Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) therapy is a treatment option that has been explored in combination with chemotherapy for various types of cancer, including pleural mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs caused by exposure to asbestos.
TTFields therapy involves the use of low-intensity alternating electric fields to disrupt cancer cell division and prevent tumor growth. It’s delivered through electrodes placed on the skin in the region surrounding the tumor. The electric fields generated by these electrodes can interfere with the division process of cancer cells, thereby slowing their growth and potentially causing them to die.
When combined with chemotherapy, TTFields therapy aims to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment by providing an additional mechanism to target cancer cells. Chemotherapy works by killing rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells, and TTFields therapy, in theory, can complement this by further interfering with cancer cell division.
Clinical trials have been conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combining TTFields therapy with chemotherapy for pleural mesothelioma. Some studies have shown promising results, suggesting that this combination treatment could potentially improve outcomes for patients compared to chemotherapy alone.
However, the use of TTFields therapy alongside chemotherapy for pleural mesothelioma is still an area of ongoing research, and it may not be widely available or considered a standard treatment option in all medical settings. As with any cancer treatment, the decision to use TTFields therapy in combination with chemotherapy should be made based on various factors, including the patient’s specific condition, overall health, and treatment goals, and should be discussed thoroughly with a healthcare team specializing in mesothelioma.
Always consult with healthcare professionals who specialize in the treatment of pleural mesothelioma to get the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding available treatment options, potential benefits, risks, and the suitability of combining therapies like TTFields with chemotherapy in an individual case.