Malignant Mesothelioma: Advances in Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Translational Therapies

Malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, in which the cancer cells are found in the sac lining the chest (pleura) or abdomen (peritoneum). This lethal disease is associated with asbestos and has vast economic and legal implications. As the disease takes approximately twenty years to manifest itself in humans, a wave of diagnoses is expected in the near future. In the United States alone, an estimated 3,500 - 4,000 patients are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually, and it is estimated that over the next 35 years, more than 250,000 people in Western Europe will be diagnosed with the disease. Malignant Mesothelioma, edited by internationally recognized experts in the field, is a comprehensive text that relates science, pathology, clinical aspects and therapy for mesothelioma under one cover. The book integrates the newest research and advances in its discussions of the disease, covering such topics as carcinogenesis, epidemiology, benchwork, endoscopy, multimodality approaches and treatment. It includes discussions on novel approaches to mesothelioma, such as gene therapy, vaccination strategies and immunotherapy, as well as discussions on the legal and economic aspects of the disease. Over 200 illustrations round out the text. An invaluable reference for the medical oncologist, thoracic surgeon, radiation oncologist, pulmonologist, and benchworker interested in the disease.