Current concepts in malignant pleural mesothelioma.
June 19, 2008 11:08 pm mesotheliomaNew York University Medical Center, Department of Surgery, 550 First Avenue, NBV-15N1, New York, NY 10016, USA. kaufma01@med.nyu.edu
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare but lethal cancer associated with asbestos exposure. Worldwide, the incidence of MPM is expected to increase over the next 20 years. The molecular and genetic profiling of MPM tumors and patients, and improved understanding of the pathogenesis of MPM may lead to novel diagnostic, preventative and therapeutic strategies. Treatment options for MPM remain limited and no consensus exists at this time. Multimodality therapy that combines surgery, chemotherapy and radiation offers the best chance for long-term survival in select patients.
