A group of scientists in Australia have discovered a new potential treatment for mesothelioma cancer victims with the application of two treatments normally reserved for skin cancer patients. During several tests conducted on laboratory mice with advanced mesothelioma tumors, a skin cancer cream known as Imiquimod was combined with an anti-cancer drug, antiCD40. The two were applied to the mesothelioma mice and, according to researchers, 50 percent of the mice receiving the treatment therapy went into remission following treatment.

The study, conducted by researchers from the Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Australia, is considered "breakthrough" according to a PerthNow news article. Additionally, scientists feel that this potentially new mesothelioma treatment may be more readily available than other treatments being researched and tested, as one of the drugs is "already commercially available and the other is currently being tested in clinical trials," according to lead researchers of the study.

Mesothelioma Defined

Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects thousands of individuals worldwide. It has largely been classified as a relatively rare condition, although many physicians and scientists predict a large increase of victims in the near future because of the dormant nature of the cancer. Mesothelioma cancer is caused by exposure to varied levels of asbestos fibers and dust. During the early part of the 20th century asbestos, which derives from vermiculite, was mined and used in a plethora of products and much more heavily within the construction industry leading to the diagnosis of many construction-related workers.

There are currently no known successful treatments for mesothelioma cancer, which ravages the internal organs for 10 to 30 years in a dormant state, after which point signs and symptoms become apparent and treatment options are often sited as dismal to a victim’s outcome. Patients of mesothelioma cancer are advised to speak with a medical professional immediately and those who suspect they may suffer from asbestos-related conditions can also suggested to contact a medical professional and experienced mesothelioma attorney for additional information.

Diagnosing Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a growing condition in not only America, but around the world. As signs and symptoms of mesothelioma are being revealed following initial exposure to asbestos, which may have occurred up to 40 years earlier, it can be difficult and often daunting to receive a mesothelioma diagnosis not only for a victim, but friends and families as well.

It is important for an individual to attempt to take control of their condition by learning as to when initial asbestos exposure may have occurred. By determining this, an individual increases their chances of receiving monetary compensation for their disease through the development of a mesothelioma lawsuit. Such compensation can assist a victim with paying for costly medical treatments including chemotherapy treatments, which can range in the thousands. For more information on mesothelioma, victims can receive a free consultation from an experienced mesothelioma law firm.