Malignant mesothelioma is a form of cancer which is caused by contact with asbestos. The most common form of the disease is malignant pleural mesothelioma, where cancer cells are found in the sac lining of the chest, or pleura. Most sufferers are from industries that have been exposed to breathing asbestos, but others may have unknowingly been exposed to asbestos in a household environment. The incidence of mesothelioma is increasing and, due to its delayed effect (taking approximately 20 years to manifest itself in humans), is expected to reach its peak in 2020. It is also an active area of research as physicians are becoming more aware of the problem, and also its legal and economic implications. This book presents a comprehensive overview of mesothelioma aimed at all health care professionals who come into contact with diseased patients. The book includes chapters on epidemiology, diagnosis, histopathology, radiology, surgery, chemotherapy, immune therapy and radiotherapy. A molecular biology section focuses on the carcinogenic effects of asbestos fibres on cell signalling, angiogensis and angiogenic growth factors, the immune response and genetic abnormalities detected in the disease. Future therapies are also covered.
About the Author
Dr Ken O'Byrne is President of the British Mesothelioma Trust. Professor Valerie Rusch, M.D. is currently Chief of Thoracic Surgery at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, where she also holds the William G. Cahan Chair. She is a member of the Editorial Boards for The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, The Journal of Clinical Oncology, The Oncologist, and Lung Cancer.
- Title: Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
- Editors: Kenneth O'Byrne, Valerie Rusch
- Hardcover: 480 pages
- Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA; 1 edition (December 25, 2006)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0198529309
- ISBN-13: 978-0198529309
- Book Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.8 x 1.2 inches
- List Price: $198.50
- Amazon.com Price: $162.32
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