Mesothelioma is one of the deadliest forms of cancer. It begins in the lining of the organs and then spreads to other body parts. Mesothelioma has a strong association with asbestos exposure. Yet, due to its rate of growth, people may go three decades or longer after asbestos exposure before a doctor diagnoses them with mesothelioma.
Sadly, mesothelioma tends to progress rapidly once it reaches that point. There is no cure for mesothelioma yet, and it tends to have a negative impact on someone’s quality of life as well. Thankfully, a recent research paper about a dog with mesothelioma in Japan could point to signs of hope for humans at risk of mesothelioma.
What this case involves
Mesothelioma is relatively rare in dogs. When it does occur, it is typically deadly, just as it is in humans. Researchers in Japan treated a nine-year-old male dog who presented with pleural mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma specifically develops in the linings of the lungs. Doctors noted that there were two genetic markers for mesothelioma present in the dog. They proceeded to surgically remove the cancerous tissue. Nine months later, the dog remained cancer-free.
This case is promising because it shows that certain markers could help identify at-risk individuals before the cancer becomes a serious health threat. The case also highlights how early diagnosis could make all the difference for those who do develop mesothelioma.
Keeping track of recent advances related to mesothelioma can benefit those diagnosed with this deadly form of cancer and those who are at risk of developing this condition because they have been exposed to asbestos through work.