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Updated: Mar 21, 2026
Implantation and Monitoring by PET/CT of an Orthotopic Model of Human Pleural Mesothelioma in Athymic Mice
Published on: December 21, 2019
[Surgical therapy of malignant pleural mesothelioma]
M Schirren1, S Sponholz1, S Oguzhan1
1Klinik für Thoraxchirurgie, Helios Dr. Horst Schmidt Klinik, Ludwig-Erhard-Straße 100, 65199, Wiesbaden, Deutschland.
Abstract:
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare and aggressive tumor disease, which rapidly leads to death if untreated. In Germany the incidence of newly occurring disease is expected to reach a peak in the coming 5 years. An R0 resection for MPM is technically impossible; therefore, the aim of surgical procedures is to achieve the maximum amount of cytoreduction. There are two established surgical techniques for treatment of MPM, extrapleural pneumonectomy and tumor pleurectomy with decortication. The type and extent of surgery are currently controversially discussed. Within multimodal therapy concepts including cytoreductive surgery, long-term remission is possible in selected patients. When choosing the appropriate surgical therapy the high incidence of recurrence has to be borne in mind.
Insights
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a deadly cancer peaking soon in Germany. Cytoreductive surgery, though controversial, is key in multimodal therapy for potential long-term remission in select patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare, aggressive cancer with a high mortality rate.
- Incidence in Germany is projected to peak within five years, necessitating effective treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the role and controversies surrounding surgical techniques in MPM treatment.
- To highlight the importance of cytoreduction within multimodal therapy for achieving long-term remission.
Main Methods:
- Review of established surgical techniques: extrapleural pneumonectomy and tumor pleurectomy with decortication.
- Analysis of cytoreductive surgery's role in multimodal treatment concepts for MPM.
Main Results:
- Complete tumor resection (R0) is technically unfeasible for MPM.
- Cytoreductive surgery aims to maximize tumor removal, offering potential long-term remission in selected cases.
- High recurrence rates must be considered when selecting surgical approaches.
Conclusions:
- Surgical intervention, focusing on maximal cytoreduction, is a critical component of multimodal therapy for MPM.
- The choice between extrapleural pneumonectomy and tumor pleurectomy remains a subject of debate.
- Long-term remission is achievable in carefully selected MPM patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery.
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