Editing Survival Statistics (section)

== What Emerging Biomarkers Predict Survival? ==

Advanced biomarker testing is transforming mesothelioma prognosis from population-based statistics to individualized predictions.<ref>[https://mesothelioma.net/mesothelioma-diagnosis/ Mesothelioma Diagnosis], Mesothelioma.net</ref>

'''Liquid Biopsy (ctDNA):''' A landmark 2025 Nature Medicine study validated circulating tumor DNA monitoring as a powerful prognostic tool.<ref>[https://dandell.com/mesothelioma/mesothelioma-diagnosis/mesothelioma-cancer-guide/ Mesothelioma Cancer Guide], Danziger & De Llano</ref> Patients achieving undetectable ctDNA at cycle 3 day 1 demonstrated median progression-free survival of 19.84 months versus just 1.41 months for those with detectable ctDNA. Those achieving ≥95% ctDNA reduction showed median PFS of 23.26 months versus 1.68 months—a more than 13-fold difference.

'''BAP1 Mutation Status:''' Present in over 50% of mesotheliomas, BAP1 mutation paradoxically predicts better survival (median 5 years versus less than 1 year without mutation) while also indicating potential sensitivity to targeted therapies like tazemetostat.<ref>[https://www.mesotheliomalawyercenter.org/mesothelioma-cancer/diagnosis/ Mesothelioma Diagnosis], Mesothelioma Lawyer Center</ref>

'''Ki-67 Proliferation Index:''' For peritoneal mesothelioma, Ki-67 ≤9% predicts median survival of 86.6 months versus 10.3 months for Ki-67 >9%—an 8-fold difference.<ref>[https://mesothelioma.net/mesothelioma-facts/ Mesothelioma Information], Mesothelioma.net</ref>

'''Methylation-Based Classification:''' cfMeDIP-seq liquid biopsy can distinguish epithelioid from sarcomatoid histology with 98% accuracy and identify prognostic methylation signatures non-invasively.<ref>[https://mesotheliomaattorney.com/mesothelioma/cancer/ Mesothelioma Cancer Explained], Mesothelioma Attorney</ref>

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| style="padding:15px; color:#856404;" | '''⚠ Important Legal Consideration''' Improved survival through newer treatments can extend the time available for pursuing legal compensation, but statutes of limitations still apply. Consulting with experienced mesothelioma attorneys early ensures families preserve all legal options.
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