Understanding OHSU Mesothelioma: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

🚑 Did you know that mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive cancer caused by exposure to asbestos? Each year, thousands of people are diagnosed with this deadly disease, and unfortunately, many cases are not detected until it is too late.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. One of the most renowned healthcare institutions in the United States for mesothelioma treatment is the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). In this article, we will explore what mesothelioma is, how it manifests, and what OHSU does to provide world-class treatment for patients with mesothelioma.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells, which are a thin layer of tissue that covers most of our internal organs. The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs. Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the abdominal cavity, and pericardial mesothelioma, which affects the heart.

The primary cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction and building materials before the 1980s. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become trapped in the mesothelial cells, causing inflammation and mutation of the cells, leading to cancer.

OHSU Mesothelioma Clinic

🏥 The OHSU Knight Cancer Institute is home to one of the leading mesothelioma clinics in the United States, offering a multidisciplinary approach to treatment and care. OHSU is dedicated to providing the best possible care for patients with mesothelioma, with a team of experts in surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, and radiology working together to create a personalized treatment plan for each patient.

Treatment Options	Description
Surgery	OHSU offers a range of surgical options for mesothelioma, including lung-sparing procedures, extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP), and pleurectomy/decortication (P/D).
Chemotherapy	OHSU uses a combination of chemotherapy drugs to target mesothelioma cells and reduce tumor growth.
Radiation Therapy	OHSU utilizes advanced radiation therapy techniques, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and proton therapy, to target mesothelioma tumors while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
Immunotherapy	OHSU is at the forefront of research into immunotherapy treatments for mesothelioma, using drugs like pembrolizumab and nivolumab to boost the immune system’s ability to fight cancer.

FAQs

What Are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer but may include shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, weight loss, and coughing.

How Is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?

Mesothelioma diagnosis typically involves a combination of imaging scans, blood tests, and biopsies to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

What Are the Stages of Mesothelioma?

There are four stages of mesothelioma, with stage 1 being the least advanced and stage 4 being the most advanced.

What Are the Risk Factors for Mesothelioma?

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, although other factors such as smoking and radiation exposure may also increase the risk.

How Is Mesothelioma Treated?

Mesothelioma treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these approaches. The most appropriate treatment plan will depend on the stage and type of mesothelioma, as well as the patient’s overall health.

Is Mesothelioma Curable?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer, and there is currently no known cure. However, early detection and treatment can help improve the chances of survival and prolong the patient’s life.

Is OHSU Mesothelioma Clinic Accepting New Patients?

Yes, OHSU Mesothelioma Clinic is currently accepting new patients. Patients can call 503-494-1080 to schedule an appointment.

What Sets OHSU Mesothelioma Clinic Apart from Other Cancer Centers?

OHSU Mesothelioma Clinic offers a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, with a team of experts from different specialties working together to provide personalized care for each patient. OHSU is also at the forefront of mesothelioma research, with ongoing clinical trials and groundbreaking treatments being developed.

What Should I Do If I Have Been Exposed to Asbestos?

If you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to get medical attention and undergo testing for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. It is also crucial to avoid further exposure to asbestos to reduce the risk of developing mesothelioma.

Can I File a Lawsuit for Mesothelioma?

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and believe it was caused by asbestos exposure, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the responsible parties. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

How Can I Support Mesothelioma Research?

There are many ways to support mesothelioma research, including making a donation to organizations like the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, participating in clinical trials, and spreading awareness about mesothelioma and its causes.

What Can I Expect During Mesothelioma Treatment?

Mesothelioma treatment can be challenging, and each patient’s experience will be different. However, patients can expect to undergo a series of tests and procedures to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment. Treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these approaches, and patients may experience side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and hair loss.

How Long Is the Mesothelioma Treatment Process?

The length of mesothelioma treatment will depend on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the patient’s response to treatment. In general, mesothelioma treatment can last several months to a year or more.

What Happens After Mesothelioma Treatment?

After completing mesothelioma treatment, patients will need to undergo regular checkups and testing to monitor for any signs of recurrence or new cancer growth. It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid further exposure to asbestos or other carcinogens.

Conclusion

🏥 OHSU Mesothelioma Clinic is dedicated to providing the best possible care for patients with mesothelioma, with a team of experts from different specialties working together to create a personalized treatment plan for each patient. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is crucial.

👍 We hope this article has been informative and helpful in understanding mesothelioma and the treatment options available at OHSU Mesothelioma Clinic. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Closing or Disclaimer

🙏 This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease or condition. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding mesothelioma or any other medical condition.