Chemotherapy (definition of)

Chemotherapy is a primary treatment for most forms of cancer, including malignant mesothelioma. It consists of special drugs which are classified as cytotoxic. Essentially, they kill living cells. These drugs are applied in controlled and targeted dosages, and may be administered intravenously or orally. Because they are distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream, chemotherapy drugs are useful in combating malignancies that have metastasized past their point of origin.

In the case of malignant mesothelioma, patients are given a "cocktail" consisting of two anti-cancer drugs, Alimta and Cisplatin. These drugs work together in order to destroy cancer cells while inhibiting metastasis (spread of the cancer). Other drugs prescribed by doctors to treat various types of cancers may include Gemcitabine and Navelbine.

Unfortunately, what kills cancer cells will kill healthy cells as well. Side effects of chemotherapy can include fatigue, anemia, hair loss, nausea, and loss of sexual function. For patients who cannot tolerate chemotherapy, drugs are available to help manage these side effects.

Since most mesothelioma cases (like peritoneal mesothelioma and pericardial mesothelioma) are not diagnosed until the disease has reached an advanced stage. Chemotherapy is at best a palliative therapy in most cases. It can provide relief from the chronic pain caused by the tumor's growth however, and make the patients last weeks easier. View our mesothelioma treatment guide to learn about additional options and alternative treatments.