Two new studies, published in Canada and France, have provided positive news for those suffering with peritoneal mesothelioma.
It is believed that hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) or cytoreductive surgery (CRS) may be particularly beneficial for those considering their treatment options.
The first study looked at the ability of the treatments in providing extended survival rates, with the second study considering the long-term consequences on patients’ quality of life arising out of any complications from the treatments.
The first study, conducted in Lyon, has followed the responses to the treatments on particular patients suffering with peritoneal mesothelioma, from as long back as 1989. They noted that out of a total of approximately 84 patients who were suffering with this form of mesothelioma, the average survival period was 42 months.
This survival rate increased the longer that these treatments where used by the treating clinicians. The study found that for every five years following the introduction of these treatment methods, the overall survival improved in individual mesothelioma patients. The team noticed that as a greater level of experience was gained by those providing the treatments, the survival rate increased. As a result, 14% of patients who were diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, within the study, were able to survive for a period in excess of 10 years.
The Canadian study on the other hand was conducted to assess whether complications that often arise as a result of HIPEC and CRS have a lasting impact on patients’ quality of life. This treatment, often offered to those suffering with peritoneal surface malignancies, which include peritoneal mesothelioma, can lead to complications such as pleural effusions, abscesses and bleeding. Although these complications are serious, in the majority of instances they do not lead to mortality, directly as a result.
The study noted that following these complications, after a period of six months, those who suffered the complications recovered without any lasting impact on their quality of life, compared to those who have not experienced any complications following the treatments.
Clearly this is positive advancement into assisting any sufferers of peritoneal mesothelioma, both in respect to improving their survival chances and overall quality of life.
If you require assistance in pursuing a mesothelioma claim, please contact us today on our freephone number 0800 038 6767. Alternatively, head over to the ‘Contact Us’ page, complete the form and we will be in touch.