Mesothelioma is an extremely rare disease. Given the complexities associated with the diagnosis and treatment of Mesothelioma, it is essential to find a doctor that has the requisite knowledge and experience to provide the best medical care and attention.

At the Deaton Law Firm, we focus on representing victims of Mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. Our lawyers are familiar with the doctors, specialists, and medical centers that are known for providing expert and aggressive care for those suffering from Mesothelioma.

Types of Doctors Treating Mesothelioma

Upon diagnosis, it is crucial to consult a physician who is familiar with the treatment of Mesothelioma. In addition to consulting with a general practitioner, you may also receive care and attention from:

• a radiologist (a doctor who administers X-rays, MRIs, CTs, and radiation therapy),
• a thoracic surgeon (chest surgeon),
• a pulmonary therapist (lung specialist)
• an oncologist (cancer doctor).

Questions To Ask Your Treating Doctor

At the Deaton Law Firm, we are acutely aware that an initial diagnosis of Mesothelioma can be quite overwhelming. Many of those diagnosed with Mesothelioma are unaware of the general prognosis. Many do not know what treatment options may be available. Many do not know what lifestyle changesshould be done to assist in the treatment of Mesothelioma. Most significantly, many victims of Mesothelioma do not know the important questions to ask treating doctors.

The Deaton Law Firm seeks to equip you and your family with the necessary medical guidance. Below is a list of important questions for you to address with treating doctors:

1. How was Mesothelioma diagnosed?

• Many of those being tested for Mesothelioma have had one or more pleural effusions (draining of fluid in or around the pleural or abdominal cavity). Testing of this fluid typically results in a false negative (negative for the diagnosis of Mesothelioma). Should this fluid continue to build, however, a biopsy will be taken from the surrounding tissue and tested for malignant mesothelial cells.

2. Was the biopsy tested for Mesothelioma? Was the biopsy sent to a reputable facility specializing in the care and treatment of Mesothelioma?

• The biopsy will be “stained” (special test used to diagnose Mesothelioma); the result of the “staining” will confirm or exclude Mesothelioma as the cause of illness.
• Always request a copy of all medical reports, including the biopsy results.

3. Where is the Mesothelioma located and how progressive is the disease?

• Mesothelioma can be located in either the pleural (lung) or peritoneal (abdominal) area.
• Mesothelioma is, typically, staged from 1 to 4. Stage 1 denotes early onset of Mesothelioma, whereas Stage 4 denotes an advanced stage of the illness.

4. Has your treating doctor cared for other victims of Mesothelioma?

5. What treatment options are available and what are the side-effects associated with each treatment? How successful have other patients been using the available treatments?

Leading Medical Centers/Medical Doctors

Various Mesothelioma doctors are located nationwide, including the medical centers listed below.

Sloane Kettering Cancer Center Manhattan

• New Jersey
• Long Island
• Westchester

University of Chicago Medical

Mayo Clinic
Scottsdale/Phoenix, Arizona
Jacksonville, Florida
Rochester, Minnesota

Sugarbaker Oncology Associates, P.C.

110 Irving St., NW
Washington, DC 20010
Phone: 202-877-3908Moffit Cancer Center
Tampa, Florida

Leading Doctors

Dr. David Rice
(713) 745-4530
E-mail: dricemdanderson.org

Dr. David Sugarbaker

Brigham & Womens Hospital, 75 Francis Street
Boston, MA 02115
Phone: 617-732-6824