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Many
mesothelioma sufferers are frightened at the idea of
treatment of mesothelioma, generally because
of the side effects that may occur. So it's not uncommon for
patients to ask what would happen if they did not have the
treatment.
Although most cancer treatments are known
to cause side effects, these can usually be controlled with
the use of medicines.
Treatment of
mesothelioma can be given for many different reasons
and the potential benefits vary depending upon the
individual's age, general health and situation. For a few
patients where the disease is in its early stages, surgery and
radiotherapy may be given with the aim of curing the
mesothelioma.
However, in the majority of cases, when
mesothelioma is at a more advanced stage, any treatment given
is with the sole aim of controlling the cancer, which for some
people will lead to an improved survival and a better quality
of life. But, there are those patients in this situation where
the treatment will have no effect upon the cancer and they
will unfortunately have the side effects of the
treatment of mesothelioma without any of the
benefits.
When a cure of the cancer is not possible
and the treatment of mesothelioma is given
solely to control the cancer for a period of time, it will
often be difficult to decide whether or not to go ahead with
treatment. Decision making under these circumstances is always
tough, and you are well advised to discuss your treatment
program in detail with your doctor.
Treatment of Mesothelioma - Treatment
Methods
Surgery
Surgery may be used in the treatment of
mesothelioma when the condition is diagnosed
early enough and has show no signs of spreading to other areas
of the body.
Radiation
therapy
High-energy x-rays are used to kill cancer
cells and shrink tumors. Radiation may be used palliatively to
treat pain by shrinking tumors which may pressing on nerve
endings or another organ. It may also be used in conjunction
with surgery to eliminate microscopic seeding which can cause
recurrence of disease.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is
literally "chemical therapy" - chemicals are injected into the
body with the hope of destroying the cancer cells. Anticancer,
or chemotherapy drugs, work to prevent cancer cells from
multiplying. Chemotherapy drugs may have undesirable side
effects. Doctors monitor the effects of these treatments. It
is important to discuss with your doctor the chemotherapy
options you are offered, including the expectations of success
and possible side effects. | 
