Current approach to malignant mesothelioma of the pleura

Abstract

Malignant mesothelioma of the pleura occurs primarily in individuals who were exposed to asbestos either in the workplace or home. The incidence of malignant mesothelioma is rising and, reflective of the malignancy's long latency period, is expected to continue to increase into the next century. Current treatment measures, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, intrapleural therapy, and combined-modality therapies, have had varying impacts on survival. This paper explores current trends in the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma.