Angiogenesis

Angiogenesis is the growth of new blood vessels from existing ones. Tumors, including mesothelioma, depend on angiogenesis to build their own blood supply so they can grow beyond a tiny size and spread. Because of this, blocking new blood-vessel growth has become a target for cancer treatment.

Origin

From the Greek angeion, meaning "vessel," and genesis, "creation." The idea that tumors recruit their own blood supply was advanced by researcher Judah Folkman beginning in the early 1970s.

Significance in Asbestos Context

Angiogenesis matters to mesothelioma patients because it drives tumor growth and offers a treatment target. Drugs that interfere with blood-vessel signals, such as bevacizumab, which blocks a protein called VEGF, have been added to chemotherapy in some mesothelioma regimens. Patients may want to ask their oncologist whether anti-angiogenic therapy or a clinical trial fits their case. Because these treatments and their outcomes appear in medical records, they can also document the course and cost of the illness.

Example Sentence

The oncologist added an anti-angiogenesis drug to the chemotherapy in hopes of cutting off the mesothelioma's blood supply.

Related Terms

VEGF, Bevacizumab, Mesothelioma, Chemotherapy, Metastasis, Clinical Trial

Notes

• Ask your oncologist whether an anti-angiogenic drug such as bevacizumab, or a clinical trial testing one, is appropriate for your case.
• Keep records of every treatment and its cost; they document the illness and support damages in a claim.
• Report new symptoms during anti-angiogenic therapy promptly, since these drugs can affect blood pressure, bleeding, and wound healing.