Stages of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma stage varies from 1 to 4 and is dependent on tumor size and location. Early-stage mesothelioma is typically more limited to one site, while late-stage mesothelioma indicates tumors spread beyond the primary organs and across the chest or abdominal cavity. Staging plays an important part in the determination of treatment.
- Stage 1
The cancer in the stage is localized and isolated. Surgery at this point is the most successful and the rate of survival is higher. The estimated life expectancy of a patient at stage 1 is 22.2 months.
- Stage 2
The cancer has spread from the primary organ and moved into adjacent tissues. Surgical intervention is still a valuable option. The estimated life expectancy of a patient at stage 2 is 20 months.
- Stage 3
Cancer has spread beyond the primary organs and into the regional lymph nodes. Surgery can be an option in selective circumstances. At stage 3, the patient’s median life expectancy is 17.9 months.
- Stage 4
Tumors have spread beyond the adjacent tissues, regional lymph nodes and into distant organs. Chemotherapy and immunotherapy may ease symptoms while surgery is no more a viable treatment option. At stage 4, the median life expectancy is 14.9 months.