Greetings to all our readers! Today we are going to talk about an important topic that affects many people. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that can affect anyone, especially those who have been exposed to asbestos. One type of mesothelioma is peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the abdomen. If you or a loved one is dealing with this disease, it can be difficult to know where to turn for help. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top peritoneal mesothelioma doctors in the United States. We hope this information will be helpful to those who are searching for the best care.
What Is Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was commonly used in building materials until the 1980s. When asbestos is inhaled or ingested, it can become lodged in the lining of the abdomen and cause damage over time. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma can include abdominal pain, swelling, and weight loss.
What Are the Treatment Options for Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
Treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma usually involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The goal of treatment is to remove as much of the cancer as possible and to prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body. In some cases, clinical trials may be available for patients who have exhausted other treatment options.
Who Are the Top Peritoneal Mesothelioma Doctors?
The following doctors have been selected based on their expertise in treating peritoneal mesothelioma and their commitment to providing the best possible care for their patients.
| Name | Hospital Affiliation | Location |
|---|---|---|
| David L. Bartlett, MD | University of Pittsburgh Medical Center | Pittsburgh, PA |
| Paul H. Sugarbaker, MD | MedStar Washington Hospital Center | Washington, DC |
| H. Richard Alexander, Jr., MD | Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey | New Brunswick, NJ |
| Valerie W. Rusch, MD | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center | New York, NY |
| Karyn A. Goodman, MD | Oregon Health & Science University | Portland, OR |
David L. Bartlett, MD
Dr. Bartlett is a professor of surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the medical director of the UPMC Comprehensive Mesothelioma Program. He is an expert in the field of peritoneal mesothelioma and has pioneered several innovative treatments, including heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Dr. Bartlett is dedicated to providing personalized care to his patients and is committed to advancing the field of mesothelioma research.
Paul H. Sugarbaker, MD
Dr. Sugarbaker is the director of the Peritoneal Surface Malignancy Program at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. He is a pioneer in the field of peritoneal mesothelioma and has developed several surgical techniques for the treatment of this disease. Dr. Sugarbaker is known for his compassionate approach to patient care and his commitment to finding new and effective treatments for his patients.
H. Richard Alexander, Jr., MD
Dr. Alexander is the chief surgical officer and chief of the Division of Surgical Oncology at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. He is a leading expert in the treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma and has extensive experience performing complex surgical procedures. Dr. Alexander is committed to providing his patients with the highest quality care and is actively involved in clinical research to improve treatment outcomes.
Valerie W. Rusch, MD
Dr. Rusch is the chief of the Thoracic Surgery Service and the vice chair of Clinical Research in the Department of Surgery at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. She is a world-renowned expert in the treatment of mesothelioma and has authored several influential studies on the disease. Dr. Rusch is dedicated to improving treatment outcomes for her patients and is committed to advancing the field of mesothelioma research.
Karyn A. Goodman, MD
Dr. Goodman is a professor of medicine at Oregon Health & Science University and the director of the Multidisciplinary Thoracic Oncology Program. She is a leading expert in the treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma and has published several studies on the disease. Dr. Goodman is committed to providing personalized, compassionate care to her patients and is dedicated to improving treatment outcomes through clinical research.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Peritoneal Mesothelioma
1. What Causes Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
Peritoneal mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos.
2. What Are the Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma can include abdominal pain, swelling, and weight loss.
3. How Is Peritoneal Mesothelioma Diagnosed?
Peritoneal mesothelioma is usually diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests and biopsies.
4. What Are the Treatment Options for Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
Treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma usually involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
5. What Are the Side Effects of Treatment for Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
The side effects of treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma can vary depending on the specific treatment used, but may include fatigue, nausea, and hair loss.
6. What Is the Prognosis for Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
The prognosis for peritoneal mesothelioma depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer and the overall health of the patient. However, with appropriate treatment, some patients may live for several years after diagnosis.
7. What Should I Look for in a Doctor Who Treats Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
When looking for a doctor who treats peritoneal mesothelioma, it is important to find someone with experience in treating this rare disease. Look for a doctor who is knowledgeable about the latest treatment options and is committed to providing personalized, compassionate care.
8. What Is Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC)?
Heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a procedure that involves injecting heated chemotherapy drugs directly into the abdomen after surgery to remove cancerous tissue. The goal is to kill any remaining cancer cells and prevent the cancer from returning.
9. Are Clinical Trials Available for Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
Yes, clinical trials may be available for patients with peritoneal mesothelioma who have exhausted other treatment options.
10. Can Peritoneal Mesothelioma Be Cured?
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer, and there is currently no cure. However, with appropriate treatment, some patients may live for several years after diagnosis.
11. Is Peritoneal Mesothelioma the Same as Peritoneal Cancer?
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the abdomen. It is not the same as peritoneal cancer, which can refer to any cancer that originates in the lining of the abdomen.
12. How Can I Reduce My Risk of Developing Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
The best way to reduce your risk of developing peritoneal mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry that uses asbestos, be sure to take proper precautions to protect yourself from exposure.
13. Where Can I Find More Information About Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
For more information about peritoneal mesothelioma, you can visit the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation or the American Cancer Society.
Conclusion: Don’t Wait to Get Help
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, it’s important to seek help from a qualified doctor as soon as possible. The doctors listed here are among the best in the country and are dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care to their patients. Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact one of these doctors today and start your journey to recovery.
Closing Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The authors and publishers of this article make no representations or warranties about the accuracy or suitability of any information contained herein. Readers should rely solely on their own judgment when making healthcare decisions.
