Mesothelioma Flashcards
1
Q
What is mesothelioma?
A
A cancer off the mesothelial layer of the pleural cavity, strongly associated with asbestos exposure
2
Q
What are the features of mesothelioma?
A
Dyspnoea Weight loss Chest wall pain Clubbing Painless pleural effusion 20% asbestosis History of asbestos exposure in 85-90%
3
Q
Where does mesothelioma most commonly metastasise?
A
Contralateral lung and peritoneum
Right lung affected more than the left
4
Q
What is the investigation of mesothelioma?
A
Chest x-ray - pleural effusion or thickening
PLEURAL CT
Local anaesthetic thoracoscopy
Pleural biopsy
5
Q
What is the management of mesothelioma?
A
Symptomatic
Industrial compensation
Chemotherapy, surgery if operable
Prognosis poor, median survival 12 months
