SU5416 in Treating Patients With Malignant Mesothelioma

DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: * Histologically or cytologically proven malignant mesothelioma (epithelial, sarcomatoid, or mixed subtype) that is not amenable to surgery or radiotherapy * Measurable disease * At least 20 mm by conventional techniques or at least 10 mm by spiral CT scan * Pleural effusions and ascites are not considered measurable lesions * Only site of measurable disease must not be located within prior radiotherapy port * Lesion must be accessible for biopsy * History of previously treated CNS metastasis allowed if: * Neurologically stable * No requirement for IV or oral steroids or IV anticonvulsants * No active or residual disease by brain CT or MRI scan * Patients with neurologic signs or symptoms suggestive of CNS metastasis must have a negative brain CT or MRI scan PATIENT CHARACTERISTICS: * Age: 18 and over * Performance status: WHO 0-2 * Life expectancy: At least 12 weeks * WBC at least 3,000/mm3 * Platelet count at least 75,000/mm3 * Bilirubin no greater than 1.5 mg/dL * SGOT and SGPT no greater than 2.5 times upper limit of normal * Creatinine no greater than 1.5 mg/dL OR creatinine clearance at least 60 mL/min * No uncompensated coronary artery disease on electrocardiogram or physical examination * No history of myocardial infarction or severe/unstable angina within the past 6 months * No severe peripheral vascular disease associated with diabetes mellitus * No deep vein or arterial thrombosis within the past 3 months * No pulmonary embolism w…