Treatment for Pericardial Mesothelioma
Managing a Rare and Aggressive Cancer of the Heart Lining
Pericardial mesothelioma is one of the rarest and most challenging forms of mesothelioma to treat. Because it forms in the thin sac surrounding the heart, treatment options are limited—but not impossible. While a cure may not be realistic in most cases, many patients benefit from treatments that relieve symptoms, improve heart function, and extend quality of life.
This guide explains the most common treatment strategies for pericardial mesothelioma, including surgery, chemotherapy, palliative care, and emerging therapies.
Challenges in Treating Pericardial Mesothelioma
Delicate location: The heart is extremely sensitive to surgical or radiation damage
Late diagnosis: Most patients aren’t diagnosed until the disease is advanced
Aggressive growth: Tumors often spread quickly or cause complications like fluid buildup
Despite these challenges, several treatment options are available to manage symptoms and slow progression.
Main Treatment Options
🩺 1. Surgery
Surgical options depend on tumor size, location, and the patient’s overall health.
Pericardiectomy:
Removes part or all of the pericardium
Relieves pressure on the heart caused by fluid or tumor growth
Can improve breathing and chest pain
Tumor Debulking:
Attempts to remove as much tumor as safely possible
Rarely curative, but may reduce symptoms and heart strain
Surgery near the heart carries risks, so it's often used for palliative purposes—to improve comfort, not to cure.
💉 2. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is often used to control tumor growth and relieve pressure on the heart.
Most common drugs: Pemetrexed + Cisplatin
Goal: Slow progression and extend survival
Alternatives: Carboplatin or Gemcitabine may be used in certain patients
While not a cure, chemo can shrink tumors or stabilize disease in select cases.
🔬 3. Radiation Therapy
Radiation is rarely used because of the heart’s sensitivity, but in some cases it may be considered to:
Shrink localized tumors
Reduce pain or inflammation
Control bleeding or fluid buildup
Advanced radiation techniques like IMRT (intensity-modulated radiation therapy) help minimize damage to healthy tissue.
Supportive and Palliative Treatment
For many patients, palliative care becomes the primary focus—especially if surgery or chemotherapy aren’t options.
Common Palliative Options:
Pericardiocentesis: A procedure to drain fluid and relieve pressure on the heart
Pain management: Medications tailored to control chest discomfort
Breathing support: Oxygen therapy or drainage to ease dyspnea
Counseling: Emotional and psychological support for patients and families
Palliative care is not giving up—it’s a proactive way to improve quality of life.
Emerging Therapies and Clinical Trials
Research is ongoing to find new treatments for pericardial mesothelioma, including:
Immunotherapy:
Checkpoint inhibitors like Nivolumab (Opdivo) and Ipilimumab (Yervoy) are being studied
May be used when chemo or surgery aren’t options
Gene Therapy & Targeted Treatments:
Early-stage research is exploring genetic interventions and targeted drug delivery
Not yet widely available, but clinical trials may offer access
The Importance of Specialized Care
Because pericardial mesothelioma is so rare, it’s essential to be treated by doctors with experience in mesothelioma or rare thoracic cancers.
Top cancer centers and mesothelioma clinics may offer more advanced options
Multidisciplinary teams can coordinate surgery, oncology, cardiology, and palliative care
Financial Support for Treatment
Advanced care can be expensive. Legal compensation from asbestos trust funds, lawsuits, or veterans' benefits can help cover:
Surgical and hospital costs
Travel for specialty care
In-home support and medical equipment
Long-term monitoring
Learn more: Legal Help for Mesothelioma Patients →
Get Help Exploring Your Treatment Options
We’ve helped patients with pericardial mesothelioma connect with top specialists and access financial support to cover their care.
📞 Call 833-4-ASBESTOS
Or schedule your free consultation today.