Mesothelioma is one of the illnesses that can develop after a person is exposed to asbestos. This cancer mainly affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. This illness is rare, with statistics showing that 3,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States yearly. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is extremely aggressive, given its evasion of diagnosis and long latency period. It can take up to 60 years or more after asbestos exposure for mesothelioma symptoms to show, and some of the symptoms of mesothelioma can mimic those of other illnesses. It can be difficult to treat mesothelioma because of its later onset and rapid progression.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, a question that might be on your mind is whether there is a cure for this disease. In this article, we answer this question. Read on.
Understanding Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that develops when asbestos fibers are inhaled and are lodged in the mesothelium, the lining or membrane that covers and protects many internal organs of the body. Over time, asbestos fibers can cause inflammation and scarring within the mesothelium, resulting in the progression of mesothelioma.
There are four main types of mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma. The second most common type of mesothelioma is peritoneal mesothelioma. The other two types of mesothelioma are pericardial and testicular mesothelioma.
Is Mesothelioma Curable?
Unfortunately, there is currently no definitive cure for mesothelioma. This is true for all four types of mesothelioma. Some physicians may say that mesothelioma is cured if a complete remission endures for over five years, or in other words, if all signs and symptoms of mesothelioma disappear for over five years. However, while doctors have recorded complete remission with mesothelioma, the illness often returns in such cases. Only a few cases of complete remission lasting for over five years have been reported.
Fortunately, while there is still no definitive cure for mesothelioma, various treatment options exist. Treatment aims to control the disease and improve the quality of life.
Mesothelioma Treatment Options
There are various treatment options for mesothelioma patients, including the following;
- Surgery
When mesothelioma is diagnosed early, surgery can be used to remove it. In some cases, surgery can cure mesothelioma. However, often, it is not possible to remove all the cancer. In such cases, surgery is used to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Chemotherapy
This treatment option uses chemicals to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can shrink or slow the growth of mesothelioma.
- Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy targets specific cancerous areas, helping shrink tumor size and relieve pain.
- Immunotherapy
This option uses the immune system to fight cancer. Natural or laboratory-made substances are utilized to boost, direct, or restore the body’s natural defenses against cancer.
Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment.