Mesothelioma

Overview

Mesothelioma represents less than 1 percent of all cancers. It is rarely seen in smaller medical centers, where on average, a physician may see two cases in her/his career. At Mayo Clinic, three to four new cases are seen every month. Diagnosis and treatment of this cancer can be difficult, and proper management of the disease often includes evaluation at large medical centers by specialists more experienced in standard and experimental treatments for the disease.

Physicians from all over the world refer patients with mesothelioma to Mayo Clinic. Mayo's strength lies in the ability to quickly assemble a team of experts from several areas, such as pulmonary medicine, thoracic surgery, oncology (cancer), radiation therapy and pathology who work with the patient to obtain a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan — usually within a few days.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing mesothelioma is often difficult because the symptoms are similar to those of numerous other conditions. Mayo Clinic has an experienced staff and the latest technologies for making an accurate diagnosis. Read more about diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient's age and general health. Standard treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. At Mayo Clinic experimental treatments are also available for patients who meet the requirements. Read more about treatment options.

• Treatment in Arizona
• Treatment in Florida
• Treatment in Minnesota

About Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer of the membranes lining the chest, abdominal cavities or heart. It is most commonly associated with high exposures to asbestos, although other causes such as radiation and other cancer have occasionally been implicated. Mesothelioma may occur 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos.

Read more at
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