The 4 Stages of Mesothelioma...

Stage 2 Mesothelioma Cancer

Stage 2 of mesothelioma cancer is the second of four stages. Although the cancer is still localized at this point, unlike Stage 1, it has begun to spread from the origination of the tumor. During stage 2, victims may start to experience mild symptoms of mesothelioma but these symptoms are still usually not enough to cause concern for a diagnosis.  However, if a patient is able to get a diagnosis during this stage of the disease, the prognosis is typically above average.

In stage 2, the tumor may start to invade the lung, chest cavity, or diaphragm. When this happens, the pleural starts to thicken. In peritoneal mesothelioma, the tumor may start to invade the intestinal area or the lining of the abdominal cavity, creating plaque along the abdominal walls and surrounding organs. Fortunately, since the disease hasn’t spread too far, surgical options may still be available depending upon the patient’s physical condition and ability to withstand the operation.

Stage 2 Symptoms

In stage 2 of the disease, if the victim has pleural mesothelioma, symptoms may include mild chest pain, coughing, and moderate difficulty when breathing. For victims with peritoneal mesothelioma, common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, irregular bowel movements, and weight fluctuations. Patients with other types of mesothelioma, such as pericardial, may experience a combination of all of the above along with sweating and fevers. As the stages increase, these symptoms become more pronounced.

If you’ve been exposed to asbestos, it’s extremely important to seek medical assistance even if you think your symptoms seem minor. Mesothelioma symptoms mimic the common cold and/or flu, so it’s imperative to be proactive instead of assuming that your ailments aren’t dangerous. Always remember to provide your physician with your work history, including all occasions in which you were exposed to asbestos.

Stage 2 Mesothelioma Treatments

Fortunately, since the disease has not spread too far during this stage, a number of mesothelioma treatments can be used. Extrapleural pneumonectomy or pleurectomy/decortication are typically advised by physicians during Stage 2 as it helps doctors to more effectively remove the tumor from the lungs. As long as the tumor is in one area and the patient is in good health, surgery is almost always recommended.

Along with surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy usually follows in order to kill any lingering cancerous cells that were not eliminated via surgery.

Stage 2 Prognosis

The survival rate for those with Stage 2 Mesothelioma is considered above average. According to American Cancer Society (ACS), stage 2 victims can expect a life expectancy, on average, of about 18 months. Keep in mind though, that these statistics are not set in stone and each individual’s life expectancy may vary. While some patients may be given a life expectancy of 18 months, they may go on to live several years.

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