Peritoneal Mesothelioma Susan Reese Burke: A Comprehensive Guide

The Story of Susan Reese Burke

Susan Reese Burke was a vibrant and energetic woman who enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Unfortunately, in 2013, she was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the abdomen. Despite her diagnosis, Susan remained hopeful and determined to fight her disease.

After undergoing a rigorous treatment regimen that included surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, Susan’s cancer went into remission. She remained cancer-free for several years until her cancer returned in 2018. Despite her best efforts, Susan passed away in December of that year, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and hope.

What is Peritoneal Mesothelioma?

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the abdomen, known as the peritoneum. It is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers, which can become lodged in the peritoneum and cause inflammation and scarring. Over time, this can lead to the development of cancerous cells.

Peritoneal mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose because its symptoms can mimic those of many other conditions. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, loss of appetite, weight loss, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms may not appear until many years after exposure to asbestos.

Who is at Risk of Developing Peritoneal Mesothelioma?

People who have worked in jobs where they were exposed to asbestos are at the greatest risk of developing peritoneal mesothelioma. These jobs include construction, mining, shipbuilding, and automotive repair. Second-hand exposure can also increase the risk of developing the disease.

Other risk factors include living in a home with asbestos-containing materials, using talc products contaminated with asbestos, and having a family history of mesothelioma.

How is Peritoneal Mesothelioma Diagnosed?

Peritoneal mesothelioma is usually diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests, such as CT scans and MRI scans, and biopsy tests, which involve removing a sample of tissue from the affected area and examining it under a microscope.

Because peritoneal mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose, doctors may also use blood tests to look for biomarkers that indicate the presence of the disease.

What are the Treatment Options for Peritoneal Mesothelioma?

Treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma usually involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Surgery may involve removing as much of the cancerous tissue as possible, while chemotherapy and radiation can help to kill any remaining cancer cells.

Other treatment options include immunotherapy, which uses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer, and targeted therapy, which uses drugs to target specific cancer cells.

What is the Prognosis for Peritoneal Mesothelioma?

The prognosis for peritoneal mesothelioma varies depending on the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis and the overall health of the patient. Unfortunately, peritoneal mesothelioma is often diagnosed at a late stage, which can make it more difficult to treat.

However, there are many cases of patients who have successfully fought peritoneal mesothelioma and gone into remission. With early diagnosis and aggressive treatment, the prognosis for peritoneal mesothelioma can be improved.

Table: Peritoneal Mesothelioma Susan Reese Burke Information

Type of Cancer	Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Name of Patient	Susan Reese Burke
Date of Diagnosis	2013
Date of Death	December 2018
Treatment	Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation
Risk Factors	Asbestos exposure, family history of mesothelioma
Prognosis	Varies depending on stage and overall health of patient

Frequently Asked Questions About Peritoneal Mesothelioma Susan Reese Burke

1. What are the early signs of peritoneal mesothelioma?

Early signs of peritoneal mesothelioma may include abdominal pain, bloating, and loss of appetite.

2. Is peritoneal mesothelioma curable?

Peritoneal mesothelioma is often difficult to cure, but with early diagnosis and aggressive treatment, some patients are able to go into remission.

3. How is peritoneal mesothelioma diagnosed?

Peritoneal mesothelioma is usually diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests and biopsy tests.

4. Is peritoneal mesothelioma hereditary?

While peritoneal mesothelioma is not hereditary, having a family history of mesothelioma can increase the risk of developing the disease.

5. How long can you live with peritoneal mesothelioma?

The prognosis for peritoneal mesothelioma varies depending on the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis and the overall health of the patient.

6. What are the risk factors for peritoneal mesothelioma?

Risk factors for peritoneal mesothelioma include exposure to asbestos, living in a home with asbestos-containing materials, and using talc products contaminated with asbestos.

7. What is the treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma?

Treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma usually involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

8. What is the survival rate for peritoneal mesothelioma?

The survival rate for peritoneal mesothelioma varies depending on the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis and the overall health of the patient.

9. Can peritoneal mesothelioma be prevented?

Peritoneal mesothelioma can be prevented by avoiding exposure to asbestos fibers.

10. How common is peritoneal mesothelioma?

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, accounting for less than 20% of all mesothelioma cases.

11. What is the difference between peritoneal mesothelioma and pleural mesothelioma?

Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the lining of the abdomen, while pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs.

12. What is the most effective treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma?

The most effective treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma depends on the stage of the disease and the overall health of the patient. Treatment often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

13. Can peritoneal mesothelioma be treated with immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy is a promising treatment option for peritoneal mesothelioma, but it may not be effective for all patients. Consult with a doctor to determine if immunotherapy is right for you.

Conclusion

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the abdomen. Despite being difficult to diagnose and treat, there are many cases of patients who have successfully fought the disease and gone into remission. It is important to be aware of the risk factors and symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma and to seek medical attention if you believe you may be affected.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, please consult with a qualified medical professional to discuss your treatment options.

Disclaimer

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult with a qualified medical professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.