4 Stages of Pleural Mesothelioma
Posted on: October 9, 2023The stages of pleural mesothelioma
September 30, 2023
The stages represent the progression and spread of the disease:
- Stage 1: At this early stage, the tumor is localized to the pleura of one lung. This means the cancer has not spread and is only present in the lining of one lung. Treatment at this stage can be more effective than at later stages, and surgery may be a viable option for eligible patients.
- Stage 2: The cancer has started to spread to nearby structures. When mesothelioma reaches the nearby lymph nodes, it is more difficult to treat, though localized treatments and some surgeries may still be options.
- Stage 3: By this stage, the tumors have spread more extensively, invading deeper into nearby tissues, organs, and into distant lymph nodes. This often involves areas beyond the pleura, such as the chest wall, mediastinum, or even the diaphragm. Treatment might focus more on controlling symptoms and slowing the spread rather than attempting to remove the cancer.
- Stage 4: This is the most advanced stage of mesothelioma. The cancer has metastasized, meaning it has spread to distant parts of the body. This could involve other organs like the liver, bones, or even the opposite lung. Treatment at this stage is usually palliative, focusing on symptom relief and improving quality of life.
It’s important to note that the prognosis worsens as the stage number increases. Earlier detection, while challenging due to the long latency period of mesothelioma and its nonspecific symptoms, offers the best chance for more effective treatments