mesothelioma test for asbestos-related cancer developed

24th August 2009
Early detection of cancer by studying the protein mesothelin
Oxford - Scientists at the University of Oxford, according to information have a more sensitive test for asbestos mesothelioma develops. This form of cancer occurs long after asbestos exposure. The life expectancy of patients is usually short. The new test analyzes the values ​​of a protein that is closely associated with cancer in the fluids around the lungs. Details of the study were published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.

Affected mainly artisans

Mesothelioma tumors are deadly on the surface of the lung. Although relatively rare, they are treated because of their position and their limited response to chemotherapy difficult. The disease also occurs in people who have never come into contact with asbestos. The inhalation of asbestos dust appears to be an important risk factor. Most importantly, always craftsmen such as carpenters, plumbers and electricians involved. Since it can take decades to a disease outbreak, experts expect according to the BBC that the number of cases in the UK with around 2,200 in 2013 will reach record levels. Laws prohibit the industrialized countries the occupational exposure to asbestos. In developing countries there are no such restrictions.

The scientists focused on ways to determine the cause of mesothelioma, pleural effusions. It is the accumulation of fluid in the pleural space between the pleura and pleura. Currently one of the pleural fluid cytology is performed, a laboratory test for cancerous cells examined.

Early detection through examination of the protein mesothelin

The team from the University of Oxford, however, considers this test is not very sensitive. Members of the team worked with the pleural fluid samples from more than 200 patients who were referred to a specialist clinic. They examined the levels of mesothelin protein that is released in most patients with mesothelioma in large quantities in the pleural fluid. It was found that the protein levels were so high in cancer patients almost six times as secondary lung cancer and ten times as high as in those with early disease. The scientist Helen Davies said that this was an opportunity to show how the beginning of mesothelioma can be detected in easily. Since most patients, only approximately twelve months to live, every day is precious.