Why Specialized Care Matters

Research shows that mesothelioma patients treated at high-volume centers have better outcomes. These centers offer multidisciplinary tumor boards where thoracic surgeons, oncologists, radiation specialists, and pathologists review cases together. They also have access to the latest clinical trials and treatment protocols that community hospitals may not offer.

Leading Mesothelioma Programs

These NCI-designated cancer centers have established mesothelioma programs with experienced teams. They regularly treat mesothelioma patients and participate in research to advance treatment.

MD Anderson Cancer Center

NCI Comprehensive

Houston, TX

Thoracic oncology, multimodal therapy, clinical trials

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Memorial Sloan Kettering

NCI Comprehensive

New York, NY

Surgical innovation, immunotherapy research

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Brigham and Women's Hospital

NCI Comprehensive (Dana-Farber)

Boston, MA

Pioneered P/D surgery, multimodal protocols

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Mayo Clinic

NCI Comprehensive

Rochester, MN

Integrated care model, second opinions

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Moffitt Cancer Center

NCI Comprehensive

Tampa, FL

Mesothelioma Research Program, clinical trials

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University of Chicago Medicine

NCI Comprehensive

Chicago, IL

Comprehensive thoracic program, HIPEC

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University of Pennsylvania (Abramson)

NCI Comprehensive

Philadelphia, PA

Thoracic surgery, radiation therapy innovation

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UCSF Helen Diller Cancer Center

NCI Comprehensive

San Francisco, CA

Thoracic oncology, translational research

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This is not a comprehensive list. The NCI maintains a directory of all designated cancer centers at cancer.gov. Our cancer centers directory lists facilities by state.

Your Mesothelioma Care Team

Treatment typically involves multiple specialists working together. Understanding each role helps you navigate care and ask the right questions.

Thoracic Surgeon

Surgical treatment

Performs lung and chest surgery, including pleurectomy/decortication (P/D) and extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP). Look for surgeons who have performed 50+ mesothelioma surgeries.

Ask: How many mesothelioma surgeries have you performed?

Medical Oncologist

Systemic therapy

Manages chemotherapy (typically pemetrexed + cisplatin), immunotherapy (nivolumab + ipilimumab), and coordinates clinical trial enrollment.

Ask: What systemic therapies do you recommend for my stage?

Radiation Oncologist

Radiation therapy

Plans and delivers radiation, often after surgery (adjuvant) or for symptom control. May use advanced techniques like IMRT or proton therapy.

Ask: Will radiation be part of my treatment plan?

Pulmonologist

Lung health

Often involved in initial diagnosis through bronchoscopy or thoracentesis. Helps manage breathing and lung function throughout treatment.

Ask: What can I do to maintain my lung function?

Pathologist

Diagnosis confirmation

Analyzes biopsy tissue to confirm mesothelioma diagnosis and determine cell type (epithelioid, sarcomatoid, or biphasic). Cell type significantly impacts prognosis.

Ask: What is my cell type and what does it mean for treatment?

Palliative Care Specialist

Quality of life

Focuses on symptom management and quality of life from diagnosis onward. Not just for end-of-life care. Helps with pain, breathing, and emotional support.

Ask: How can palliative care help me during treatment?

When to Get a Second Opinion

A second opinion from a mesothelioma specialist is strongly recommended. Most major cancer centers offer consultations, including remote review of imaging and pathology. Consider seeking a second opinion if:

  • You were diagnosed at a community hospital without mesothelioma experience
  • You've been told surgery is not an option without a specialist consultation
  • Your treatment plan doesn't include a multidisciplinary tumor board review
  • You haven't been offered information about clinical trials
  • Your diagnosis was made without immunohistochemistry confirmation
  • You want to explore all available treatment options

Getting a second opinion is standard practice in cancer care. A good doctor will support your decision to seek one.

Telemedicine and Remote Consultations

Many leading cancer centers now offer telemedicine consultations. This allows you to access specialized expertise without traveling long distances for an initial evaluation. The specialist can review your imaging, pathology slides, and medical records remotely, then provide recommendations. If surgery or treatment at their center is recommended, you would travel for that specific care.

Contact the patient services department at your chosen center to ask about telemedicine options and what records they need before your appointment.

Preparing for Your First Appointment

Being prepared helps you make the most of your consultation. Bring:

  • Complete medical records including pathology reports
  • All imaging (CT scans, PET scans, MRIs) on disc or via portal
  • List of current medications and dosages
  • Detailed work history including employers and job duties
  • Military service records (if applicable)
  • List of questions (write them down)
  • A family member or friend for support and note-taking