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Pleural Mesothelioma

Asbestos-related malignancy of the pleural lining with growing immunotherapy options

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Onkoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Pleural Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma of the pleura arises decades after inhalational exposure to asbestos and rarely after radiation. It presents with progressive shortness of breath, chest pain, weight loss, and recurrent pleural effusion that does not resolve with drainage alone.

Diagnosis requires histologic confirmation through thoracoscopic biopsy with epithelioid, sarcomatoid, or biphasic subtype identification. Staging combines computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography to guide therapy decisions.

Multimodality treatment combines pleurectomy or extended pleurectomy decortication with chemotherapy, while extrapleural pneumonectomy is rarely used today. Dual immune checkpoint inhibition with nivolumab and ipilimumab improves overall survival in unresectable disease, especially nonepithelioid histology.

Symptoms

Progressive dyspnea and chest discomfort
Recurrent pleural effusion despite drainage
Pleural thickening or nodularity on imaging
Unintentional weight loss and fatigue
History of occupational asbestos exposure

Risk Factors

Cumulative asbestos exposure with long latency
Occupational risk in shipbuilding, mining, and construction
Erionite mineral exposure in endemic regions
Prior chest radiation therapy
BAP1 germline tumor predisposition syndrome

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When dyspnea and pleural effusion recur
  • When asbestos exposure history is significant
  • When weight loss and chest pain coexist
  • When pleural thickening is found incidentally
  • When tertiary referral is needed for evaluation

Treatment Methods

01
Thoracoscopic biopsy for tissue diagnosis
02
Pleurectomy decortication in selected patients
03
Platinum-pemetrexed and bevacizumab regimens
04
Nivolumab and ipilimumab for advanced disease
05
Definitive or palliative radiotherapy
06
Pleurodesis or indwelling catheter for effusion control
07
Multidisciplinary review at a high-volume center

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Onkoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.