Mesothelioma is a cancerous disease that primarily affects the cells that line the lungs and peritoneum. Mesothelioma is often attributed to exposure to asbestos fibers through work sites or products containing asbestos. The delayed onset of symptoms, or latency period, can be as long as 20 years after exposure.
Pleural effusion is a common and debilitating side effect of mesothelioma, which can have a major impact on a patient’s quality of life. Fluid is normally found between the chest cavity and the thin membranes that surround the lungs. Pleural effusion occurs when the fluid buildup becomes excessive and can result in a person’s inability to breathe freely, cause chest pain and feel a general sense of fatigue.
Pleurodesis is a hospital-based treatment that some patients elect to use for pleural effusion. The process involves medical treatment that causes the lining of the lungs to stick together, thereby eliminating the space where fluid buildup may occur. While this process has been shown to repair the problem and relieve symptoms, it is an invasive and costly procedure.
A new study from the Netherlands has shown the cost-reducing effectiveness of indwelling pleural catheters (IPCs). The study found that the procedure for placing the catheters to be less expensive than pleurodesis treatment and its resulting hospitalization. One of the benefits of IPCs is that their placement is often done during an outpatient procedure and can be maintained with at home care.
During an outpatient procedure, the doctor will place this small catheter between the linings of the lungs in the chest wall cavity. The drainage tube is often well-tolerated and can be easily drained by the patient at home as often or as little as is needed. The IPC is intended to remain permanently but can be removed if necessary during an outpatient visit.
While mesothelioma can be a painful illness to cope with, the hope of this and other research studies is to help reduce to the suffering of painful side effects.
For more information on other medical advancements please be sure to see other articles currently listed on Cooney and Conway’s blog to learn more.