* Stage 1 Mesothelioma

    An early diagnosis of mesothelioma signifies the cancer is localized in one part of the body. In pleural mesothelioma cases, this denotes that the tumors are localized to only one lung. Doctors will utilize a combination of CT scans, X-rays, MRIs and biopsies in order to obtain an accurate picture of the disease. Patients who are diagnosed with Stage 1 mesothelioma typically have an average life span of 32 months.

   Doctors frequently employ a multi-modality approach to aggressively treat mesothelioma in its early stages, and a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery is sometimes used. The Mesothelioma Center's Doctor Match program provides patients with a unique service to seek treatment from the best mesothelioma doctors.

 - Symptoms of Stage 1 Mesothelioma

    Cases of mesothelioma in the early stages are usually accompanied by a large pleural effusion, or buildup of fluid in the pleural space. In most cases, there is very little pleural thickening. At this stage, the tumors have not invaded the chest wall, diaphragm or other parts of the body.

   Significant symptoms are usually not present in patients with early stage mesothelioma. Symptoms such as pneumonia, a high fever, weight loss and chest pain similar to pleural effusions may occur. Hemoptysis, or coughing up blood in the sputum, may also take place. Because of the long latency period associated with mesothelioma, symptoms are rarely present until the later stages.

 - Treatment of Stage 1 Mesothelioma

    Because Stage 1 mesothelioma is localized, patients are able to take part in aggressive treatments to remove the cancerous tumors. Surgery is one of these aggressive treatment options available to patients who are diagnosed with an early stage of mesothelioma. Through surgery, doctors are able to remove major portions of the cancer to prevent further metastasis.

    Dr. Robert Cameron has pioneered a new surgery treatment for early stage mesothelioma patients, called pleurectomy/decortication. The surgery, which removes only the tumor and the surrounding pleura, will allow the patient to continue using the affected lung. Studies have shown that patients who undergo this procedure enjoy a better quality of life and have a longer life expectancy.

source : http://www.asbestos.com