph nodes or nearby structures.
- 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.