Though malignant pleural mesothelioma is always considered fatal, some patients fare better with the disease than others, and have longer survival times. A recent study authored by Greek researchers suggests that an easy-to-perform blood analysis can provide a highly accurate prognosis for patients diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma.
Greek Researchers Conduct Study of Mesothelioma Patient Outcomes
The mesothelioma researchers behind the study published in the September issue of Clinical Practice are from the University of Thessaly, the University Hospital of Larissa in Larissa, Greece, the University of Athens, Sotiria Hospital in Athens, and the School of Sciences of the University of Thessaly in Lamia, Greece. The scientists noted high levels of certain peptides known as BNPs, which have previously proven useful in diagnosing cardiovascular diseases. They set out to determine whether increased levels of BNPs in patients with mesothelioma could have prognostic implications beyond diagnosis.
To test their theory, the group conducted an observational study of patients diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma between January 2007 and October 2018. They identified 19 patients in whom factors such as age, degree of pleural thickening, and performance status did not differ; all patients received chemotherapy, and none underwent surgery.
Study Demonstrates Prognostic Value of BNP Ratio for Mesothelioma
The results of the mesothelioma study were significant. The group had a one-year survival of 52.6% and a two-year survival of 31.6%, with non-survivors having higher pleural fluid BNP at two years and higher BNP ratios than survivors. Patients whose BNP ratios were above or equal to the median value had one- and two-year survival rates of 20% and 0% respectively, while those whose BNP ratios were below the median had a one-year survival rate of 88.9% and a two-year survival rate of 66.7%.
The significantly higher survival rate of mesothelioma patients with low BNP expression can be extremely helpful to physicians offering guidance to their patients, especially because testing the pleural fluid/blood BNP ratio is something that can be done easily and at a low cost.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma, information like this can help you navigate your future decisions. For assistance with other resources, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today at 1-800-692-8608.
