Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on NCCN Mesothelioma 2018! In this article, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about the latest treatment guidelines and recommendations for mesothelioma as updated by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) in 2018.
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused primarily by the exposure to asbestos fibers. It affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen and is known for its long latency period of 20-50 years, which makes early diagnosis difficult.
Mesothelioma is incurable, but early detection and multi-modality treatment can help patients extend their survival and improve quality of life. The NCCN is a non-profit organization that provides evidence-based cancer treatment guidelines to healthcare professionals in order to improve patient outcomes.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines and explore the latest recommendations for diagnosis, staging, and treatment of mesothelioma. We’ll also address some of the most frequently asked questions about mesothelioma and provide helpful resources for patients and caregivers.
NCCN Mesothelioma 2018: Updates and Recommendations
The NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines include comprehensive revisions and updates to the previous version published in 2017. The updated recommendations are based on the latest clinical evidence and expert consensus and aim to provide more personalized and effective treatment options for mesothelioma patients.
Diagnosis and Staging
The NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to mesothelioma diagnosis and staging. The recommended diagnostic procedures include imaging studies, biopsies, and biomarker testing. Staging is based on the extent of tumor spread and is essential for determining the appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment
The treatment options for mesothelioma patients depend on several factors, such as disease stage, location, and patient’s overall health status. The NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines recommend a multi-modality approach that combines surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy for optimal outcomes. Here are some key recommendations for each treatment modality:
Surgery
Surgery is a primary treatment option for mesothelioma patients who are eligible for curative intent. The NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines provide detailed recommendations for different types of surgery, such as pleurectomy and decortication (P/D), extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP), and cytoreductive surgery with or without hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is used to shrink tumors and relieve mesothelioma symptoms, such as pain and shortness of breath. The NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines recommend different types of radiation therapy, such as external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), depending on the patient’s disease stage and location.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. The NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines provide recommendations for different chemotherapy regimens, such as cisplatin and pemetrexed, and highlight the importance of individualized dosing and supportive care to minimize side effects.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a promising new treatment modality that uses the patient’s own immune system to fight cancer. The NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines recommend immunotherapy for mesothelioma patients who have progressed after prior treatments, and provide guidance on different immunotherapy agents, such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab.
Follow-up and Surveillance
The NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines stress the importance of long-term follow-up and surveillance for mesothelioma patients, even after successful treatment. The recommended follow-up procedures include imaging studies, biomarker testing, and symptom assessment, and aim to detect disease recurrence or progression as early as possible.
NCCN Mesothelioma 2018: Complete Information Table
| Topic | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Diagnosis | Multidisciplinary approach, imaging studies, biopsies, biomarker testing |
| Staging | Based on the extent of tumor spread |
| Surgery | P/D, EPP, cytoreductive surgery with or without HIPEC |
| Radiation Therapy | EBRT, IMRT |
| Chemotherapy | Cisplatin and pemetrexed |
| Immunotherapy | Pembrolizumab, nivolumab |
| Follow-up | Imaging studies, biomarker testing, symptom assessment |
Frequently Asked Questions about NCCN Mesothelioma 2018
1. What is the NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines?
The NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines are evidence-based treatment recommendations for mesothelioma, as published by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. They aim to improve patient outcomes and provide healthcare professionals with current and personalized treatment options.
2. What causes mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos fibers, which can enter the body through inhalation or ingestion. Other risk factors may include genetics, age, and gender.
3. What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
The symptoms of mesothelioma may include cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, weight loss, and fever. However, many patients may not experience any symptoms until the later stages of the disease.
4. How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
Mesothelioma is diagnosed through a series of diagnostic procedures, such as imaging studies, biopsies, and biomarker testing. A multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals may be involved in the diagnosis and staging process.
5. What are the treatment options for mesothelioma?
Treatment options for mesothelioma may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, depending on several factors, such as disease stage, location, and patient’s overall health status. The NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines provide updated and comprehensive treatment recommendations for mesothelioma patients.
6. How can I find a mesothelioma specialist?
You can find a mesothelioma specialist through various resources, such as the NCCN Member Institutions, the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, and the National Cancer Institute-designated cancer centers. It’s important to seek care from experienced and knowledgeable healthcare professionals who specialize in mesothelioma treatment.
7. What can I do to prevent mesothelioma?
The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos fibers. This can be done by following safety precautions in the workplace, such as wearing protective equipment and clothing, and avoiding renovation or demolition of older buildings that may contain asbestos.
8. How long can a mesothelioma patient live?
The prognosis for mesothelioma patients depends on several factors, such as disease stage, location, and patient’s overall health status. However, early detection and multi-modality treatment can help improve survival and quality of life.
9. What are the side effects of mesothelioma treatment?
The side effects of mesothelioma treatment may vary depending on the type of treatment and patient’s overall health status. Common side effects may include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and skin rash. It’s important to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider and receive appropriate supportive care.
10. Can mesothelioma be cured?
Mesothelioma is currently incurable, but early detection and multi-modality treatment can help extend survival and improve quality of life. The NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines provide updated and comprehensive recommendations for mesothelioma treatment.
11. Are there any new mesothelioma treatments on the horizon?
Research on new mesothelioma treatments, such as gene therapy and targeted therapy, is ongoing, and clinical trials may be available for eligible patients. It’s important to discuss potential treatment options with your healthcare provider and seek care from experienced and knowledgeable specialists.
12. What resources are available for mesothelioma patients and caregivers?
Several resources are available for mesothelioma patients and caregivers, such as support groups, advocacy organizations, and financial assistance programs. The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation and the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization are two examples of organizations that provide helpful resources and support for mesothelioma patients and families.
13. How can I get involved in mesothelioma advocacy and research?
You can get involved in mesothelioma advocacy and research by donating to organizations that support mesothelioma research and patient care, participating in awareness events and campaigns, and volunteering for clinical trials or other research studies. Your support can make a difference in the lives of mesothelioma patients and their families.
Conclusion
The NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines provide updated and evidence-based treatment recommendations for mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused primarily by exposure to asbestos fibers. The guidelines emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to mesothelioma diagnosis and staging, and recommend a multi-modality treatment approach that includes surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy for optimal outcomes. It’s important to seek care from experienced and knowledgeable healthcare professionals who specialize in mesothelioma treatment and to receive appropriate supportive care.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, don’t lose hope. Early detection and treatment can help improve survival and quality of life. The NCCN Mesothelioma 2018 guidelines provide helpful and comprehensive information for healthcare professionals, patients, and caregivers, and can serve as an essential resource in the fight against mesothelioma.
Closing Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. The authors and publishers of this article are not responsible for any damages or consequences that may arise from the use, misuse, or interpretation of the information contained in this article.
