Mesothelioma doctors are experts in the unique treatment of this rare cancer. These doctors include experts at top cancer centers such as oncologists, pulmonologists, radiologists and surgeons. Patients who see a mesothelioma doctor report better results.
Dr. Andrea Wolf: Why is getting a second opinion from a mesothelioma specialist important
Second opinions are important. But I always tell patients they should get a first opinion before they get a second opinion. And so if a local doctor is seeing the patient, refers them to some clinicians locally, I always encourage them to continue to proceed with that kind of while parallel processing and setting themselves up if they would like for additional opinions.
I want them to see and hear what the local surgeon or oncologist has to say. Often even if people are inexperienced with mesothelioma, if they're good clinicians, they will reach out to centers that are more experienced.
The risk or potential pitfall is if there is some negativity. And the reason for the importance of the second opinion, in particular at a place with experience in mesothelioma is that out in the community and where people do not see this disease as often, historically, there has been a lot of nihilism, and there may be a lack of awareness of therapies, advancements, and all of the options.
And that is why really having a second opinion is very important. Most important is not to take any negativity or any potential discussion of things like life expectancy at a hard and fast rule. If anyone starts speaking of number of months or years to live, that's where I think they're expressing some general lack of knowledge, and frankly kind of poor clinical skills.
Nobody's a prophet, and no one patient is exactly the same as another. And the factors that contribute to survival in mesothelioma are unique. And that's why getting a second opinion, especially at a center of excellence in this is really important for these patients.
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Dr. Andrea Wolf: Why is getting a second opinion from a mesothelioma specialist important
Second opinions are important. But I always tell patients they should get a first opinion before they get a second opinion. And so if a local doctor is seeing the patient, refers them to some clinicians locally, I always encourage them to continue to proceed with that kind of while parallel processing and setting themselves up if they would like for additional opinions.
I want them to see and hear what the local surgeon or oncologist has to say. Often even if people are inexperienced with mesothelioma, if they're good clinicians, they will reach out to centers that are more experienced.
The risk or potential pitfall is if there is some negativity. And the reason for the importance of the second opinion, in particular at a place with experience in mesothelioma is that out in the community and where people do not see this disease as often, historically, there has been a lot of nihilism, and there may be a lack of awareness of therapies, advancements, and all of the options.
And that is why really having a second opinion is very important. Most important is not to take any negativity or any potential discussion of things like life expectancy at a hard and fast rule. If anyone starts speaking of number of months or years to live, that's where I think they're expressing some general lack of knowledge, and frankly kind of poor clinical skills.
Nobody's a prophet, and no one patient is exactly the same as another. And the factors that contribute to survival in mesothelioma are unique. And that's why getting a second opinion, especially at a center of excellence in this is really important for these patients.
How We Rate & Rank Top Mesothelioma Doctors
The Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.com carefully vets specialists. We pick the best to lead future care standards.
Essential criteria:
Tailor treatment plans for each patient.
Participate in multidisciplinary treatment teams at top U.S. cancer centers.
Lead clinical trials and research, publishing findings in top journals.
Lead discussions at national and global conferences.
Our medical experts reach out to mesothelioma specialists to ensure they are updated on latest treatments and knowledge. They also grasp the unique challenges patients and caregivers face and provide the best support resources.
Top Mesothelioma Doctors & Specialists
Top doctors have spent years treating mesothelioma cancer. We use their experience to help you pick the best specialist. These experts offer treatments based on your diagnosis. Some of the top mesothelioma doctors in the country include:
Family doctors or general oncologists may never encounter asbestos-related cancers, which can add stress to an already difficult time as you look for expert answers and a treatment plan tailored to your needs. We want to ensure you have access to all the best resources and support you need to get through this challenging time.
The Mesothelioma Center can connect you with more than 500 specialists. All are board-certified, compassionate and have strong teams backing them. We’ve linked patients and families to top resources for more than a decade.
Find a Specialist Near You
Begin your search for a doctor in your area.
Don’t see your state? Find out how our Doctor Match program can help.
Choose a mesothelioma doctor based on experience, the hospital they’re affiliated with and availability. It’s also crucial for you to feel comfortable and supported working with your doctor and their mesothelioma team.
