In their search for an effective mesothelioma treatment, researchers at an Australian hospital tested Imiquimod, a cream applied to the skin of skin cancer sufferers.

In the tests, the Imiquimod was applied to laboratory mice who had advanced meso tumors, together with antiCD40, an established cancer medication. Approximately 50% of the mice receiving the combination therapy were 'cured.'

Imiquimod, marketed under the names of Aldara or Beselna, was approved by the FDA in 1997 and has long been used to treat certain types of skin cancer.

During treatment there are a number of unpleasant side effects, including blisters and blackened skin, however, these usually resolve on completion of treatment.

AntiCD40 is an anti-cancer drug that, when injected into lab mice, has been shown to reduce cancerous tumors.

Professor Steve Broomfield of the University of WA in Australia stated that the Imiquimod and antiCD40 duo could, at the very least, 'double survival times' for mesothelioma patients.

Perth Now