Malignant pleural mesothelioma: an update
Glaucia N. M. Hajj, Carolina Harumi Cavarson, Clóvis Antônio Lopes Pinto, Gabriela Venturi, João R. Navarro, Vladmir Cláudio Cordeiro de Lima
Abstract
Malignant mesotheliomas are rare types of cancers that affect the mesothelial surfaces, usually the pleura and peritoneum. They are associated with asbestos exposure, but due to a latency period of more than 30 years and difficult diagnosis, most cases are not detected until they reach advanced stages. Treatment options for this tumor type are very limited and survival ranges from 12 to 36 months. This review discusses the molecular physiopathology, current diagnosis, and latest therapeutic options for this disease.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineMesotheliomaPeritoneumAsbestosPleural diseaseMesothelial CellPathologyOncologyInternal medicineRespiratory diseaseLungMetallurgyMaterials scienceOccupational and environmental lung diseasesPleural and Pulmonary DiseasesInterstitial Lung Diseases and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis