OBJECTIVES: The median age at diagnosis of patients with pleural mesothelioma in the UK is 73 years. Recent series have shown the feasibility of extended pleurectomy decortication in the elderly, but with continuing debate about the efficacy of this treatment, we reviewed our experience to identify more detailed selection criteria.
METHODS: We reviewed prospectively collected data on all patients from 1999 to 2016 undergoing extended pleurectomy decortication. We compared clinical and pathological outcomes and survival data from patients 70 years and older with those younger than 70 years.
CONCLUSIONS: Although age in isolation should not be an exclusion criterion for extended pleurectomy decortication for mesothelioma, in the elderly, a more rigorous preoperative evaluation of nodal disease and an additional assessment of fitness for adjuvant chemotherapy are recommended.
[Read full article at original source]
Mesothelioma, Asbestos, and Legal Compensation: Basic Facts
Asbestos-Mesothelioma Case Evaluation Form
Free. Confidential. No Obligation.