What Treatment Options Are Available for Mesothelioma?

Receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis can be overwhelming, but a clear understanding of your treatment options can make a significant difference in your peace of mind. From traditional methods such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy to advanced approaches like immunotherapy, each treatment has unique benefits and challenges. Exploring each of your options in depth can help you make informed decisions about your health and future. 

Mesothelioma treatments can be expensive, making it essential to understand your legal options as well as your medical ones. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., our lead attorney, Joe Williams, treats every mesothelioma case as his cause and is dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Attorney Williams has over three decades of experience and has never lost a mesothelioma case. He understands the unique challenges of a mesothelioma diagnosis and will handle every detail of your case as you focus on your health. 

Most Common Treatment Options for Mesothelioma

Fortunately, mesothelioma patients have several options available to improve their quality of life, including the following:

Surgery

Mesothelioma surgery involves removing tumors, damaged tissue, or fluid buildup to reduce tumor mass and symptoms. A few common procedures include the following:

• Pleurectomy/Decortication (P/D): This procedure is less invasive and involves removing the pleura (the lung lining) and any visible tumors on the lung or chest wall. It aims to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for mesothelioma patients.
• Cytoreductive Surgery with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC): Following the surgical excision of tumors within the abdominal cavity, a heated chemotherapy solution is administered directly to the affected area. This method is regarded as the premier treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma.
• Extrapleural Pneumonectomy (EPP): This aggressive surgery entails removing the entire affected lung, along with the pleural lining, diaphragm, and any visible tumors within the chest cavity. It is a highly comprehensive approach for treating pleural mesothelioma.

Eligibility and benefits vary depending on the nature of your diagnosis, so it is essential to consult your doctor to determine if surgery is the right option for you.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy for mesothelioma uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth, making it a suitable option for patients who cannot undergo surgery. It is recommended for any cancer stage, and is particularly beneficial for advanced cases. Chemotherapy is often the most common treatment option for mesothelioma patients.

Those who undergo chemotherapy may experience symptom relief and longer life expectancy, but it also carries risks like nausea, fatigue, and potential damage to healthy cells. Discuss this option with your doctor to determine if chemotherapy is right for you.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is designed to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors, making it a popular treatment for mesothelioma. Doctors often combine it with other therapies, especially for patients who aren’t eligible for surgery or chemotherapy.

Radiation therapy may still be an option even if you have already undergone surgery. Benefits include reduced symptoms and extended life expectancy. However, potential risks and side effects include fatigue, skin irritation, and damage to healthy cells. Consult your doctor to determine if radiation therapy is right for you.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy drugs stimulate the body’s immune cells, the same cells that combat infections, to identify and eliminate mesothelioma cancer cells. Some immunotherapies work by targeting specific mechanisms. For instance, Avastin (bevacizumab) inhibits the formation of blood vessels in tumors, cutting off their oxygen and nutrient supply.

This targeted therapy approach can enhance overall well-being and prolong life expectancy. Many patients experience fewer or less severe side effects compared to chemotherapy. Potential side effects include fatigue and skin rashes with inflammation, sometimes impacting sensitive organs.

Contact a Skilled Mesothelioma Attorney at The Williams Law Firm, P.C.

Facing a mesothelioma diagnosis is challenging, and having a knowledgeable advocate can make all the difference. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., Joe Williams, our lead attorney, brings extensive experience and a compassionate approach to every case. We are committed to providing personalized legal support, ensuring your rights are protected and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today at (855) 575-6376 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with our dedicated legal team.