Introduction: What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is an aggressive and rare cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was commonly used in industrial and construction materials until it was banned in most countries in the 1980s. The disease can take 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos, and it is often diagnosed at advanced stages when treatment options are limited.
Matthew Steliga MD is a renowned thoracic surgeon and oncologist who specializes in the treatment of mesothelioma. With over 15 years of experience in the field, Dr. Steliga has helped hundreds of patients with mesothelioma to improve their quality of life and prolong survival.
Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Diagnosing mesothelioma can be challenging, as its symptoms are similar to other respiratory conditions. Common symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent cough, fatigue, and weight loss. If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past and are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor who specializes in mesothelioma.
To diagnose mesothelioma, doctors use a combination of tests, including imaging scans, biopsies, blood tests, and pulmonary function tests. Once mesothelioma is diagnosed, it is essential to seek treatment from a specialist who has experience with the disease, such as Dr. Steliga.
Treatment Options for Mesothelioma
The treatment of mesothelioma depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease, the location of the cancer, and the overall health of the patient. There are several treatment options for mesothelioma, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.
Surgery is the most effective treatment for mesothelioma, especially if the cancer is caught at an early stage. Dr. Steliga is an expert in surgical options for mesothelioma, including extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP), pleurectomy with decortication (P/D), and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).
Chemotherapy is often used in combination with surgery to help kill cancer cells and prevent the spread of the disease. Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Immunotherapy is a newer treatment option that helps to boost the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells.
Matthew Steliga MD: Expert in Mesothelioma Treatment
Dr. Matthew Steliga is a board-certified thoracic surgeon and oncologist who specializes in the treatment of mesothelioma. He has a vast experience in performing surgeries for mesothelioma and is known for his expertise, compassion, and excellent patient care. Dr. Steliga is also actively involved in mesothelioma research and has published several articles in leading medical journals.
Dr. Steliga works closely with a team of healthcare professionals, including radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and pulmonologists, to provide personalized treatment plans for each patient. His approach to patient care is comprehensive, integrating therapeutic modalities to provide the most effective and individualized treatment possible.
Table: Matthew Steliga MD Mesothelioma Profile
| Full Name: | Matthew Steliga |
|---|---|
| Medical Degree: | MD |
| Specialties: | Thoracic Surgery, Oncology |
| Years of Experience: | 15+ |
| Education: | University of Missouri School of Medicine |
| Location: | Columbia, Missouri |
| Affiliations: | Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, University of Missouri Health Care |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the survival rates for mesothelioma?
The survival rate for mesothelioma depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease, the location of the cancer, and the overall health of the patient. On average, the 5-year survival rate for mesothelioma is around 10-15%, but it can vary widely from patient to patient.
Is there a cure for mesothelioma?
Currently, there is no cure for mesothelioma, but there are several treatment options that can help to improve the quality of life and prolong survival.
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
Common symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent cough, fatigue, and weight loss. These symptoms can be similar to other respiratory conditions.
What causes mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was commonly used in industrial and construction materials until it was banned in most countries in the 1980s.
How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
To diagnose mesothelioma, doctors use a combination of tests, including imaging scans, biopsies, blood tests, and pulmonary function tests.
What are the treatment options for mesothelioma?
The treatment of mesothelioma depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease, the location of the cancer, and the overall health of the patient. There are several treatment options for mesothelioma, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.
What is extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP)?
Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) is a surgical procedure that involves removing the affected lung, the lining of the chest cavity, and the diaphragm. EPP is a highly invasive procedure that is typically reserved for patients with early-stage mesothelioma.
What is pleurectomy with decortication (P/D)?
Pleurectomy with decortication (P/D) is a less invasive surgical procedure that involves removing the lining of the chest cavity and any visible tumors. P/D is typically performed in patients with early-stage mesothelioma.
What is video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS)?
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a tiny camera and several small incisions to remove tumors and tissues from the chest cavity. VATS is used in patients with early-stage mesothelioma.
What is chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be administered orally or intravenously and is often used in combination with other treatments.
What is radiation therapy?
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy can be delivered externally or internally, depending on the location of the cancer.
What is immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a newer treatment option that helps to boost the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. Immunotherapy can be administered in several ways, including intravenously and orally.
How do I choose the right doctor for mesothelioma treatment?
Choosing the right doctor for mesothelioma treatment is critical to your chances of survival and quality of life. Look for a doctor who specializes in the treatment of mesothelioma and has significant experience in the field, like Dr. Steliga. Also, check the doctor’s credentials, affiliations, and online reviews from other patients.
What should I expect during mesothelioma treatment?
Mesothelioma treatment can be intense and emotionally draining. Patients should expect to undergo several tests, surgeries, and treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Dr. Steliga and his team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and goals.
How can I support a loved one with mesothelioma?
Social and emotional support can be critical to a patient’s journey with mesothelioma. Offer emotional support in any way you can, whether it is listening to them, helping them with tasks, or just spending time together. You can also help them find support groups, resources, and treatment options, like Dr. Steliga
Conclusion: Take Action Today
Mesothelioma is a challenging and complex disease, but with the right treatment, it is possible to improve survival rates and quality of life. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, don’t hesitate to seek help from a specialist like Matthew Steliga MD. With his vast experience in the field, Dr. Steliga can provide you with the individualized and compassionate care that you need to fight this disease.
If you are concerned about mesothelioma, reach out to a doctor who specializes in the disease and seek early diagnosis and treatment. Together, we can work towards a future where mesothelioma is no longer a life-threatening disease.
Closing/Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Matthew Steliga MD or any affiliated institutions.
