Malignant mesothelioma

A 68-year-old woman is diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma following a thoracoscopy and biopsy. The tumor is confined to the pleura with no evidence of distant metastasis. She has a good performance status and wishes to pursue aggressive treatment options.

What is the most appropriate initial treatment for this patient?

A 70-year-old woman diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma is discussing her prognosis with her oncologist. She has a good performance status and no significant comorbidities. Her tumor was found to be of the epithelioid subtype on biopsy, and imaging shows no evidence of distant metastasis.

Which factor is associated with a more favorable prognosis in patients with malignant mesothelioma?

A 65-year-old man presents with pleuritic chest pain and dyspnea. He has a history of significant asbestos exposure. Imaging reveals pleural thickening and effusion.

Which of the following best describes the pathophysiology of malignant mesothelioma?

A 70-year-old man presents with shortness of breath and chest pain. He has a history of working in shipyards for over 30 years and was exposed to asbestos. He is concerned about his risk for mesothelioma.

Which of the following is the most significant risk factor for malignant mesothelioma in this patient?

A 70-year-old man presents with a 3-month history of progressive dyspnoea, chest pain, and weight loss. He has a history of asbestos exposure from working in construction for 40 years. On examination, he has decreased breath sounds and dullness to percussion over the right lower lung field. A chest X-ray reveals a right-sided pleural effusion and thickened pleura.

What is the most appropriate initial investigation to confirm the diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma?