Related Topics ► Other TopicsMesothelioma Treatment - Surgery - Paracentesis
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that most commonly develops in the lungs, but can also affect other organs as well. Approximately 10 to 20 percent of all cases affect the peritoneum, which is the mesothelial lining of the abdomen. This form of mesothelioma is just as difficult to diagnose and treat as other forms of this aggressive cancer. Once discovered, there are a few treatment options for those with peritoneal mesothelioma.
Paracentesis - Treating Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Paracentesis does not offer a cure for mesothelioma, but is used as a palliative measure to help improve the patient's quality of life and ease the symptoms of this disease.
The main goal of paracentesis is to remove fluid that has collected in the abdominal area. Peritoneal fluid buildup in the abdominal cavity is known as ascites, and this fluid can cause a number of problems. Paracentesis can help to relieve the pain and pressure in the abdomen that is associated with ascites, which can cause complications involving the bowels, kidneys, and other parts of the digestive system.
When undergoing paracentesis, a doctor will administer local anesthesia and then insert a long, hollow needle into the abdomen. The fluid will then be drained, which may take a few hours or even a few days. A sample of the fluid will be sent to the lab, and after the fluid is drained a doctor will be able to determine the next stage of treatment.
Paracentesis is uncomfortable, but few risks are typically involved. When the needle is inserted, patients may feel pain or pressure. Those who undergo this procedure may also experience dizziness, especially with large amounts of fluid removal. Doctors may insert an IV to help introduce necessary fluids into the blood stream to help prevent blood pressure problems and shock.
Sources:
- Mesothelioma Lawsuits Filed in Madison County, Illinois
2008-08-21 10:53:26
Recently in Madison County District Court in Illinois, two new lawsuits were filed involving patients who have developed mesothelioma cancer as a result of asbestos exposure. The first was filed by ...Read More
- New Study May Improve Early Diagnosis of Mesothelioma
2008-08-13 16:48:17
Diagnosing mesothelioma is one of the most pressing problems facing medical researchers and practitioners involved in fighting this aggressive cancer. Fortunately, the results of a new study may help ...Read More - Man with Mesothelioma Receives More Than $16 Million in Lawsuit
2008-08-12 10:46:47
Marvin Penn, at the age of 71, achieved an important victory on June 27 when he and wife Josephine Penn received a $16.25 million dollar verdict in an asbestos-related lawsuit. Penn was diagnosed w ...Read More
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