Those suffering pleural mesothelioma often initially experience extreme shortness of breath. Often, a fluid build up in the pleura (which covers the lung) causes this breathlessness. This fluid build up is known as a pleural effusion.
A pleurodesis is a procedure whereby talcum powder is inserted into the pleura to stick both layers of the pleura together. The intention of a pleurodesis is to prevent the re-accumulation of fluid in the pleural space.
A study published in the European Journal of Radiology noted that 58% of patients (in a study of 99 persons) presented with large pleural effusions for which a pleurodesis offered potential relief. A pleurodesis is considered successful when no further fluid accumulates.
In South Australia, we have found that for someone suffering a pleural mesothelioma, a pleurodesis if often (but not always) suggested.
Clearly whether or not a pleurodesis should be performed following the diagnosis of mesothelioma is something that must be determined by your specialist.
