Update on pleural mesothelioma.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Pleural mesothelioma remains a universally lethal cancer with a rising global burden. This underscores the need for pulmonologists to stay abreast of evolving diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Recent findings: This review highlights paradigm shifts in nomenclature, including recognition of mesothelioma in-situ as a pre-invasive entity made possible by molecular markers defining malignant transformation. High impact randomized clinical trials have provided evidence that radical surgical resection, via extrapleural pneumonectomy or extended pleurectomy/decortication, negatively impacts survival and quality of life. Dual immunotherapy (of nivolumab and ipilimumab) is now incorporated as first-line systemic therapy especially for sarcomatoid-containing mesothelioma. Addition of pembrolizumab to standard pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy provides modest benefits. Emerging approaches are highlighted and encompass molecularly targeted, metabolic, intrapleural, and artificial intelligence (AI)-based strategies.

Summary: These developments underline a move away from aggressive surgical cytoreduction towards more biologically-informed, less invasive management and earlier detection in high-risk cohorts, while embracing biomarker-driven systemic and intrapleural therapies to optimize outcomes. Future research should prioritize mesothelioma-specific trials to define the role and sequencing of perioperative immunotherapy and novel agents. AI tools may assist disease diagnosis, prognostication, and treatment selection.