Malignant mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer that affects the mesothelial cells lining the chest and abdominal cavities. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, and its prognosis is generally poor. Treatment options for malignant mesothelioma depend on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. While bone marrow transplant (BMT) is sometimes used in the treatment of malignant mesothelioma, there are several other options available that may be considered.
Surgery: Surgery is often the first-line treatment for malignant mesothelioma, particularly in cases where the cancer is localized and has not spread to other parts of the body. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the cancerous tissue as possible, and may involve removing part or all of the affected lung, pleura (the lining of the chest cavity), or peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity). Surgery can be performed alone or in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It may be used before or after surgery, or as a standalone treatment for mesothelioma that cannot be surgically removed. Radiation therapy can also be used to relieve symptoms such as pain and shortness of breath, and may be delivered externally or internally (brachytherapy).
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It is often used in combination with surgery or radiation therapy, and may also be used as a standalone treatment for mesothelioma that has spread beyond the original location. Chemotherapy can be administered orally or intravenously, and may be given in cycles with rest periods in between to allow the body to recover.
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a relatively new approach to cancer treatment that uses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. It works by stimulating the immune system to identify and attack cancer cells, and may be used alone or in combination with other treatments. Immunotherapy has shown promising results in the treatment of mesothelioma, particularly with the use of checkpoint inhibitors such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab.
Photodynamic therapy: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a type of treatment that uses light and a photosensitizing agent to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with surgery and/or radiation therapy, and involves injecting a photosensitizing agent into the bloodstream, which is then activated by a laser or other light source. PDT is typically used to treat early-stage mesothelioma that is confined to a specific area.
Gene therapy: Gene therapy is an experimental treatment that involves modifying a patient’s own cells to target and kill cancer cells. It is still in the early stages of development, but has shown promise in preclinical studies for the treatment of mesothelioma.
Palliative care: Palliative care is an approach to care that focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for patients with advanced or incurable cancer. It may include pain management, symptom control, emotional and spiritual support, and other services to help patients and their families cope with the challenges of cancer.
In summary, while bone marrow transplant may sometimes be used in the treatment of malignant mesothelioma, there are several other options available that may be considered depending on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. These include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, and palliative care. Patients with mesothelioma should work closely with their healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account their individual needs and goals.
