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Pleural mesothelioma
By Eden Ali | June 15, 2007
Mesothelioma is cancerous disease of mesothelium cells, usually the thoracic, cardial or abdominal regions. The most common type of mesothelioma is the pleural mesothelioma which is a dangerous cancer of the lungs. The “pleura” is a thin membrane between the lungs and the chest cavity. During the growth of pleural mesothelioma cancer,the mesothelium cells become abnormal. These malignant mesothelioma cells undergo division and spread without control and this can begin to interfere with the normal functions of other organs and tissues in that area or region. The growth and distribution of these malignant mesothelioma cells over and around the pleura causes pleural thickening. The flexibility of the pleura thereby reduces and the lungs is embedded in a restrictive girdle. As a result of the restrictions the lungs reduces in size functionality, which results in dypsnea, (breathing becomes difficult).
The malignant cells spreads by directly invading the surrounding tissue. Spreading inward it can cause compression of the lungs. Spreads outward affects the chest wall and ribs, and this can cause extreme pain.
Unfortunately, there is no known curative treatment for malignant mesothelioma. The prognosis is based on different factors, which includes the size and developmental stage of the tumor, the growth extent of the tumor, the type of cell, and the respose of the tumor to treatment.
Mesothelioma treatments options for people with pleural mesothelioma have improved significantly, most especially for people who were diagnosed early and treated vigorously.
These are some of mesothelioma treatments options currently available for pleural mesothelioma and they include:
1. Chemotherapy;
2. Radiotherapy;
3. Surgery;
4. Intra-operative photodynamic therapy.
It is also important to know that a combination of treatment options could also improve mesothelioma treatments.
Topics: Mesothelioma treatment ways |