Mesothelioma Palliative Care: When to Consider It

Published By:
Jessie Paluch
Jessie Paluch

Attorney Jessie Paluch, founder of TruLaw, has over 25 years of experience as a personal injury and mass tort attorney, and previously worked as an international tax attorney at Deloitte. Jessie collaborates with attorneys nationwide — enabling her to share reliable, up-to-date legal information with our readers.

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy and clarity by the team of writers and legal experts at TruLaw and is as accurate as possible. This content should not be taken as legal advice from an attorney. If you would like to learn more about our owner and experienced injury lawyer, Jessie Paluch, you can do so here.

TruLaw does everything possible to make sure the information in this article is up to date and accurate. If you need specific legal advice about your case, contact us by using the chat on the bottom of this page. This article should not be taken as advice from an attorney.

Key takeaways:

  • Palliative treatment for mesothelioma aims to improve patient comfort and manage symptoms throughout the cancer journey.
  • A multidisciplinary palliative care team for mesothelioma typically includes oncologists, pulmonologists, pain management specialists, psychologists, social workers, and dietitians.
  • TruLaw is currently accepting clients for mesothelioma lawsuits on a contingency fee basis.

Palliative Treatment Options: Mesothelioma Overview

Mesothelioma palliative care represents a collaborative approach to improving the quality of life for patients.

This specialized form of mesothelioma care focuses on relieving the stress and symptoms of their current health condition.

On this page, we’ll provide an overview of mesothelioma palliative treatment options, advanced mesothelioma pain management strategies, mesothelioma palliative care teams for patients, and much more.

Mesothelioma Palliative Care When to Consider It

How Does Palliative Treatment Benefit Mesothelioma Patients?

A May 2023 study in the British Journal of Community Nursing strongly supports the effectiveness of early engagement with palliative services to improve outcomes, particularly for pleural mesothelioma patients.

Palliative treatment can provide the following benefits to individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma:

  • Improved Quality of Life: Studies show up to 60% cost savings and better symptom management with early palliative intervention
  • Extended Survival: Research indicates survival benefits of up to 140 days with early palliative care
  • Better Symptom Control: Targeted management of symptoms like appetite loss and pain
  • Coordinated Care: Integration of multiple healthcare providers for treatments

The effectiveness of palliative care relies heavily on a dedicated care coordinator to manage the various aspects of each treatment option.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be eligible to seek compensation for medical expenses, including mesothelioma palliative care treatments.

Contact TruLaw using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation and determine whether you qualify to file a mesothelioma lawsuit.

Table of Contents

Palliative Care Teams for Mesothelioma Patients

Palliative care enhances comfort by managing physical and emotional symptoms throughout malignant mesothelioma treatment.

Multidisciplinary Approach to Palliative Treatment

An interdisciplinary approach to palliative treatment for mesothelioma brings together palliative care specialists who address the needs of these patients.

This team-based strategy ensures that physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms are managed thoroughly.

The following professionals typically make up a mesothelioma palliative care team:

  • Oncologists: Oversee cancer treatment and guide pain management to address the effects of ongoing therapies.
  • Pulmonologists: Manages respiratory symptoms commonly experienced by mesothelioma patients.
  • Pain Management Specialists: Develop strategies and prescribe medications to reduce chronic pain.
  • Psychologists and Social Workers: Provide support for emotional and mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression.
  • Dietitians: Offers nutritional guidance to help patients maintain their strength and health during treatment.

This team structure enables a tailored care plan considering each patient’s symptoms, preferences, and goals.

Differences Between Palliative Therapy and Hospice Care

Palliative therapy and hospice care differ significantly in their goals and timing.

Palliative therapy is available at any point after a mesothelioma diagnosis, working alongside treatments to manage symptoms and improve comfort.

In contrast, hospice care is reserved for patients who have decided to discontinue curative treatments to focus solely on comfort during the final stages of life.

