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Mesothelioma is incurable. All patients—even if there was an initial positive response to treatment—will have disease progression and die. Today, people are living longer with their disease due to advances in oncological treatment and better access to medication.

Mesothelioma was once considered a disease confined to one hemithorax. As people live longer, spread to other organs through the diaphragm and via blood and the lymphatic system are reported and treated.

Second line treatment will depend on the level of disease, overall health of the patient and their wishes. It may include:

  • Retreatment of initial therapy
  • Changing therapy/drugs and combinations (chemotherapy or immunotherapy)
  • Radiation therapy to relieve pain and reduce the size of the tumour regrowth
  • Further surgery
  • Participating in a clinical trial.

Some people may not be suitable for second line treatment or may decline further treatment and instead focus on managing their symptoms and maximising quality of life.