Ganetespib With Platinum, in Patients With Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rapidly lethal cancer arising from the parietal pleural mesothelium, and is associated with exposure to asbestos. Once a rare disease, it is increasing in incidence in the UK and is presently more common than cervical cancer. MPM is characterized by local invasion of adjacent structures including the chest wall, mediastinum, diaphragm and pericardium resulting in progressive shortness of breath. Median survival with best supportive care alone is approximately 6-9 months and most cases of mesothelioma present in the advanced setting. Therefore this trial will be looking at whether a new drug, Ganetespib has any improvement on survival for these types of patients.