It’s never too early to find a mesothelioma doctor, oncologist or pulmonologist who is right for you. Even if you’re unsure about asbestos exposure or early symptoms, our Patient Advocates can help find a specialist near you. These doctors can confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and begin treatment planning.
Survivor Story
Tamron Little: Finding a Mesothelioma Specialist
Getting to a doctor that knew what mesothelioma was and knew how to treat it was my prayers answered. Being coming from an oncologist that didn’t know what it was, and we could kind of tell that he really didn’t know what to do. Going to Dr. Levine with somebody that said, OK, this is what it is and this is what we’re going to do, and you’re going to be OK.
I’ve seen patients that XYZ and this, that, and the third. And you’re healthy. You’re young. And you’re going to be OK, because this is what we’re going to do, versus an oncologist that said, well, I don’t know what this is, we’re just going to keep doing bloodwork and see what your platelet counts are pretty much. So God answered my family’s prayers and God answered my prayers for sending us to Dr. Levine.
What to Look for in a Mesothelioma Doctor
How do you determine what’s most important in a mesothelioma doctor? Everyone’s priorities are different. However, there are some key aspects worth considering when choosing a mesothelioma doctor.
Access to clinical trials: Leading mesothelioma doctors often combine research with standard care. They should be aware of new or experimental treatments for your condition. Clinical trials provide more options for effective therapies.
Availability: Picking a mesothelioma doctor also means finding one who can start treatment quickly. Your doctor should be available when you need them. So ask about virtual visits, phone calls and emergency support.
Experience and expertise: A specialist has spent years learning about this rare cancer. This gives them an advantage over general oncologists. The Mesothelioma Center only highlights renowned specialists who have excelled in their field.
Hospital affiliations: A top specialist should have access to the best resources. Ask your doctor whether they have privileges at the cancer center you prefer. Consider the staff, equipment and clinical trials available. You should also feel safe and welcome at each visit.
Insurance coverage: Experts in mesothelioma often take Medicare and most private insurances. Patient Advocates can confirm if your provider covers your chosen doctor and treatment center.
Support staff: Caregivers realize mesothelioma treatment needs a team. Choosing a doctor means you also get their team. This team should have a licensed dietitian, a physical therapist and other experts.
We understand insurance and good local care are vital. Our network of mesothelioma doctors is here for patients and caregivers. Choosing a trusted specialist and mesothelioma team brings comfort and peace of mind.
If you’ve been exposed to asbestos, inform your doctor. Talk to your doctor about regular screenings for mesothelioma. Early detection of mesothelioma or lung cancer can open up more treatment options.
“When I was looking for a mesothelioma doctor, I realized how much it mattered to have someone who genuinely cared. My doctor didn’t just treat the cancer, they listened, explained every step, and made me feel seen. In my experience, compassion, and clear communication made all the difference when my life was on the line.”
Michael Cole, Pleural Mesothelioma Survivor
Types of Mesothelioma Specialists
Your mesothelioma team includes oncologists, surgeons, pulmonologists and pathologists. Each one is an expert in their field. They work together to create the best treatment plans for patients.
Michael Cole, a survivor of pleural mesothelioma, underscores the need for trust in picking a doctor. He says, “We need all the positive support we can get, especially from our doctor,” he said. “Trust comes from good communication and a willingness to place our confidence in them to do their job.”
Mesothelioma radiation oncologists create a radiation therapy plan. They also decide how to deliver the radiation and its dosage.
Thoracic and General Surgeons
A thoracic surgeon operates on the chest. A skilled surgeon reduces tumor mass to improve mesothelioma symptoms or extend life expectancy. They specialize in the lungs, heart, esophagus and diaphragm.
Pulmonologist
A pulmonologist is an expert in lung disease. They play a key role in the diagnosis and treatment of pleural mesothelioma patients. They also prescribe breathing exercises to improve lung function and can work with your oncologist to provide expert advice on managing the disease and its symptoms.
Pathologist
A pathologist looks at biopsy samples under a microscope. They identify tumor cells to check for mesothelioma or other cancers. This process is key in diagnosing mesothelioma.
Palliative Care Specialist
A palliative care specialist helps cancer patients with symptoms, manages cancer pain, and manages treatment side effects, improving quality of life.
