Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses certain chemical agents or drugs that are specifically destructive to malignant tissues and cells. Doctors may recommend single agent chemotherapy or a combination chemotherapy treatment. The single agent chemotherapy treatment involves the use of just one type of chemical or drug. The combination chemotherapy method involves the use of more than one chemical or drug. While it is not a cure for mesothelioma, chemotherapy treatment may help to prevent the spread of the disease or slow its growth. Chemotherapy may also shrink tumors before surgery is performed (called neoadjuvant therapy), destroy tumor cells still remaining after surgery (called adjuvant therapy), and relieve symptoms, such as pain (called palliative therapy).
Generally, chemotherapy drugs are delivered by injection into a vein. Depending on the type and location of the cancer and the drug used, however, the chemotherapy drugs may be delivered by mouth, into the muscle or skin or by placing the drugs directly into a body cavity (called intracavitary chemotherapy).
Chemotherapy drugs usually cause fatigue or exhaustion. Patients also may experience nausea, vomiting and hair loss. Specific side effects will vary, based on the drug, its dosage, and the length of treatment. Other chemotherapy-related drugs and therapies may minimize the side effects or will be prescribed for use following chemotherapy.