Mesothelioma is a form of cancer almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. It is a rare condition that has a very long latency period in terms of symptoms arising from the time of exposure. In most cases, mesothelioma symptoms can take as long as 20 to 50 years to arise. Unfortunately for many patients, mesothelioma is often diagnosed during the latest stages of development and at a time when treatment options are limited.

Detecting Mesothelioma Cancer

Early detection of mesothelioma is the most assuring way to improve a person’s life expectancy. Those diagnosed when the disease has already reached the advanced stages of development often receive palliative care to relieve symptoms, but such treatments do not look to cure the cancer. If mesothelioma is detected during the first stage of development, a patient may be eligible to receive treatments aimed to remove the cancer altogether. However, such procedures do not guarantee that the cancer will not return later in life.

An X-ray is typically the first diagnostic tool that a doctor will use if mesothelioma is suspected. If signs of mesothelioma or asbestos exposure are found, additional tests may be ordered to confirm a diagnosis. Such tests may include a CT scan, PET scan or MRI scan. A biopsy, also known as a fluid and tissue test, may also be requested to collect a sample of fluid to test for cancerous cells. After a diagnosis has been made, a team of doctors will design the best treatment regimen for the patient’s needs.

Mesothelioma Treatment Options

The most common forms of treatment for malignant mesothelioma patients are surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Other treatment options may be available through clinical trials, but patients must qualify and meet specific criteria in order to enroll in them. It should be noted that surgery is only an option for patients diagnosed at the earliest stage of development. While there is no cure for this cancer, patients often elect to undergo treatments that will relieve symptoms and improve overall survival.

Some types of surgery may be used as palliative care, aimed at making the patient feel more comfortable. In multimodality therapy, the use of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be combined in order to utilize the effectiveness of all three techniques. The most common chemotherapy option combines the medication Alimta with Cisplatin, which is targeted to kill cancerous cells by interfering with cell division. Radiation, most notably used after surgery, is designed to kill cancer cells and limit the spread of mesothelioma tumors.

Cancer Association in South Africa

The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) is designed to enable research, educate the public and provide support to all those affected by cancer. The organization was established in 1931 and now has 45 offices throughout the country. Those who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma may find it helpful in reaching out to CANSA for support and facilities capable of treating the cancer.