There is insufficient evidence to support a screening programme for malignant pleural mesothelioma

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive cancer of the pleura associated with previous asbestos exposure. Patients typically present late in the disease course. At present there is no curative treatment and the median survival is low. In this article, we explore whether MPM meets accepted criteria for initiation of a screening programme and we review potential screening strategies. These include blood-based biomarkers and radiological imaging. We conclude that, at present, there is insufficient evidence to support a screening programme for MPM.