Exclusive Content
Missy Miller: Advice for Finding the Right Treatment & Doctor
As a patient, when you’re trying to find out what the best treatment is for you, make sure you actually seek a specialist in mesothelioma.
An oncologist that actually understands the disease, knows how to order different scans so that way they can see the progression of the disease, they can help you with the staging, they know the cell type. Cell type is extremely important with mesothelioma.
There’s not a one size fits all for this treatment, so based off of your cell type, that kinda dictates what kind of treatment you’ll have. So if you actually go to a specialist who specializes in mesothelioma, they have all this knowledge and they can help set up a treatment plan for you that will work best for your particular type of diagnosis.
Top Pleural Mesothelioma Doctors
The best pleural mesothelioma doctors in the U.S. stand out for their leadership, teamwork, experience and knowledge. Some are oncologists who use chemotherapy for chest tumors. Others are thoracic surgeons who remove tumors from the pleura. Pulmonologists have the expertise to help people with mesothelioma successfully manage their symptoms.
Top Pleural Mesothelioma Doctors in the US
Dr. Andrew Haas: Interventional pulmonologist at the Mesothelioma and Pleural Disease Program at Penn Medicine and the Abramson Cancer Center in Philadelphia.
Dr. Marcelo DaSilva: Chief of thoracic surgery and medical director at AdventHealth Cancer Institute in Orlando, Florida.
Dr. Jacques Fontaine: Thoracic surgeon and director of the Mesothelioma Research and Treatment Center at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida.
Dr. Daniel H. Sterman: Pulmonologist and director of the Multidisciplinary Pulmonary Oncology Program at the New York University Langone Medical Center in New York.
Dr. Anne Tsao: Medical oncologist, director of the Mesothelioma Program and Clinical Research Committee chair at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.
Dr. Jeffrey Velotta: Thoracic surgeon and researcher at Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center in California.
Dr. Andrea Wolf: Thoracic surgeon and director of the New York Mesothelioma Program at Mount Sinai in New York.
Top Peritoneal Mesothelioma Doctors
The nation’s top doctors for peritoneal mesothelioma specialize in abdominal cancers. Their teams are the most skilled and informed in this area.
Oncologists often use chemotherapy to treat tumors in the abdomen. Surgeons perform cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemo. They use these to remove tumors from the peritoneal lining.
Top Peritoneal Mesothelioma Doctors in the US
Dr. W. Charles Conway: Director of surgical oncology at the Ridley-Tree Cancer Center in Santa Barbara, California. He specializes in cytoreductive and robotic surgery.
Dr. Mecker Moller: A surgical oncologist and a surgery professor at the University of Chicago. She performed South Florida’s first HIPEC procedure.
Dr. Daniel M. Labow: Works at Nuvance Health Praxair Cancer Center in Danbury, Connecticut. He founded the HIPEC program at Mount Sinai Medical Center.
Dr. J.F. Pingpank, Jr.: A UPMC Hillman Cancer Center surgical oncologist. And an associate professor of surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.
Dr. Sophie Dessureault: A surgical oncologist at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa. She specializes in HIPEC and has over 20 years of experience.
Peritoneal mesothelioma doctors specialize in the abdominal form of this cancer, which forms on the peritoneum, the protective lining in the abdomen. They treat tumors that affect digestion and metabolism. Surgery with heated chemotherapy, or HIPEC, can improve the prognosis for peritoneal patients.
500+ SPECIALISTS AVAILABLE
Get to the Right Doctor, Faster
Connect with top-rated doctors specializing in mesothelioma treatment, who will personalize treatment options based on your diagnosis.
Bring your medical documents and a list of questions for your mesothelioma doctor, and be ready to communicate. The first appointment can be overwhelming. But a little preparation can help reduce your stress. By the end of the visit, you’ll have a plan and feel more prepared to begin treatment.
How to Prepare for Your Initial Visit
Be honest and open: Answer the doctor’s questions truthfully. Ask any questions and share your concerns. Expect the doctor to listen and show empathy.
Bring a list of medications: List all drugs and supplements you take, with dosages. Also, include any over-the-counter medications.
Bring someone with you: A family member or friend can take notes and ask questions. They can also provide support. You might forget some questions.
