Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma - Advances in Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatments

This book provides essential information on recent advances in molecular genetics, epidemiology, translational research, and the latest results of clinical trials on mesothelioma. Significant progress has been made in understanding mesothelioma biology, and in developing new therapies for this refractory tumor, malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). Not only does this volume summarize the latest research-based data on the disease; it also shares insights into future research directions.

The book consists of 5 themed sections on: epidemiology, pathogenesis, screening and early detection, molecular genetics, and clinical aspects and management. Several chapters focus on new trends in the field, e.g. immune therapy and identification of biomarkers, molecular oncogenesis including genetic susceptibility, and molecular diagnostic pathology. The book also highlights new cancer treatment approaches, such as immunotherapy based on immune checkpoint inhibitors, which has meant a paradigm shift in other types of cancer, and given some hope to MPM patients. In turn, it discusses recent molecular pathological studies on mesothelioma, which claim to offer more accurate classifications than traditional morphology and immunohistochemistry-based approaches. All of these cutting-edge analyses provide the basis for a closing discussion on future developments and research directions.

Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma - Advances in Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatments has been edited and authored by respected researchers and will be of interest to medical, surgical and radiation oncologists; pulmonologists; pathologists and basic researchers alike. Since the disease represents a significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, scientists and clinicians from learners to experts, as well as fellows in training in these subspecialties, will value this book.

Professor Takashi Nakano

Center for Respiratory Medicine, Osaka, Japan

Professor Takashi Kijima

Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine,

Hyogo College of Medicine, Hyogo, Japan