Here are the main differences between palliative therapy and hospice care:

  • Timing: Palliative therapy may start at diagnosis and proceed alongside treatments, while hospice care begins when curative treatments cease.
  • Goal: Palliative therapy supports symptom relief alongside treatment, while hospice prioritizes end-of-life comfort exclusively.
  • Eligibility: Palliative therapy is accessible at any stage; hospice is generally for patients with a life expectancy of six months or less.
  • Treatment Continuation: Patients receiving palliative therapy may continue curative treatments, whereas hospice care does not involve active cancer treatments.
  • Focus: Palliative therapy integrates symptom relief with ongoing care; hospice centers entirely on improving the patient’s quality of life in the final months.

Recognizing these differences enables patients and families to make well-informed decisions based on their personal goals and care preferences.

Each option supports patient comfort but provides distinct types of care based on the patient’s current treatment journey and individual needs.

Palliative Interventions for Mesothelioma

Palliative interventions for mesothelioma are designed to reduce symptoms, improve comfort, and enhance the quality of life for patients facing this challenging disease.

These interventions play a significant role in symptom management, often relieving pain, breathing difficulties, and other side effects.

A range of procedures and treatments are available, allowing patients and their healthcare teams to select the most suitable options based on individual symptoms and preferences.

Surgical Palliative Procedures

Surgical procedures in palliative care for mesothelioma aim to alleviate symptoms by addressing specific areas affected by the disease.

These surgeries are generally less invasive than curative procedures, focusing instead on improving comfort and relieving pressure on organs.

Standard surgical palliative procedures for mesothelioma include:

  • Pleurodesis: A procedure that removes fluid buildup in the pleural space caused by pleural mesothelioma, relieving pressure on the lungs and reducing shortness of breath.
  • Thoracentesis: A minimally invasive procedure to drain fluid from the chest cavity, often providing immediate relief from breathing difficulties.
  • Pleurectomy: This surgery removes part of the pleura to reduce symptoms related to tumor growth, alleviating pain and breathing issues.
  • Pericardial Window: A surgical procedure drains fluid around the heart caused by pericardial mesothelioma, minimizing pressure and discomfort.
  • Paracentesis: Used to drain fluid buildup in the abdomen caused by peritoneal mesothelioma, easing pressure and discomfort.

These surgical interventions offer targeted symptom relief, chosen based on the patient’s current symptoms and the areas affected by mesothelioma.

Palliative Chemotherapy Protocols

Palliative chemotherapy for mesothelioma is customized to reduce symptoms and slow disease progression for cancer patients.

It uses lower drug doses than curative treatments to prioritize patient comfort and manage symptoms with fewer side effects.

Key objectives of palliative chemotherapy include:

  • Tumor Shrinkage: Reducing tumor size to alleviate pain or discomfort in affected areas.
  • Symptom Management: Alleviating symptoms like pain, fatigue, and appetite loss through controlled tumor size.
  • Customized Dosing: Utilizing lower doses to minimize adverse effects.
  • Shorter Treatment Cycles: Reducing frequency and intensity of treatments to improve tolerance.
  • Combined Approaches: Sometimes combined with other palliative treatments, such as radiation, for enhanced symptom control.

Palliative chemotherapy protocols are adjusted based on individual needs, focusing on reducing side effects and enhancing quality of life.

Immunotherapy in Palliative Care

Immunotherapy in palliative care offers an alternative approach using the patient’s immune system to manage symptoms of malignant pleural mesothelioma.

Although not curative, immunotherapy can help slow disease progression and relieve symptoms.

Immunotherapy’s palliative role includes:

  • Disease Stabilization: Slowing disease spread to alleviate symptoms related to tumor progression.
  • Reduced Side Effects: Offering a treatment option with generally fewer severe side effects compared to chemotherapy.
  • Improved Resilience: Boosting immune response, allowing some patients to manage symptoms with fewer interventions.
  • Prolonged Disease Management: Offering extended relief for patients who respond positively to immunotherapy.
  • Combination with Other Treatments: Sometimes paired with radiation or chemotherapy to improve overall symptom control.

The choice to include immunotherapy in a palliative plan depends on patient health and response, with the goal of manageable symptom control.

Radiation Therapy for Symptom Relief

Radiation therapy in mesothelioma palliative care targets specific areas where tumors cause pain or other symptoms, helping to shrink tumors and reduce pressure on nerves or organs, similar to treatments used for lung cancer.

