When facing a rare and aggressive disease like mesothelioma, the experience and specialization of your doctor can make all the difference. General oncologists may offer basic care, but only a select group of physicians have dedicated their careers to researching and treating mesothelioma. These are the experts who stay ahead of evolving therapies, lead clinical trials, and offer personalized treatment strategies grounded in the latest science.
This guide highlights some of the top mesothelioma doctors in the country—specialists with proven results, national recognition, and deep experience helping patients like you. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking a second opinion, the right physician can expand your options and improve your outcome.
On this page:
Why It’s Important to See a Mesothelioma Specialist
Mesothelioma is not a common cancer. It requires a nuanced understanding of:
- Rare tumor behavior
- Long latency and exposure history
- Complex imaging and diagnostic methods
- Multimodal treatment options (surgery, chemo, immunotherapy, radiation)
- Emerging experimental therapies
Specialists also work closely with other experts—thoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists, palliative care providers—to coordinate comprehensive treatment plans.
Choosing a top doctor means gaining access to:
- The latest research and clinical trials
- Hospitals with mesothelioma centers of excellence
- Advanced surgical and supportive care options
- A personalized approach tailored to your diagnosis
What Makes a Doctor “Top” in This Field?
While there is no official certification for mesothelioma physicians, the best doctors tend to share these qualities:
- Extensive experience treating pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial mesothelioma
- Leadership roles at recognized cancer centers
- Publications and research in peer-reviewed journals
- Access to clinical trials or HIPEC procedures
- High patient satisfaction and long-term follow-up care
The doctors listed below are not ranked, but all are recognized leaders in the field.
Top Mesothelioma Doctors in the U.S.
David J. Sugarbaker, MD (In Memoriam)
Dr. Sugarbaker was a pioneer in pleural mesothelioma surgery and the creator of the extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) procedure. His legacy continues through the thoracic surgery and research programs he helped build.
Abraham Lebenthal, MD
A thoracic surgeon affiliated with Harvard Medical School, Dr. Lebenthal specializes in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgery for pleural mesothelioma. He sees patients through Brigham and Women’s / Dana‑Farber and the VA Boston Healthcare System.
Bio: Abraham Lebenthal, MD
Address:
75 Francis Street
Boston, MA 02115
Phone: 888‑889‑3325
Website: brighamandwomens.org, dana‑farber.org
Anne S. Tsao, MD
Thoracic medical oncologist directing the Mesothelioma Program with expertise in systemic therapy and clinical trials.
Bio: Anne S. Tsao, MD
Address:
1515 Holcombe Blvd
Houston, TX 77030
Phone: 877‑632‑6789
Website: mdanderson.org
Hedy L. Kindler, MD
National leader in mesothelioma therapeutics, including immunotherapy and second‑line treatments for recurrent disease.
Bio: Hedy L. Kindler, MD
Address:
5841 S Maryland Ave
Chicago, IL 60637
Phone: 855‑595‑5950
Website: uchicagomedicine.org
Raja M. Flores, MD
Thoracic surgeon known for lung‑sparing procedures in pleural mesothelioma within a multidisciplinary program.
Bio: Raja M. Flores, MD
Address:
1468 Madison Ave
New York, NY 10029
Phone: 866‑746‑9874
Website: mountsinai.org
James F. Pingpank, MD
Surgical oncologist specializing in peritoneal mesothelioma and HIPEC.
Bio: James F. Pingpank, MD
Address:
5200 Centre Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Phone: 800‑533‑7939
Website: upmc.com
Joseph S. Friedberg, MD
Thoracic surgeon noted for photodynamic therapy and advanced pleural mesothelioma surgery.
Bio: Joseph S. Friedberg, MD
Address:
22 S Greene Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 800‑888‑0555
Website: umgcc.org
How to Choose the Right Doctor for You
Selecting a mesothelioma doctor is a personal decision. Here are a few steps to help you make an informed choice:
- Verify experience with your mesothelioma type (pleural, peritoneal, etc.)
- Ask about surgical options and whether you’re a candidate
- Explore access to clinical trials or HIPEC if appropriate
- Review hospital ranking and reputation for mesothelioma treatment
- Ensure they work as part of a multidisciplinary team
For hospital-based care options, visit our page on Top Mesothelioma Cancer Centers.
Working With DuBose Law Firm to Access Care
We’ve spent over two decades guiding families through not only the legal process but also the medical maze that comes with a mesothelioma diagnosis. We help clients:
- Connect with national centers and trusted doctors
- Understand treatment options and referrals
- Coordinate timelines for treatment and legal action
- Access financial support to ease travel and lodging costs
Because at DuBose Law Firm, People Matter Here—and that means helping you build the strongest support system possible.
Need Help Finding a Specialist?
Our team can help you understand your options, identify top doctors near you, and take the next step toward the care you deserve. We offer free consultations to help patients and families make informed legal and medical decisions.
Looking for immediate answers to your questions?
Call 214-380-2134 or
Schedule a no-cost consultation today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of doctor treats mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is typically treated by a thoracic surgeon, oncologist, or surgical oncologist—but ideally one who specializes in mesothelioma and works within a multidisciplinary team at a cancer center.
Can I see a mesothelioma specialist if I live in a small city or rural area?
Yes. Many top doctors offer telemedicine consultations, and organizations (including our firm) help coordinate travel support and second opinions from leading centers.
What’s the difference between pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma specialists?
Pleural specialists focus on tumors in the lungs and chest lining, while peritoneal specialists treat tumors in the abdomen. Different procedures and chemotherapies apply.
Will seeing a specialist improve my prognosis?
In many cases, yes. Specialists offer access to cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and surgery that may not be available through general oncologists.