Stages of Mesothelioma
Learn more about the four stages of mesothelioma and the diagnostic process around developing a treatment plan.
There are four stages used to identify how far along the disease has progressed. Unfortunately, due of the long latency period and general symptoms, most mesothelioma patients aren’t diagnosed until later stages. In general, at more advanced stages, patients have less curative treatment options and a worsening life expectancy. By the last stage, patients will likely only have palliative treatment options available to mitigate symptoms and improve quality of life.
- There are four stages of mesothelioma defined by certain disease characteristics.
- Early stage patients have more treatment options and a better prognosis.
- Advanced, late stage mesothelioma can often only be treated palliatively.
The Four Main Stages Breakdown
Stage 1 Mesothelioma
- Localized
- No metastasis or lymph node involvement
- Curative treatment options
- Best prognosis
Stage 2 Mesothelioma
- Localized
- Tumor has metastasized with minimal spread to lymph nodes
- Curative treatment options
Stage 3 Mesothelioma
- Localized to one side of the body
- Tumor has spread to nearby organs and lymph nodes
- Treatment options are usually palliative and non-surgical
- Best prognosis
Stage 4 Mesothelioma
- Spread to both sides of the body
- Tumor has spread to multiple organs, lymph nodes, and blood vessels
- Treatment is generally palliative
Pleural Mesothelioma Staging Systems
Malignant pleural mesothelioma, the most common type of mesothelioma, is the only type that has an approved staging system at this time. Many staging systems have been developed and used over the last several decades and each system possesses specific criteria for the different stages. A common theme across all staging systems reveals as the stage becomes higher in number, the disease is generally more advanced, more difficult to treat, and carries a worse life expectancy.
The three most common staging systems are as follows:
- TNM Staging System
- The Brigham Staging System
- The Butchart Staging System
Free Mesothelioma Guide
Do you have more questions about the stages of mesothelioma? Find the support you and your loved ones need with an information guide that includes the latest mesothelioma treatment options, top mesothelioma doctors and financial compensation assistance.
Types
There are four main types of mesothelioma based on the location in the body where tumors originate—most commonly affecting the lungs.
Treatment
While there is no cure for malignant mesothelioma, there are treatment options that can help patients improve their prognosis and reduce symptoms.
Diagnosis
Mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose and is often confused with other diseases. Currently, only a biopsy can definitively confirm mesothelioma.
Prognosis
Unfortunately, mesothelioma has a poor prognosis with a 5-year survival rate of only 9 percent. Most patients have a life-expectancy of about 1 year.
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Understand Your Legal Rights
Because so many companies knowingly put employees at risk of asbestos exposure, mesothelioma patients and their loved ones have legal rights. Talk to an attorney to learn about your compensation options.