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Pleural Mesothelioma: Stage 2

Pleural mesothelioma progresses through a number of stages like all forms of cancer. Generally, pleural mesothelioma stage 2 or 1 is treatable, since these are the early stages of the disease. The problem lies in diagnosing pleural mesothelioma; because of the nature of this type of cancer, pathology is notoriously difficult. Symptoms may not be apparent for years, and by the time they are, the disease has usually progressed into its final stages.

Pleural Mesothelioma Staging Systems

The three systems used to stage the progression of pleural mesothelioma are the older Butchart System and the newer TNM and Brigham Systems. Increasingly, pathologists and oncologists are turning to the TNM method because of its greater precision in describing a patient's condition, how far the disease has progressed, and what other organs and bodily systems are involved and to what extent.

Butchart Stage II

Under Butchart, pleural mesothelioma stage II has spread from the point of origin on one side of the chest or abdomen and affects both sides. This classification may also be applied to a tumor that has spread from one visceral lining (such as the pleura) to another (the pericardium or peritoneal lining).

Brigham Stage 2

Although specifically developed for diagnosing pleural mesothelioma cases, the Brigham System is perhaps the least useful, since it describes the extent to which the lymph nodes are involved; once the disease has gotten to this point, it is usually inoperable. Under Stage 2, surgical removal of the cancer may still be possible; however, at least one lymph node is involved, making effective treatment far more difficult. It also means that it is far more likely that the cancer will return later.

TNM

TNM staging classifies pleural mesothelioma according to three broad characteristics: the tumor (T) itself and its size; the nodes (N) that are affected; and whether or not it has metastasized (M). There is no direct correlation to the other two staging systems, but generally, Stage 2 under TNM would be T1-4,N0, M0. This means that the cancer has spread to both sides of the chest or abdomen or from one visceral lining to another. However, the lymph nodes are not yet affected; therefore, there is a chance that the tumor can be removed by means of surgery.

Sources

1. http://www.mc.vanderbilt.edu/root/vumc.php?site=thoracic&doc=3594
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3. Galateau-Salle, Francoise. Pathology of Malignant Mesothelioma. Springer-Verlag London Limited: London. 2006.