The answer to the question of whether mesothelioma can be cured if caught early is not a simple yes or no. If mesothelioma is detected in its earliest stages, it is possible to treat it with surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or other treatments. However, the overall prognosis for mesothelioma is poor, and the cancer is very difficult to completely cure.
When mesothelioma is caught in its earliest stages – called Stage 1 – it is possible to remove all of the cancerous cells with surgery. This may involve removing the lining of the affected organ, such as the lungs, chest, abdomen, or heart. This is known as a pleurectomy/decortication, or P/D. If the cancer has not spread beyond the original tumor, the prognosis is much better than if the cancer has metastasized, or spread to other parts of the body.
However, even if mesothelioma is caught early and treated with surgery, it is still possible for the cancer to come back. For this reason, it is important to follow up with radiation and/or chemotherapy to help reduce the risk of recurrence. Additionally, some clinical trials are testing new treatments such as immunotherapy or targeted therapy to see if they can provide better outcomes than traditional treatments.
In conclusion, while mesothelioma can be cured if caught early, the prognosis is still poor and the cancer is difficult to completely cure. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy all have their place in the treatment of mesothelioma, but it is important to also consider clinical trials and other treatments as well.