Experts Optimistic About the Progression Of Mesothelioma Treatment
The International Mesothelioma Interest Group (IMIG) meets on a yearly basis to discuss cutting-edge news related to the deadly cancer known as malignant mesothelioma. Over the past few years, the IMIG has become increasingly confident and optimistic about current and upcoming mesothelioma treatment processes.
Key factors related to effective treatment of mesothelioma that the IMIG sites as important include early detection, reliable diagnosis, initiating proper staging procedures and effective post-treatment monitoring. Many recent advances have become accessible that assist these key aspects of treatment.
One such step is a procedure known as immunohistochemistry (IHC). This relatively new procedure greatly improves the accuracy of malignant mesothelioma diagnosis and has become a standardized step in the process. Imaging tactics have also improved. Researchers are particularly optimistic about CT scan imaging and its ability to deliver more accurate data about tumor size.
The IMIG is also excited about the prospects of screening biological markers. Recent studies have linked certain proteins – such as serum mesothelin-related protein (SMRP) – to an elevated risk for mesothelioma. Using biological markers to search for such proteins is expected to facilitate early detection and monitoring.
As new research findings continue to pour in, doctors and researchers continue to craft more effective ways to identify, treat and monitor malignant mesothelioma. These new tactics are leading the way towards improved survival rates and decreased chemotherapy side effects.
Source: http://www.nature.com/onc/journal/v23/n57/full/1208180a.html