Mesothelioma Support Treatment Options

Question 1

What is the standard first-line chemotherapy regimen for mesothelioma in the US?

Accepted Answer

Cisplatin and pemetrexed

Answer

The combination of cisplatin and pemetrexed (Alimta) is the FDA-approved first-line chemotherapy for unresectable pleural mesothelioma.

Question 2

What surgical procedure involves removing the affected lung and surrounding tissue in pleural mesothelioma?

Accepted Answer

Extrapleural pneumonectomy

Answer

Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) removes the entire lung, pleura, diaphragm, and pericardium on the affected side.

Question 3

What does 'pleurectomy/decortication' (P/D) surgery accomplish?

Accepted Answer

Removes the pleura while preserving the lung

Answer

P/D removes the pleural lining and visible tumors while sparing the lung, offering a less radical option than EPP.

Question 4

Which immunotherapy drug combination was FDA-approved for mesothelioma in 2020?

Accepted Answer

Nivolumab + ipilimumab

Answer

Nivolumab (Opdivo) plus ipilimumab (Yervoy) received FDA approval in 2020 as a first-line treatment for unresectable mesothelioma.

Question 5

What is the purpose of palliative treatment in mesothelioma?

Accepted Answer

To relieve symptoms and improve quality of life

Answer

Palliative treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, managing pain, and improving quality of life rather than curing the disease.

Mesothelioma Support Practice Test