Radiation therapy’s benefits in palliative care include:

  • Pain Reduction: Targeting specific tumors causing pain, particularly in the chest and back.
  • Breathing Improvement: Shrinking tumors pressing on the lungs to ease breathing.
  • Lowered Tumor Pressure: Reducing pressure on nearby organs, minimizing discomfort.
  • Short Treatment Duration: Designed with shorter cycles to limit fatigue and improve comfort.
  • Precision: Focused on specific symptom areas to limit broader treatment effects.

Radiation therapy is selected based on symptoms and areas impacted by mesothelioma, aiming for effective symptom relief with a manageable treatment schedule.

Advanced Mesothelioma Pain Management Strategies

Advanced mesothelioma pain management strategies are essential for mesothelioma patients, as pain can be a persistent and debilitating symptom.

Effective pain management involves a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches tailored to each patient’s needs.

Physicians and palliative care teams work closely to provide a personalized plan, ensuring comprehensive relief from pain while minimizing side effects.

Pharmacological Approaches to Pain Control

Pharmacological approaches are the foundation of pain management for mesothelioma patients, providing relief through various medications that target different types and intensities of pain.

These medications are carefully selected and adjusted to balance pain control with patient comfort, considering factors like tolerance and potential side effects.

The primary pharmacological options for mesothelioma pain include:

  • Opioids: Used for moderate to severe pain, opioids provide fast-acting relief for acute and chronic pain associated with mesothelioma.
  • Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Effective for reducing inflammation and mild pain, often combined with other medications for enhanced relief.
  • Steroids: Prescribed to reduce inflammation around tumors, relieving pain and pressure on surrounding tissues.
  • Anticonvulsants and Antidepressants: Medications that help manage nerve pain and are often used when traditional pain medications are insufficient.
  • Topical Analgesics: Creams or patches applied to the skin to relieve localized pain without systemic side effects.

This pharmacological approach provides a structured pain management plan, offering a range of medications that can be adapted to meet evolving patient needs.

Careful monitoring optimizes comfort and reduces adverse effects.

Non-Pharmacological Pain Management Techniques

These techniques are particularly beneficial for patients who experience side effects from medication or who seek additional pain relief options.

Non-pharmacological methods focus on managing the mental and emotional aspects of pain as well as physical discomfort.

Common non-pharmacological pain management techniques include:

  • Physical Therapy: Helps maintain strength and mobility, reducing pain associated with stiffness or lack of movement.
  • Acupuncture: Can relieve pain and promote relaxation by applying fine needles to specific points on the body.
  • Massage Therapy: Eases muscle tension, reduces stress, and provides comfort and relaxation.
  • Guided Imagery and Relaxation Techniques: These mind-body approaches help patients manage pain by promoting mental relaxation and reducing stress-related discomfort.
  • Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying hot or cold compresses to affected areas can relieve localized pain and reduce inflammation.

These non-pharmacological strategies are often used alongside medications, enhancing the overall effectiveness of pain management plans.

TruLaw: Accepting Clients for Mesothelioma Lawsuits

Mesothelioma lawsuits are being filed by individuals across the country who were diagnosed with this aggressive cancer after being exposed to asbestos.

TruLaw is currently accepting clients for mesothelioma claims.

A few reasons to choose TruLaw for your mesothelioma case include:

  • If We Don’t Win, You Don’t Pay: The asbestos lawyers at TruLaw and our partner firms operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you win.
  • Expertise: We have years of experience handling toxic tort cases similar to mesothelioma lawsuits, which helps us anticipate what we can expect to see in your case and the regulations we will be required to meet.
  • Successful Track Record: TruLaw and our partner law firms have helped our clients recover billions of dollars in compensation through verdicts and negotiated settlements.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma after asbestos exposure, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit and seek compensation.

Contact TruLaw using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation that can determine if you qualify for a mesothelioma claim today.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the key benefits of palliative treatment for mesothelioma patients?

    Palliative treatment can improve quality of life, extended survival, better symptom control, and coordinated care for mesothelioma patients.

