There are currently three main systems for rating the stages of mesothelioma cancer: Butchart Staging, TNM Staging, and Brigham Staging. All three systems address pleural mesothelioma only. Understanding this system allows the patient to get an idea of the options available. While each has its own variances, they generally agree on staging information. Here are the stages of mesothelioma:

Stage 1

Stage 1 mesothelioma means the cancer is local. In order to qualify for this particular stage, the cancer must be only in one organ or region. It has to be small. Usually, in this stage, the tumor is in one side or the other.. For this stage, the cancer cannot be in any lymph nodes. In most cases, in this stage, the mesothelioma is still operable, confined usually to the pleural lining. The prognosis at stage 1 can be good if the cancer is removed completely.

Stage 2

In Stage 2, the cancer is larger. It has also begun to spread to one other tissue, usually adjacent to the original site. There may also be some involvement of the lymph nodes. At this stage, the cancer is still operable. However, with lymph node involvement, there is a higher chance that the cancer has spread. The pleural lining tumor may have grown to involve the pericardium. With follow-up radiation or chemotherapy, the prognosis at this stage is better than for more advanced stages.

Stage 3

In Stage 3 the tumor has grown into much of the adjacent tissues. The entire lymph node system may be involved, and, the cancer has spread into various parts of the abdomen like the heart, ribs, or esophagus. Most doctors consider this the inoperable stage. The prognosis for this stage not good. While some may live for a year or more, it is usually terminal.

Stage 4

Stage 4 mesothelioma has the worst prognosis. The cancer has spread through the lymph node system or the blood system into many parts of the body. This means the cancer has metastasized. At this point, the only treatment option is palliative care to make the patient comfortable. In most cases, the survival rate is under 1 year.

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