PT - JOURNAL ARTICLE AU - Bibby, Anna C. AU - Tsim, Selina AU - Kanellakis, Nikolaos AU - Ball, Hannah AU - Talbot, Denis C. AU - Blyth, Kevin G. AU - Maskell, Nick A. AU - Psallidas, Ioannis TI - Malignant pleural mesothelioma: an update on investigation, diagnosis and treatment AID - 10.1183/16000617.0063-2016 DP - 2016 Dec 01 TA - European Respiratory Review PG - 472--486 VI - 25 IP - 142 4099 - http://err.ersjournals.com/content/25/142/472.short 4100 - http://err.ersjournals.com/content/25/142/472.full SO - EUROPEAN RESPIRATORY REVIEW2016 Dec 01; 25 AB - Malignant pleural mesothelioma is an aggressive malignancy of the pleural surface, predominantly caused by prior asbestos exposure. There is a global epidemic of malignant pleural mesothelioma underway, and incidence rates are predicted to peak in the next few years.This article summarises the epidemiology and pathogenesis of malignant pleural mesothelioma, before describing some key factors in the patient experience and outlining common symptoms. Diagnostic approaches are reviewed, including imaging techniques and the role of various biomarkers. Treatment options are summarised, including the importance of palliative care and methods of controlling pleural effusions. The evidence for chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery is reviewed, both in the palliative setting and in the context of trimodality treatment. An algorithm for managing malignant pleural effusion in malignant pleural mesothelioma patients is presented. Finally new treatment developments and novel therapeutic approaches are summarised.This article on mesothelioma describes pathogenesis, symptoms, diagnostic approaches and treatment options http://ow.ly/cjkb305aQGz