What Are The Survival Rates For Pleural Mesothelioma?

  What Are The Survival Rates For Pleural Mesothelioma?

Pleural mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer, arises from exposure to asbestos fibers. This debilitating disease primarily affects the lining of the lungs, known as the pleura.

One of the critical aspects of understanding mesothelioma is its survival rates.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of pleural mesothelioma survival rates, exploring factors that influence prognosis, treatment options, and insights into improving outcomes.

What Are The Survival Rates For Pleural Mesothelioma?

The survival rates for pleural mesothelioma vary depending on the stage of the cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, the relative five-year survival rates are as follows:

Localized (Stage 1): 24%

Regional (Stage 2-3): 16%

Distant (Stage 4): 7%

Overall (Stages 1-4): 12%

These percentages represent the proportion of people living with the disease for at least five years following treatment. It's important to note that survival rates can vary based on individual factors and the effectiveness of treatment methods used. Healthcare providers often employ repeat tests to assess the effectiveness of treatment and determine the next course of action.

Pleural Mesothelioma Survival Rate

Pleural mesothelioma occurs in the lining around the lungs, also known as the pleura. It is the most common type of mesothelioma, accounting for 80% – 90% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Pleural Mesothelioma Survival Rates With Treatment

1-year survival rate 73%

3-year survival rate 23%

5-year survival rate 12%

10-year survival rate 5%

Pleural mesothelioma patients who receive treatment generally live longer than those who do not. Pleural mesothelioma is generally treated using a multimodal approach. This approach can be a combination of treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery.

Studies have shown that two surgical procedures combined with other treatments have extended the life expectancy of pleural mesothelioma patients. The most common surgical procedures for pleural mesothelioma are

Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP)

Pleurectomy/decortication (P/D).

Combining these procedures with other treatments can further improve life expectancy.

Understanding Pleural Mesothelioma:

Pleural mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the thin layer of tissue surrounding the lungs, known as the pleura. It is predominantly caused by exposure to asbestos fibers, which can be inhaled and become lodged in the lungs, leading to cellular damage and the development of cancerous tumors. While the latency period between asbestos exposure and the onset of symptoms can be decades, the disease progresses rapidly once diagnosed.

Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma often manifest in the advanced stages and may include:

Persistent cough

Chest pain

Difficulty breathing

Fatigue

Unexplained weight loss

Fluid buildup in the chest cavity (pleural effusion)

Diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma typically involves a combination of imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, as well as biopsies to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. Staging procedures help determine the extent of the disease spread, which plays a crucial role in predicting prognosis and treatment options.

Pleural Mesothelioma Causes

The most prevalent cause of pleural mesothelioma is inhaling asbestos particles. Those afflicted are often exposed to high doses over a period of many years.

According to studies, the needle-like asbestos fibers may burrow into tissues and create persistent inflammation, resulting in DNA alterations. This, in turn, can cause cancer in certain people.3

A rising proportion of elderly persons are acquiring this type of cancer as a result of extensive asbestos exposure between 1940 and 1980 (before the hazards of asbestosis were well understood).

Construction, shipbuilding, pipefitting, and vehicle repair are among the occupations with the highest risk of asbestos exposure. Construction on older homes and structures is of particular concern because to the high possibility that asbestos-containing materials were employed.

In addition to asbestos, some persons have been known to acquire pleural mesothelioma after being exposed to high-dose radiation or contracting viral diseases such as cytomegalovirus.

How Pleural Mesothelioma is Diagnosed

Pleural mesothelioma can be diagnosed by a physical exam and medical history, during which a healthcare practitioner will inquire about your previous professions and family history of cancer.

Lab tests cannot identify pleural mesothelioma, although they can raise a high degree of suspicion. These include blood tests such as the MESOMARK assay, N-ERC/mesothelin test, and fibulin-3 test.

If pleural mesothelioma is suspected, you will be sent to an oncologist for further testing.

Procedures you may encounter include:

CT and PET scans are imaging examinations that can detect tumors or the spread of cancer cells to other organs.

Biopsy is the removal of tissues from the lungs for analysis in the lab.

Thoracentesis is the extraction of pleural fluid using a needle and syringe to examine for cancer cells under a microscope.

Bronchoscopy: This anesthesia-based method examines the lungs by introducing a flexible tube with a camera into the mouth and airways.

How Is Pleural Mesothelioma Treated?

Pleural mesothelioma is often treated surgically to either cure or control the condition. This can entail removing malignant tumors, removing the pleura, or removing the entire lung, including the pleura and endocardium (the lining around the heart).

Others may be eligible for therapies such as:

Radiation treatment is commonly used after surgery to eliminate any leftover cancer cells or when surgery is not an option.

Pleurodesis: The use of medications to prevent fluid buildup in the lungs.

Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses injectable or oral medications to inhibit the development of cancer cells.

Immunotherapy: Used to activate the body's immune system to help fight cancer.

Targeted treatment is used to prevent cancer from spreading by stopping cancer cell division.

The treatment approach is mostly determined by the stage of the disease and whether it is intended to be curative (cure cancer), palliative (ease symptoms), or to delay disease progression.

Support Resources for Mesothelioma Patients and Caregivers:

Navigating a diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma can be overwhelming for patients and their loved ones. Fortunately, there are numerous support resources available to provide guidance, information, and emotional support throughout the journey:

Patient Advocacy Organizations:

Several reputable organizations specialize in providing support, resources, and advocacy for mesothelioma patients and their families. These organizations play a crucial role in raising awareness, funding research, and advocating for improved treatment options and patient care. Some prominent advocacy organizations include:

Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF): MARF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding research, providing support services, and advocating for the mesothelioma community. Their website offers a wealth of information on mesothelioma diagnosis, treatment, clinical trials, and support resources.

Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO): ADAO is a global advocacy organization committed to preventing asbestos exposure and supporting individuals affected by asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma. They provide educational resources, patient support programs, and advocacy initiatives to raise awareness and promote asbestos bans worldwide.

American Lung Association: The American Lung Association offers resources and support services for individuals affected by lung diseases, including mesothelioma. Their website provides information on mesothelioma diagnosis, treatment options, and tips for living with lung cancer.

What Are The Survival Rates For Pleural Mesothelioma? Conclusion

Understanding pleural mesothelioma survival rates is crucial for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals alike.

By delving into the factors influencing prognosis, exploring treatment options, and advocating for holistic care approaches, we can strive to improve survival rates and enhance the quality of life for those affected by this challenging disease.

Stay informed, stay empowered, and never lose hope in the face of adversity.