Science Update: New Hope for Mesothelioma Patients
A new statistical analysis shows promise to help assist doctors in identifying mesothelioma patients who can benefit from advancing modes of surgical treatment.
Doctors and researchers continue to look for ways to help victims suffering from the rare cancer known as malignant mesothelioma. According to a new article in the September 2015 issue of the Annals of Thoracic Surgery, a statistical model has been developed that can help predict which patients can benefit from cutting-edge surgical treatment.
Pleural malignant mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the lining of the chest cavity or “pleura.” The well-known primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once widely used in industrial and factory settings because of its heat-resistant properties. As many as several thousand cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the United States each year.
According to the article, key factors for doctors to review in deciding the best therapy for mesothelioma victims includes looking at the patient’s age, the exact subtype of disease, and the status of affected lymph nodes. While further studies are needed, the new statistical model shows great promise to help healthcare professionals.
The article is entitled, “Prognostic Score of Long-Term Survival After Surgery for Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: A Multicenter Analysis” and more information is available at the website for the Annals of Thoracic Surgery, https://www.
***** The attorneys at Wallace & Graham continue to monitor the latest science and medical findings to help provide legal assistance to victims of mesothelioma. If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos or has an asbestos-related disease such as mesothelioma, asbestosis or other respiratory injury, please call and ask to speak with one of the experienced attorneys. We can be reached nationwide at 1-800-849-5291.
