Laura A. Lambert MD Mesothelioma: Understanding the Disease and Treatment Options

The Devastating Impact of Mesothelioma

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive cancer that affects the mesothelium, the protective lining covering the lungs, chest cavity, and abdomen. This debilitating disease is typically caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos, a mineral used in the construction, automotive, and manufacturing industries. Despite its low prevalence, mesothelioma is a serious health threat that requires immediate attention and specialized care.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to seek the guidance of a qualified and experienced physician like Dr. Laura A. Lambert. With over two decades of experience in diagnosing and treating mesothelioma patients, Dr. Lambert is a renowned expert in the field, providing compassionate and personalized care to those affected by this devastating disease.

Who is Dr. Laura A. Lambert?

Dr. Laura A. Lambert is a board-certified medical oncologist and hematologist with extensive expertise in diagnosing and treating mesothelioma. She completed her medical training at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and went on to complete her residency at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where she also served as chief resident in internal medicine. Dr. Lambert is currently a clinical professor at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and serves as the medical director of the Cancer Therapy and Research Center.

Dr. Lambert is a highly respected physician and researcher, with numerous publications and presentations on mesothelioma and other cancers to her credit. She is also a member of several medical societies, including the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC).

The Importance of Early Detection and Treatment

Early detection and treatment are critical in improving the prognosis and survival rates of mesothelioma patients. However, due to its long latency period and non-specific symptoms, mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose until it has reached an advanced stage. That’s why it’s essential to seek medical attention if you have a history of asbestos exposure or experience any of the following symptoms:

Symptoms of Mesothelioma	Emojis
Chest pain and tightness	🫁💔
Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing	🌬️🥵
Fatigue and weakness	😴💤
Unexplained weight loss	🏋️‍♀️📉
Persistent cough and hoarseness	🤧🗣️

Mesothelioma Diagnosis and Staging

Diagnosing mesothelioma typically involves a combination of imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, as well as a biopsy to examine tissue samples under a microscope. If mesothelioma is suspected, Dr. Lambert may also perform other tests to determine the extent and stage of the disease, such as:

1. Pulmonary Function Tests

These tests evaluate how well your lungs are functioning and can help Dr. Lambert determine the best treatment approach for your specific case.

2. Blood Tests

Dr. Lambert may order blood tests to look for biomarkers, such as mesothelin and osteopontin, which can indicate the presence of mesothelioma.

3. Thoracoscopy or Laparoscopy

These minimally invasive procedures involve inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera and lighting system into the chest or abdomen to obtain tissue samples for biopsy.

Treatment Options for Mesothelioma

The treatment options for mesothelioma depend on several factors, including the stage and location of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and their personal preferences. Dr. Lambert may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

1. Surgery

Surgery is often used to remove as much of the cancerous tissue as possible and can include procedures such as pleurectomy, which removes the affected lung lining, or extrapleural pneumonectomy, which removes the entire lung and lining.

2. Radiation Therapy

Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors. Dr. Lambert may recommend external beam radiation therapy or brachytherapy, which involves placing radioactive seeds directly into the tumor.

3. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful medications to kill cancer cells and reduce tumor growth. Dr. Lambert may recommend systemic chemotherapy or intracavitary chemotherapy, which is delivered directly into the chest or abdomen.

4. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer and can include medications such as checkpoint inhibitors or CAR-T cell therapy.

Mesothelioma FAQs

1. What Causes Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials and other industrial products until the 1980s.

2. Who is at Risk for Mesothelioma?

Individuals who work or have worked in industries that use or produce asbestos are at the highest risk for mesothelioma. This includes construction workers, mechanics, shipbuilders, and military veterans.

3. What are the Different Types of Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is categorized based on its location in the body, with the most common types being pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs, and peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the abdomen.

4. How is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?

Mesothelioma is typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests and a biopsy to examine tissue samples under a microscope.

5. What is the Prognosis for Mesothelioma?

The prognosis for mesothelioma depends on several factors, including the stage and location of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and their response to treatment. However, the average life expectancy for mesothelioma patients is around 12 to 21 months.

6. Is Mesothelioma Treatable?

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, there are several treatments available that can improve quality of life and prolong survival. These include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.

7. How Can I Prevent Mesothelioma?

The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you work or have worked in an industry that uses or produces asbestos, be sure to follow all safety guidelines and wear protective gear.

Take Action Today: Contact Dr. Laura A. Lambert

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Laura A. Lambert for expert guidance and care. With her extensive experience and compassionate approach, she can help you navigate this difficult journey and find the best treatment options for your specific needs.

Call us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a brighter future.

Closing Disclaimer

The information in this article is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have about a medical condition. Mesothelioma is a serious disease that requires specialized care, and the information in this article is intended to provide a general overview only.