Multimodal Therapy for Mesothelioma Cancer

Multimodal therapy for mesothelioma cancer is a combination of two or more different treatment types. Researchers have found that using more than one therapy provides better patient results. The most commonly used treatments are chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.

If you or a loved one suffer from mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for substantial compensation. Currently, there is over $30 billion in asbestos trust funds, awaiting those who’ve been diagnosed with an asbestos illness. Fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on experienced mesothelioma attorneys in your area, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more. 

What Is Multimodal Therapy?

Multimodal therapy is a combination of two or more different therapies utilized to increase the effectiveness of malignant mesothelioma treatment.

Oncologists usually choose a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy for treating mesothelioma. More recently, gene therapy, immunotherapy, and other forms of nontraditional are also being used.

As of today, professionals cannot determine which combinations of treatments are the most effective. In most cases, it will depend upon the patient’s history and the stage of the disease.

However, studies have suggested trimodal therapy is particularly helpful for treating mesothelioma. Trimodal therapy involves combining radiation therapy and chemotherapy along with surgery. The National Comprehensive Cancer Center (NCI) and the Brigham and Women’s Hospital utilize this method frequently.

Steps Before Multimodal Therapy

When physicians begin to implement a multimodal therapy treatment plan, there are three major steps:

Induction Therapy

After determining the best combination of treatments to use, the first step, called induction therapy, is administered to the patient before the primary treatment. Induction therapy typically consists of radiation or chemotherapy.

Treatment

The second step is the primary treatment, in which physicians attempt to remove the main tumors and cancerous cells. The primary treatment is usually surgery but can also be chemotherapy for those patients who don’t qualify for surgery.

Follow-Up

The third step involves follow-up treatment. After the primary treatment concludes, physicians will implement an individualized plan to help patients experience the least amount of pain and side effects.  

Follow-up treatment also helps reduce the painful symptoms of mesothelioma.

Side Effects of Multimodal Therapy

As with most surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments, patients may experience a series of side effects. However, each patient is unique, and while some may experience many side effects, others may only experience a few.

The most common side effects are:

• Hair Loss
• Lethargy and Fatigue
• Bruising
• Weight Loss
• Easily Prone to Infections
• Vomiting and Nausea

The Future of Treatments

Most physicians still rely on combinations of radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery. As science progresses, more options are becoming available. For example, cryotherapy is becoming more accepted as an alternative treatment combination.

Cryotherapy consists of killing cancerous cells by freezing them via a needle. This type of treatment typically eliminates radiation therapy so that patients aren’t exposed to the harmful side effects of radiation. Researchers are also working on photosensitive drugs, targeted therapies, and gene therapy.

If you have a mesothelioma diagnosis, assemble a team of specialists as soon as possible. Talk to your medical team about the best treatment options for you.

Getting Help

Remember to fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on experienced asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area. For questions and assistance, feel free to contact us at 800-793-4540.