Oncology Publications
Title
Mesothelioma - Epidemiology and Management
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
10-2011
Journal
Current Respiratory Medicine Reviews
Volume
7
Issue
5
First Page
364
Last Page
376
Abstract
Mesothelioma is an uncommon tumor. It has a latency period of 20-40 years. The most important risk factor is asbestos exposure. Prognosis of mesothelioma is generally poor with high case-fatality rate, and research to improve the outcome of this disease is on-going worldwide. Due to its rarity, management by a multidisciplinary team with experience is recommended. Carefully selected patients may benefit from tri-modality (surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy) treatment. The management of pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma is summarized in this review. Recent advances in chemotherapy and biologic response modifiers are promising.