An Introduction to the University of Chicago Cancer Center Mesothelioma Treatment
Welcome to this informative article about mesothelioma treatment at the University of Chicago Cancer Center. First and foremost, let’s discuss what mesothelioma is and why it is important to know what treatment options are available. Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops in the thin layer of tissue that covers the majority of our internal organs. This cancer is often linked to exposure to asbestos, and those who have been exposed to asbestos at some point in their lives are most at risk of developing mesothelioma.
As with any cancer, early diagnosis is key to successful treatment. The goal of mesothelioma treatment is to remove or shrink the tumors and prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. Mesothelioma treatment at the University of Chicago Cancer Center is tailored to each patient’s individual needs and is designed to provide the best possible outcome.
In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of the mesothelioma treatment options available at the University of Chicago Cancer Center. We will also provide answers to frequently asked questions about mesothelioma and its treatment.
University of Chicago Cancer Center Mesothelioma Treatment Options
The University of Chicago Cancer Center offers a variety of mesothelioma treatment options, including:
| Treatment | Description |
|---|---|
| Surgery | The surgical removal of tumors and affected tissue is the most common treatment for mesothelioma. |
| Chemotherapy | Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with surgery. |
| Radiation Therapy | Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is often used as a standalone treatment or in combination with surgery and chemotherapy. |
| Immunotherapy | Immunotherapy is a newer form of cancer treatment that uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. |
Each patient’s treatment plan is unique and may include one or more of these treatment options.
Surgery
Surgery is often the first line of treatment for mesothelioma. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the cancer as possible. There are several surgical procedures that may be used to treat mesothelioma, including:
- Pleurectomy/decortication (P/D): This surgery removes the pleura, or the lining of the lungs, as well as any visible tumors.
- Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP): This surgery removes one entire lung and the pleura, as well as other affected tissue.
- Peritonectomy: This surgery is used to remove tumors that have spread to the abdominal lining.
Surgical treatment of mesothelioma is complex and requires a highly skilled surgical team. The University of Chicago Cancer Center has a team of experienced surgeons who specialize in the treatment of mesothelioma.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is often used in conjunction with surgery to kill remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy drugs may be given orally or intravenously. The type of chemotherapy used will depend on the stage and progress of the cancer.
The University of Chicago Cancer Center uses the latest chemotherapy drugs and treatment protocols to ensure the best possible outcome for each patient.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with surgery and/or chemotherapy. Radiation therapy can be targeted specifically to the affected area, reducing damage to healthy tissue.
The University of Chicago Cancer Center uses the latest radiation therapy technology, including image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), to provide the most effective treatment for mesothelioma.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy uses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer cells. The University of Chicago Cancer Center offers a variety of immunotherapy treatments, including:
- Checkpoint inhibitors: These drugs help activate the immune system’s T cells to attack cancer cells.
- Cancer vaccines: These vaccines are designed to stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells.
- Adoptive cell transfer: This treatment involves removing T cells from a patient, modifying them in a lab to attack cancer cells, and then infusing them back into the patient.
Immunotherapy has shown promise in treating mesothelioma, and the University of Chicago Cancer Center is at the forefront of research in this area.
Frequently Asked Questions About University of Chicago Cancer Center Mesothelioma Treatment
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
The symptoms of mesothelioma can include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, and fatigue. These symptoms may not appear until 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos.
How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to other, more common respiratory diseases. Diagnosis usually involves imaging tests such as X-ray, CT scan or MRI, and a biopsy to obtain a tissue sample for analysis.
What causes mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction and other industries until the 1980s.
Is mesothelioma treatable?
Yes, mesothelioma is treatable, and early detection is important to successful treatment. The University of Chicago Cancer Center offers a variety of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.
What is the prognosis for mesothelioma?
The prognosis for mesothelioma varies depending on the stage and progress of the cancer at the time of diagnosis. However, with the latest treatment options available at the University of Chicago Cancer Center, many patients are able to achieve significant improvement in quality of life and increased lifespan.
Is the University of Chicago Cancer Center experienced in treating mesothelioma?
Yes, the University of Chicago Cancer Center has a team of highly experienced oncologists and surgeons who specialize in the treatment of mesothelioma.
What is the cost of mesothelioma treatment at the University of Chicago Cancer Center?
The cost of mesothelioma treatment at the University of Chicago Cancer Center will depend on the individual’s treatment plan and insurance coverage. The center has financial assistance programs available for those who need help covering the cost of treatment.
Can I participate in a clinical trial for mesothelioma treatment at the University of Chicago Cancer Center?
Yes, the University of Chicago Cancer Center has a variety of ongoing clinical trials for mesothelioma treatment. Your doctor can help you determine if you are eligible to participate in a clinical trial.
What should I expect during mesothelioma treatment?
Mesothelioma treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or immunotherapy. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your individual needs and may involve one or more of these options. Your medical team will provide you with detailed information about what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
What is the recovery time for mesothelioma treatment?
The recovery time for mesothelioma treatment will depend on the individual and the type of treatment involved. Surgery may require a longer recovery time than chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Your doctor can give you a better idea of what to expect in terms of recovery time based on your individual treatment plan.
What can I do to reduce my risk of developing mesothelioma?
The most effective way to reduce your risk of developing mesothelioma is to avoid
exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry that uses asbestos or may have been exposed to asbestos in the past, talk to your doctor about regular screenings for mesothelioma.
How can I contact the University of Chicago Cancer Center?
You can contact the University of Chicago Cancer Center by phone at (773) 702-8222 or visit their website at www.uchicagomedicine.org.
How can I support mesothelioma research at the University of Chicago Cancer Center?
You can support mesothelioma research at the University of Chicago Cancer Center by making a donation to the Mesothelioma Program. Your donation will help support research, treatment, and patient care for those affected by mesothelioma.
Conclusion
We hope this article has provided you with a detailed overview of mesothelioma treatment options at the University of Chicago Cancer Center. Remember, early detection is key to successful treatment, so if you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, talk to your doctor about regular screenings.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the University of Chicago Cancer Center is here to help. Our experienced team of oncologists and surgeons can provide you with the latest and most effective treatment options available.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article, and we wish you the best of health.
Disclaimer
The information contained in 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.
