Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing for many years. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for peritoneal mesothelioma, and treatment options are limited. However, there are some promising new treatments that are being developed and tested in clinical trials.
Surgery
Surgery is currently the most effective treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma, particularly when it is combined with other treatments. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible, which can help to improve symptoms and prolong survival. In some cases, surgery may be followed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC)
Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy, or HIPEC, is a relatively new treatment that has shown promising results in clinical trials. HIPEC involves heating chemotherapy drugs and infusing them directly into the abdomen, where they are able to penetrate the tumor more effectively. The heat also helps to kill cancer cells and improve the effectiveness of the chemotherapy. HIPEC is typically performed during surgery, immediately after the tumor has been removed.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that works by stimulating the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells. There are several different types of immunotherapy, including checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy, and vaccines. While immunotherapy has shown promise in treating other types of cancer, its effectiveness in peritoneal mesothelioma is still being studied.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that targets specific molecules or proteins that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. These drugs are designed to block the activity of these molecules, which can help to slow or stop the growth of the tumor. There are several targeted therapies that are currently being studied for peritoneal mesothelioma, including drugs that target the protein mesothelin and drugs that target the MAPK pathway.
Palliative Care
While there is no cure for peritoneal mesothelioma, palliative care can help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Palliative care can include pain management, nutrition support, and other therapies to help manage symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Palliative care can be provided alongside other treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy.
In conclusion, while there is currently no cure for peritoneal mesothelioma, there are several promising new treatments that are being developed and tested in clinical trials. These treatments include surgery, HIPEC, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and palliative care. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, it is important to work closely with your healthcare team to determine the best treatment plan for your specific situation.
