Radiation Therapy for Mesothelioma

Overview

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to damage cancer cell DNA. In mesothelioma, it can improve local control after surgery or provide meaningful pain relief when tumors irritate the chest wall or nerves.

Planning and Simulation

• CT planning scan with custom immobilization to target the tumor precisely.
• Breathing motion management and careful dose constraints to protect normal lung and heart.

Techniques

• IMRT/VMAT for conformal dose around complex anatomy.
• 3D conformal or targeted fields for palliative relief.

When It’s Used

• After pleurectomy to reduce microscopic residual disease in select cases.
• Palliative therapy for chest wall pain, bleeding, or compressive masses.

Side Effects

• Fatigue, skin irritation, cough, and temporary swallowing discomfort.
• Most effects resolve within weeks; report new or worsening symptoms promptly.

Key Takeaways

Well-planned radiation complements surgery and chemotherapy and can significantly improve comfort and function.