Stage 4 mesothelioma is the most advanced form of the disease and is accompanied by severe symptoms and a poor prognosis. By this final stage, tumors may have metastasized, or spread beyond the original affected area to the lymph nodes, brain, spine, prostate, the lining of the heart, and elsewhere.
Symptoms
Symptoms that begin to surface in the earlier stages of mesothelioma intensify at stage 4. The tumor has spread beyond the lungs and is no longer isolated to one area, so patients may endure a variety of symptoms, including:
- Chest tightness and pain
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fever and night sweats
- Pain in the abdomen
- Fatigue and discomfort
- Severe weight loss
Life Expectancy and Prognosis
Stage 4 mesothelioma cancer is likely to continue to spread. As a result, the median survival time for stage 4 mesothelioma patients is approximately 15 months, according to research from the Journal of Thoracic Oncology. This is the shortest life expectancy of any stage of mesothelioma cancer.
That said, a positive response to treatment can extend survival time. Following a stage 4 mesothelioma diagnosis with good prognostic factors — such as a young age and good overall health — you can outlive the average survival time. However, no two cases are the same, and it’s impossible to predict exactly how long a patient will live.
Treatment Options
Unfortunately, there is no cure for mesothelioma at any stage, and there are few treatment options available at stage 4. Often, surgeries to remove the entire tumor are out of the question. However, smaller surgeries may be performed to remove as much of the mass as possible. Typically, these surgeries help patients breathe more comfortably and live in as little pain as possible. Additionally, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may help slow tumor growth.
Contact a Mesothelioma Attorney Near You
No matter the stage, a mesothelioma diagnosis is devastating. At Morgan & Morgan, we believe the price of pain is infinite. However, compensation can pay for medical bills and secure your family’s financial future as well as grant a sense of justice. Our asbestos attorneys want to be by your side during these trying times, fighting for your best interests so you can focus on what matters most. If we move forward with your case, we’ll assign you a full team of lawyers and legal staff who will handle every phase of your case personally, ensuring the best service possible. And we never charge by the hour — we get paid only if we win for you. We’ve recovered billions of dollars on behalf of more than 100,000 clients. Find out what Morgan & Morgan can do for you by filling out a free case evaluation form.