An experimental model for treatment of mesothelioma.

A peritoneal mesothelioma was induced by asbestos in a hamster, and was established in serial transfer to new hosts by injection of peritoneal effusion containing tumor cells. Biologically and histopathologically, this tumor is similar to its human counterpart. Three drugs were tested for efficacy using this model. Survival time was used as the only parameter of response and was compared with survival time of controls. Survival time increased 25 to 50% after short regimens of doxorubicin or 5-fluorouracil. Survival time increased up to 308% after long-continued treatments with cyclophosphamide. No cures were achieved.