British Thoracic Society
Friday, 21 April, 2017

British Thoracic Society consultation on a guideline for the investigation and management of pleural mesothelioma.

The aim of this document is to provide evidence-based guidance for the investigation of suspected malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), and the subsequent treatment and care of individuals with proven MPM. MPM is a rare cancer where the malignancy affects the pleura, a thin membrane of lubricating cells than line the lungs and chest wall. The focus of this guideline is MPM as it is far more common than mesothelioma occurring in the abdomen.

The College response generally commends this guideline for clarifying issues around the management of mesothelioma, in a field often lacking evidence.  Some concerns were raised about a particular statement around chemotherapy in the guideline.