Kastelik JA and El-Mahdawi N
Malignant mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer affecting the pleura and the serous membranes. Asbestos exposure is the most important factor contributing to the development of malignant mesothelioma. Malignant pleural mesothelioma in general has poor prognosis with studies suggesting that without treatment the median survival is between 4 to 12 months. Unfortunately, there are not many therapeutic interventions that can be offered to patients with malignant mesothelioma. In recent years, another approach that centers on the cancer immune response has shown promising results in managing certain types of tumors including malignant mesothelioma. In addition, to Pembrolizumab there are other immunotherapy agents currently under investigation for the potential future treatment options for patients with malignant mesothelioma. The new approaches using immunotherapy to manage patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma are encouraging. However, more evidence is still required before immunotherapy becomes acceptable form of treatment for malignant pleural mesothelioma.
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