Epithelioid Mesothelioma: Prognosis and Survival Rates
Understanding Epithelioid Mesothelioma
Epithelioid Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that affects the cells that form the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and heart. This type of mesothelioma accounts for the majority of mesothelioma diagnoses and is caused by exposure to asbestos.
The prognosis and survival rates of epithelioid mesothelioma depend on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the patient's age, overall health, and the patient's response to treatment.
Symptoms of Epithelioid Mesothelioma
The initial symptoms of epithelioid mesothelioma are often vague and can be mistaken for other respiratory illnesses, such as asthma or pneumonia. As the cancer progresses, the symptoms may become more severe and include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Persistent cough
- Lack of appetite
- Weight loss
- Night sweats
- Fever
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.
Diagnosing Epithelioid Mesothelioma
Diagnosing epithelioid mesothelioma can be challenging due to the nonspecific symptoms and the rarity of the cancer. Typically, doctors will perform a combination of imaging tests, blood tests, and biopsies to make a diagnosis. These tests may include:
- Chest X-ray
- CT Scan
- MRI Scan
- PET Scan
- Pulmonary Function Test
- Thoracoscopy
- Biopsy
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, the cancer is staged, and a treatment plan is developed based on the stage and overall health of the patient.
Treatment for Epithelioid Mesothelioma
Treatment for epithelioid mesothelioma depends on the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and other factors such as the patient's age and lifestyle. The most common treatments for epithelioid mesothelioma include:
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Palliative care
Surgery is often the preferred treatment for early-stage epithelioid mesothelioma. The goal of surgery is to remove the cancerous tissue and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are often used in combination with surgery or as standalone treatments to kill cancer cells and reduce the size of tumors.
Immunotherapy, a newer form of mesothelioma treatment, uses the body's immune system to fight cancer cells. Palliative care is also available to help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced-stage mesothelioma.
Prognosis and Survival Rates
The prognosis and survival rates for epithelioid mesothelioma depend on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the patient's age, and overall health. Unfortunately, there is no cure for mesothelioma, but early detection and aggressive treatment can help improve the prognosis and increase survival rates.
The five-year survival rate for mesothelioma is around 10%, but with early detection and aggressive treatment, the survival rate can increase significantly. The survival rates are higher for patients with early-stage mesothelioma, with up to a 50% survival rate for patients diagnosed in stage 1.
Conclusion
Epithelioid mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and heart. The symptoms are often vague and can be mistaken for other respiratory illnesses, making it challenging to diagnose. However, with early detection and aggressive treatment, the prognosis and survival rates can be improved. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms, please seek medical attention immediately.