Patients presenting with symptoms of mesothelioma go through a series of tests and scans to confirm their diagnosis, but magnetic resonance imaging is rarely part of the process. But new research conducted by scientists in the United Kingdom suggests a novel use of the technology that may provide benefit to those with the rare, asbestos-related form of cancer.
Mesothelioma Tumors Are Often Inoperable
Because mesothelioma tumors are often inoperable, treatment options are extremely limited. Therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can be effective but can also have toxic systemic effects and cause damage to surrounding tissue. Researchers from the Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging at the University College of London recently concluded a study of whether magnetic resonance imaging technology could be used to overcome these challenges.
With a goal of improving treatment delivery for difficult-to-treat cancers like glioblastoma and malignant mesothelioma, the group investigated whether a magnetic resonance imaging system could be used as a navigation system that would enable image-guided remote control of magnetic seeds that could kill tumor cells from within.
MINIMA Technology Holds Promise for Mesothelioma Treatment
If found effective, the new technology, called Minimally Invasive Imaging Guided Ablation — or MINIMA — may prove helpful in extending the lives of mesothelioma patients. The protocol would use the magnetic fields in an MRI scanner to steer a 2 mm magnetic seed through the body directly to the interior of a tumor, where it could then be heated and destroy cancer cells. The technology has successfully been tested on laboratory animals with positive outcomes.
Though the initial tests were not aimed at mesothelioma tumors, lead author Rebecca Baker expressed optimism about its use, saying, “Using an MRI scanner to deliver a therapy in this way allows the therapeutic seed and the tumor to be imaged throughout the procedure, ensuring the treatment is delivered with precision and without having to perform open surgery. This could be beneficial to patients by reducing recovery times and minimizing the chance of side effects.”
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, effective treatment is the key to extending survival. For information about accessing state-of-the-art care, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today at 1-800-692-8608.
