However, a person with pleural disease needs to be followed and monitored by a physician. This testing is more meaningful if the patient can provide a full history of exposure to asbestos. Of course, if cancer or mesothelioma are diagnosed, medical specialists should be consulted immediately. The median survival time for a victim of mesothelioma is eight to 12 months, with some surviving for two years. Some forms of treatment include pleurectomy or pneumonectomy with radiation treatment.
Chemotherapy often is prescribed.
Experimental treatments are available at some institutions. It is important to get a diagnosis or seek treatment from a physician or hospital with expertise in detecting and treating asbestos disease. For a listing of some treaters and hospitals, click here. Please note that this is not an endorsement of any physician or hospital. All Rights Reserved.