Understanding Pleural Mesothelioma Booklet – The booklet has been prepared to help you understand how pleural mesothelioma is diagnosed and treated. We also include information about support services.
As the experience for every person with pleural mesothelioma is different, you need to discuss your treatment options with your doctor. However, we hope the information in this booklet will answer some of your questions and help you think about other questions to ask your treatment team.
This booklet does not need to be read from cover to cover – just read the parts that are useful to you. Some medical terms that may be unfamiliar are explained in the glossary. You may also like to pass this booklet to your family and friends for their information.
How this booklet was developed – Understanding Pleural Mesothelioma Booklet
This information was developed with help from a range of health professionals and people affected by pleural mesothelioma. It is based on an extensive review1 of the medical literature and clinical practice guidelines developed with the support of the Asbestos Diseases Research Institute (ADRI) and approved by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). Source: Understanding Pleural Mesothelioma A guide for people with cancer, their families and friends First published June 2015. © Cancer Council Australia 2015. ISBN 978 1 925136 54 8
What are the different types ?
How common is pleural mesothelioma ?
What causes pleural mesothelioma?
Diagnosis
General tests
CT scan
Biopsy
Other ways to diagnose mesothelioma
Further tests
Staging
Prognosis
Which health professionals will I see ?
Making treatment decisions
Talking with doctors
A second opinion
Taking part in a clinical trial
Treatment for symptoms
Breathlessness
Difficulty sleeping
Fatigue
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Constipation
Pain
Palliative treatment
Active treatment
Chemotherapy
Radiotherapy
Trimodality therapy
Living with pleural mesothelioma
Dealing with feelings of sadness
Ongoing management
What if pleural mesothelioma becomes active again?
Making a claim
Common law claim
Statutory benefits
Looking after yourself
Relationships with others
Sexuality, intimacy and fertility
Seeking support
Practical and financial help
Talk to someone who’s been there
Caring for someone with pleural mesothelioma
Question checklist
Useful websites
Glossary
Understanding Pleural Mesothelioma Booklet