Why Choose Us for Peritoneal Mesothelioma Care
At Huntsman Cancer Institute, you receive comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for peritoneal mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal cavity. Your care team may include surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and supportive care specialists. We work together to create a personalized treatment plan focused on your diagnosis and needs. Our goal is to preserve your quality of life and long-term outcomes. We us advanced surgical techniques, precision radiation, and systemic therapies to provide the most effective care possible.
“I can’t say enough about how well I was taken care of. My care team is phenomenal."
—Peritoneal Mesothelioma Patient
Treatments We Offer
Treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma is tailored to the tumor stage, patient health, and location. These are state-of-the-art options offered at Huntsman Cancer Institute:
- Cytoreductive surgery, a surgical procedure that aims to remove as much cancer as possible from the abdominal cavity
- Chemotherapy, including systemic chemotherapy, that targets and kill cancer cells throughout the body, and intraperitoneal chemotherapy, which delivers chemotherapy drugs directly into the abdominal cavity.
- Immunotherapy, a treatment that uses the patient’s own immune system to fight cancer cells,
- Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), a cutting-edge treatment that combines heated chemotherapy with surgery. We are recognized globally for our expertise in HIPEC and are one of only a few hospitals in the United States offering the treatment.
Our Expertise
As the National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center serving the Mountain West, we’re here to offer you the latest treatments and the highest level of care. Here are just some of our areas of expertise:
- Multidisciplinary tumor boards made up of cancer specialists to coordinate care and fine-tune treatment
- Integrating chemotherapy, radiation, and surgical approaches
- Advanced surgical techniques and integration of clinical trials
Patient Care Philosophy
We believe no one should face cancer alone. Our dedicated and world-renowned doctors, nurses, and medical staff are at the forefront of patient-centered care. We treat the whole person, not just their cancer.
Each day, our medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists work together across disciplines to create and coordinate treatment plans for every patient. We understand cancer is a complex disease. That is why we use a team approach that includes social workers and support groups, as well as wellness and integrative health services such as acupuncture, massage, creative arts, and more.
Find a Peritoneal Mesothelioma Doctor
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Research
Huntsman Cancer Institute is a leader in cancer research, using genetic and molecular studies to improve diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship for rare diseases like peritoneal mesothelioma. Researchers explore targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and novel surgical techniques such as HIPEC, while actively enrolling patients in clinical trials to test innovative approaches.
With the largest Phase 1 clinical trials program in the Mountain West, we offer access to promising new therapies that may not be available elsewhere.
Clinical Trials
Make an Appointment with a Peritoneal Mesothelioma Specialist
To make an appointment with a peritoneal mesothelioma specialist, fill out our appointment form or call 801-587-7000. Our team will determine if your insurance covers treatment at Huntsman Cancer Institute or if you need a referral from a primary care doctor.
External providers can refer a patient using the online referral form or by calling 801-587-7000 to speak to a patient registration specialist.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Basics
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare cancer that occurs when malignant (cancerous) cells develop in the peritoneum, the thin layer of tissue that lines the inside of the abdomen and covers the organs in the abdomen.
These are warning signs of peritoneal mesothelioma:
- Pain or swelling in the abdomen
- Unexplained weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
Many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. If you are experiencing any concerning signs, please schedule a screening.
These are risk factors for peritoneal mesothelioma:
- Asbestos exposure
- Abdominal radiation therapy
Understand your risk. Schedule a genetic counseling session today.
Doctors may use the following to diagnose peritoneal mesothelioma:
- Physical exam and history
- Imaging tests, including chest X-rays
- Biopsy
When a person is diagnosed with cancer, concerns about treatments and side effects, hospital stays, and medical bills are common. Huntsman Cancer Institute offers many ways to support patients, caregivers, and loved ones.
There is no standard staging system for peritoneal mesothelioma. To recommend treatments, your health care team will consider several factors:
- The amount and location of mesothelioma in the abdomen
- Whether the disease has spread into the lymph nodes or outside the abdomen
- Whether the mesothelioma can be removed with surgery
Need help navigating your care? The Cancer Learning Center is here to support you with personalized guidance, resources, and answers to your questions.
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