    Studies show up to 60% cost savings and better symptom management with early palliative intervention.

  • Who is typically involved in a mesothelioma palliative care team?

    A mesothelioma palliative care team typically includes oncologists, pulmonologists, pain management specialists, psychologists, social workers, and dietitians.

    This multidisciplinary approach ensures that physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms are managed thoroughly.

  • How do palliative therapy and hospice care differ for mesothelioma patients?

    Palliative therapy is available at any point after a mesothelioma diagnosis.

    It works alongside treatments to manage symptoms, while hospice care is reserved for patients who have decided to discontinue curative treatments and focus solely on comfort during the final stages of life.

    Recognizing these differences enables patients and families to make well-informed decisions based on their personal goals and care preferences.

  • What are some common surgical palliative procedures for mesothelioma?

    Common surgical palliative procedures for mesothelioma include pleurodesis, thoracentesis, pleurectomy, pericardial window, and paracentesis.

    These procedures aim to alleviate symptoms by addressing specific areas affected by the disease, such as removing fluid buildup or reducing pressure on organs.

  • What pharmacological approaches are used for pain control in mesothelioma patients?

    The primary pharmacological options for mesothelioma pain include opioids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), steroids, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and topical analgesics.

    These medications are carefully selected and adjusted to balance pain control with patient comfort, considering factors like tolerance and potential side effects.

  • How can TruLaw assist individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma?

    TruLaw is currently accepting clients for mesothelioma lawsuits and operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win.

    With years of experience handling toxic tort cases, TruLaw and their partner law firms can help individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma seek the compensation they deserve.

Published By:
Jessie Paluch
Jessie Paluch

Experienced Attorney & Legal SaaS CEO

With over 25 years of legal experience, Jessie is an Illinois lawyer, a CPA, and a mother of three.  She spent the first decade of her career working as an international tax attorney at Deloitte.

In 2009, Jessie co-founded her own law firm with her husband – which has scaled to over 30 employees since its conception.

In 2016, Jessie founded TruLaw, which allows her to collaborate with attorneys and legal experts across the United States on a daily basis. This hypervaluable network of experts is what enables her to share reliable legal information with her readers!

AFFF Lawsuit

AFFF Lawsuit claims are being filed against manufacturers of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), commonly used in firefighting.

Claims allege that companies such as 3M, DuPont, and Tyco Fire Products failed to adequately warn users about the potential dangers of AFFF exposure — including increased risks of various cancers and diseases.

Suboxone Lawsuit

Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit claims are being filed against Indivior, the manufacturer of Suboxone, a medication used to treat opioid addiction.

Claims allege that Indivior failed to adequately warn users about the potential dangers of severe tooth decay and dental injuries associated with Suboxone’s sublingual film version.

Social Media Lawsuits

Social Media Harm Lawsuits are being filed against social media companies for allegedly causing mental health issues in children and teens.

Claims allege that companies like Meta, Google, ByteDance, and Snap designed addictive platforms that led to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues without adequately warning users or parents.

Vaginal Mesh Lawsuits

Transvaginal Mesh Lawsuits are being filed against manufacturers of transvaginal mesh products used to treat pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Claims allege that companies like Ethicon, C.R. Bard, and Boston Scientific failed to adequately warn about potential dangers — including erosion, pain, and infection.

Bair Hugger Lawsuit

Bair Hugger Warming Blanket Lawsuits involve claims against 3M — alleging their surgical warming blankets caused severe infections and complications (particularly in hip and knee replacement surgeries).

Plaintiffs claim 3M failed to warn about potential risks — despite knowing about increased risk of deep joint infections since 2011.

Baby Formula NEC Lawsuit

Baby Formula NEC Lawsuit claims are being filed against manufacturers of cow’s milk-based baby formula products.

Claims allege that companies like Abbott Laboratories (Similac) and Mead Johnson & Company (Enfamil) failed to warn about the increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants.

Do You
Have A Case?

Here, at TruLaw, we’re committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve.

Alongside our partner law firms, we have successfully collected over $3 Billion in verdicts and settlements on behalf of injured individuals.

Would you like our help?

Helpful Sites & Resources