Incidental finding of multiple well-differentiated papillary mesotheliomas in peritoneum

APMIS. 2016 Apr;124(4):333-4. doi: 10.1111/apm.12503. Epub 2016 Jan 14.

Abstract

We present a case of multiple well-differentiated papillary mesotheliomas (WDPM) in the peritoneum found incidentally in a 63-year-old man with urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. When multiple tumors are seen, malignant mesothelioma should be excluded by histopathological examination as this may have a similar focal appearance to WDPM. True stromal invasion is by far the most reliable criterion of mesothelial malignancy. In doubtful cases, a conservative diagnostic approach has been recommended. Compared to malignant mesotheliomas, WDPMs are rare and have a relatively indolent clinical course with a good prognosis. Great care is needed when diagnosing mesothelial proliferations, given the crucial nature of a benign vs malignant diagnosis. No standardized treatment has yet been established.

Keywords: Mesothelioma; peritoneum.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma / pathology
  • Carcinoma / surgery
  • Humans
  • Incidental Findings
  • Male
  • Mesothelioma / diagnosis*
  • Mesothelioma / pathology
  • Mesothelioma / surgery
  • Middle Aged
  • Peritoneal Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Peritoneal Neoplasms / pathology
  • Peritoneal Neoplasms / surgery
  • Peritoneum / pathology*
  • Peritoneum / surgery
  • Urinary Bladder / pathology
  • Urinary Bladder / surgery
  • Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / pathology
  • Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / surgery