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Mesothelioma Staging
Staging is the process of finding out how far the cancer has spread.
Staging of mesothelioma is based on imaging studies such as x-rays, CT
scans, and MRI scans. The treatment and outlook for patients with
mesothelioma largely depends on the stage (extent of spread) of their
cancer. Since pleural mesothelioma occurs most frequently and has been
studied the most, it is the only mesothelioma for which a staging
classification exists.
Butchart Staging System:
Stage I: Mesothelioma is present within the right or
left pleura, and may also involve the lung, pericardium, or diaphragm (the
muscle separating the chest from the abdomen) on the same side.
Stage II: Mesothelioma invades the chest wall or
involves the esophagus (food passage connecting the throat to the
stomach), heart, or pleura on both sides. The lymph nodes in the chest may
also be involved.
Stage III: Mesothelioma has penetrated through the
diaphragm into the peritoneum (lining of the abdominal cavity). Lymph
nodes beyond those in the chest may also be involved.
Stage IV: There is evidence of distant metastases
(spread through the bloodstream to other organs).
Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor may need to assess the
stage to help plan treatment.
Mesothelioma is described as localized if the cancer is found only on
the membrane surface where it originated. It is classified as advanced if
it has spread beyond the original membrane surface to other parts of the
body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs.
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