Stage 3 Mesothelioma Prognosis
A prognosis of stage 3 mesothelioma means that the cancer is now in its advanced stage of development. The asbestos cancer has now spread from the mesothelium, which is the point of origin, to other nearby tissues or organs. The asbestos cancer has spread to the lymph node group closest to the primary tumor location. When the lymph nodes past the chest area are affected, this causes the disease to spread at a faster pace.
Signs and symptoms of stage 3 mesothelioma include:
- Difficulty in breathing
- Low vitality
- Fatigue
- Depression
The Butchart System: Mesothelioma Staging System
The spread of the mesothelioma in the body is assessed by one of the oldest cancer staging system – the Butchart System. The Butchart System is often used for staging pleural mesothelioma. It places an individual case of mesothelioma cancer in categories based on the size of the primary tumor and whether lymph nodes are affected.
Diagnosis of Stage 3 Mesothelioma
A stage 3 mesothelioma prognosis is very poor. At this stage, the disease is considered too far advanced for any type of curative surgery. The survival rate at this point is extremely low. Because the cancer has now spread to other locations beyond the primary location makes it extremely difficult for any type of curative surgery. And even if the main tumor is removed, the spread of the cancer cannot be contained.
Treating Stage 3 Mesothelioma
Treatments during a stage 3 mesothelioma prognosis are palliative in nature. Treatments at this stage are designed to keep the patient as comfortable as possible be relieving symptoms rather than to improve the prognosis of patients. However, if the patient is in excellent health and young, large tumors can be removed to ease discomfort in nearby organs or fluid buildup by mesothelioma paracentesis or thoracentesis.Radiation therapy and chemotherapy may also be used to relief any discomforts. Patients may also choose to participate in clinical trials which are used to test new drugs and therapies.
Four Stages of Mesothelioma
There are four stages of mesothelioma: Stage I, Stage II, Stage III and Stage IV. Staging is the process used to tell how far the mesothelioma has spread. Imaging studies such as x-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans are often used during the staging process. The type of treatment given and the prognosis for the patient will be determined by the stage of their cancer. The staging system often used includes the Butchart System, TNM, and Brigham Staging System.
Legal Help for Mesothelioma Victims Due to Asbestos Exposure
If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos, and is suffering from mesothelioma or any asbestos-related illnesses, you should contact an experienced mesothelioma lawyer in your area as soon as possible. Mesothelioma lawyers will almost certainly be able to help you obtain the monetary compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering.
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