Organize your medical records: Bring all cancer-related records, including test results, biopsy reports, and imaging studies. Organize them by date or type for easy reference.
Share your medical history: Include past surgeries, treatments and illnesses. Note any jobs or asbestos exposure.
Use a notebook and pen: Take notes during the appointment to remember the discussion. If needed, ask the doctor to repeat or clarify anything.
Write down your questions: Before the appointment, make a list of questions. Ask family or friends for more questions to consider.
Organize your notes and remember your doctor will want to establish a new baseline. “The whole point is to have a fresh set of eyes with some expertise,” explains thoracic surgeon Dr. Andrea Wolf.
Questions to Ask Your Mesothelioma Doctor
The more information you have, the better you can make informed decisions. Always ask your doctor to explain anything you don’t understand.
Suggested Questions for Your Visit
What is the stage and location of my mesothelioma?
What are my treatment options and their benefits and risks?
How often will I need to come in for follow-up appointments and scans?
What is the expected timeline for treatment, and when will I know if it’s working?
Remember, the first appointment is just the beginning. You don’t have to make any decisions that day. Your doctor will guide you through starting treatment.
Common Questions About Mesothelioma Doctors
What is the difference between a mesothelioma specialist and other oncologists?
Mesothelioma doctors spend years specializing in diagnosing and treating this rare cancer. A specialist can access the latest treatment methods. They can also offer clinical trials that may improve life expectancy. General oncologists may never encounter mesothelioma.
How important is the cancer center or hospital where my doctor works?
A top hospital has the needed resources and staff to support your doctor. It should also have a good reputation and a history of successfully treating mesothelioma.
What types of doctors can provide a second opinion on a mesothelioma diagnosis?
A mesothelioma specialist, such as an oncologist, surgeon, radiologist or pulmonologist, can offer a second opinion on your diagnosis. They might suggest treatments doctors who aren’t experienced with mesothelioma miss. Getting a second opinion can also increase your chances of joining a clinical trial.
Can mesothelioma specialists recommend clinical trials?
Yes. A mesothelioma specialist is the best source for learning about a clinical trial. Your specialist will tell you about open clinical trials for your diagnosis. Some are only for patients who have yet to receive treatment. Some are for those who have run out of other treatment options. Sometimes, you may need to travel to take part in a clinical trial.
How do mesothelioma doctors determine the right treatment plan for me?
Mesothelioma doctors consider your treatment based on your cancer. They’ll note cancer progression, medical and treatment history and tumor cell type. They’ll also deliberate on the best approach with other mesothelioma experts.
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Asbestos.com is the nation’s most trusted mesothelioma resource
The Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.com has provided patients and their loved ones the most updated and reliable information on mesothelioma and asbestos exposure since 2006.
Our team of Patient Advocates includes a medical doctor, a registered nurse, health services administrators, veterans, VA-accredited Claims Agents, an oncology patient navigator and hospice care expert. Their combined expertise means we help any mesothelioma patient or loved one through every step of their cancer journey.
More than 30 contributors, including mesothelioma doctors, survivors, health care professionals and other experts, have peer-reviewed our website and written unique research-driven articles to ensure you get the highest-quality medical and health information.
About The Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.com
Assisting mesothelioma patients and their loved ones since 2006.
Helps more than 50% of mesothelioma patients diagnosed annually in the U.S.
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5-star reviewed mesothelioma and support organization.
My family has only the highest compliment for the assistance and support that we received from The Mesothelioma Center. This is a staff of compassionate and knowledgeable individuals who respect what your family is experiencing and who go the extra mile to make an unfortunate diagnosis less stressful. Information and assistance were provided by The Mesothelioma Center at no cost to our family.
Sean Marchese is a registered nurse with experience developing and managing respiratory oncology clinical trials and treatments. He has more than 10 years of clinical experience as a nurse in pain management, neurosurgery and clinical trials.
Fact-checked and verified content:
Our fact-checking process begins with a thorough review of all sources to ensure they are high quality. Then we cross-check the facts with original medical or scientific reports published by those sources, or we validate the facts with reputable news organizations, medical and scientific experts and other health experts. Each page includes all sources for full transparency.
Please read our editorial guidelines to learn more about our content creation and review process.
Michael Cole , Pleural Mesothelioma Survivor
