Doctors will typically refer suspected mesothelioma patients to a cancer specialist, known as an oncologist. The oncologist will diagnosis the type and stage of mesothelioma and determine the best therapy. Please see "Oncologist" for more information on this tpye of doctor.

If radiation is indicated, the oncologist will refer patients to a radiation oncologist. While some radiologists read x-rays to diagnose broken limbs and other injuries, mesothelioma patients see a therapeutic radiologist or a radiation oncologist. These are specialists in delivering radiation (or high doses of x-rays) to patients to kill the tumor cells.

Patients undergoing surgery to remove a tumor, which can be a very aggressive surgery, may have to see a pulmonary therapist as part of follow-up treatment. Pulmonary therapists work with a wide variety of patients, not just cancer patients. Their job is to help recover lost lung function. Patients may also have to see a pulmonologist (neumologist), which is a specialist of the lungs, or may have to see a thoracic surgeon, who specializes in surgeries of the thoracic area.

Mesothelioma is an extremely aggressive cancer with a low success rate for treatment. Patients that are diagnosed with mesothelioma may suffer from a variety of conflicting emotions regarding treatment and prognosis. It is not unusual for a doctor to recommend a visit to a psychologist. It is important to maintain mental health during the treatment process. Patients that feel more positive about their treatment are more likely to respond positively to the treatment.

Choosing a Mesothelioma Doctor

A diagnosis of mesothelioma can be devastating for both the patient and the family. Because of the complex nature of the cancer, the treatment process can seem overwhelming. While it is important to allow the doctors to do their jobs, there are a variety of ways for patients to feel more in control of the treatment process:

Patients should find a doctor that makes them comfortable.
Understand what is going on at all times and do not be afraid to ask questions.
Speak up if a particular course of action or event does not seem appropriate.

Doctor Match Program

One of the most important factors in improving a mesothelioma patient's life expectancy is their selection of doctor and treatment facility. Asbestos.com's Doctor Match Program is now helping patients get matched with top mesothelioma specialists around the country. If you wish to take advantage of this free service please call us at (800) 549-0544 or click here visit our doctor match page.

Sources:

http://theoncologist.alphamedpress.org/cgi/content/full/12/7/850?maxtoshow=

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