If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, then you have likely met with an oncologist. Oncologists are doctors who specialize in treating and diagnosing cancer. Mesothelioma doctors are oncologists that have further specialization in mesothelioma treatment and therapy.
Your Oncologist's Role in Mesothelioma Therapy
The oncologist is likely to be one of many doctors that you will work with during mesothelioma treatment. This is because mesothelioma therapy often requires patients to undergo a number of diagnostic procedures. Different doctors often specialize in different types of treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, etc.).
As such, it is typically the role of the oncologist to serve as the "supervisor" to the treatment process as a whole. This means that the oncologist will coordinate efforts among various doctors and procedures to ensure that the sum of all parts results in the best treatment possible.
Receiving Mesothelioma Treatment from Your Oncologist
Oftentimes, a mesothelioma patient begins the diagnostic phase by visiting his or her family doctor. If preliminary tests indicate asbestos cancer, the general physician will likely refer the patient to a specialized mesothelioma oncologist. He or she may offer several referrals for the patient to choose from.
Regardless of how you end up at your oncologist's office, you can expect a full line of testing procedures. He or she will likely start by asking you about the symptoms you are experiencing. A physical exam may also be performed. Diagnosis testing may include procedures such a biopsy, blood tests, X-rays and MRI or CT scan.
Once a mesothelioma diagnosis has been confirmed, the oncologist's focus turns to mesothelioma therapy. The course of treatment recommended varies on a case-by-case basis. Potential avenues for treatment include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and enrollment in clinical trials.
Take an Active Role in Your Mesothelioma Therapy
Certainly, patients should trust their oncologists to give the best treatment advice possible. However, it is important to ask any questions that you may have during diagnosis and therapy. By staying informed, you can better understand the treatment options available to you. Understanding the treatment process can also help reduce anxiety felt by you and your family. Additionally, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from another oncologist to ensure that all therapy options have been explored.
For more information on oncologists and asbestos cancer treatment, browse our list of leading mesothelioma doctors or contact us.