Abdominal Fluid Retention

Because mesothelioma is so difficult to diagnose and even more difficult to give an accurate estimate of how the disease has progressed, researchers are constantly looking for new ways to do both. A recent study shows promise of helping doctors choose which mesothelioma patients can most benefit from receiving multimodal therapies.

Tests have shown that certain special cells found in all human cells (called microRNAs) can be used to predict which cases of mesothelioma have the greatest chance of responding to aggressive approaches that use several types of treatments. These might include first doing pleurodesis surgery to prevent fluid buildup in the pleura (lung linings) or abdominal fluid retention, then surgery to remove malignant cells (cytoreduction), and then chemotherapy with drugs such as pemetrexed and carboplatin. Side effects can be difficult with these therapies, but results can improve myriad symptoms.

Early mesothelioma symptoms can be similar to pleurisy symptoms. Then later they might include typical symptoms of advanced lung cancer. Any help doctors can find for diagnosing it or predicting its course can mean better symptom relief and longer survival times.

If you are receiving mesothelioma treatment, consider speaking with a mesothelioma cancer attorney. You may be eligible to receive compensation for your suffering. We can answer all your questions at 800.443.6353. Call any time.