In the Spring, I had the honor of hearing Michaul Harbut, MD, MPH (co-director of the National Center for Vermiculite and Asbestos-Related Cancers at the Karmanos Cancer Institute and chief of the Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine Wayne State University) speak about a new imaging technology for use with patients suffering from mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.  The new radiography technology uses the Vitrea imaging software program which translates traditional CT scan images into 3D images.  This new system may aid medical providers and scientists in the diagnosing and treatment of asbestos-related conditions.

Dr. Harbut and his team were recently in the news for using this technology to determine a likely reason for chronic chest pain in some patients with asbestos-related diseases and cancers.  He reports they were able to diagnose and improve treatment decisions with this sophisticated approach.

This new approach could mean earlier detection of mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other asbestos-related diseases as well as increasing treatment options.  It’s an example of how research can improve the treatment and quality of life for patients suffering as a result of asbestos exposure and disease.  I look forward to hearing more about this new process and the implication for the mesothelioma community.

Read more about Dr. Harbut and the new imaging technology at the Karmanos Cancer Institute website.