December 15, 2014 – There may soon be a new treatment option available for patients suffering with mesothelioma. Initial research indicates that immunotherapy treatment may be effective for those suffering from malignant mesothelioma.
Exposure to asbestos causes malignant mesothelioma with solid tumors typically forming in the pleural lining of the lungs. Until recently, treatment options have been limited for those suffering from the disease. Chemotherapy and radiation are the most common types of mesothelioma treatment. In cases of early detection, surgery may also be an option. Regardless of the treatment selected, the prognosis is usually poor for those suffering with the terminal illness.
Immunotherapy and Gene Therapy for Mesothelioma
There are various types of immunotherapy that are being tested and show potential for effectively treating mesothelioma. Currently, a study is being conducted at the University of Pennsylvania’s Abramson Cancer Center to analyze ACT’s effectiveness in treating mesothelioma. Researchers are studying one form of ACT that uses chimeric antigen receptors. In this type of ACT treatment, the modified T cells identify the mesothelin in the cancerous cells and obliterate them.
Penn researchers are also examining overactive and underactive T cells because both affect a person’s immune system and can result in cancer. The study examines various immunotherapies that prevent a specific protein located in T cells called CTLA-4. Immunotherapy treatments are designed to enable “good” T cells to remain active so that they can attack and destroy cancerous cells.
The research shows promise for the future of mesothelioma treatment. Instead of relying on a patient’s own immune system to fight the cancer, innovative medical advances allow for the synthetic creation of T cells via immunotherapy to fight malignant tumors.
Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyers at Shein Law Obtain the Maximum Amount of Compensation for Individuals Exposed to Asbestos
Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyers at Shein Law keep current on critical research that may positively impact those afflicted with mesothelioma. If you or your loved one has been exposed to asbestos and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestosis or lung cancer, you may be entitled to compensation. Our offices are conveniently located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Pennsauken, New Jersey, and we represent clients in Southeast Pennsylvania and South Jersey. Call Shein Law today to schedule your free confidential consultation at 1-877-SHEINLAW (743-4652) or submit an online inquiry form.