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Primary pericardial mesothelioma: a case report
Y Kobayashi1, R Murakami, J Ogura
1Department of Radiology, Tama-Nagayama Hospital, Nippon Medical School, 1-7-1 Nagayama, Tama-shi, Tokyo 206-8512, Japan. kobachan@nms.ac.jp
Abstract:
The imaging features of primary pericardial mesothelioma have rarely been described. Herein we present a case report of its diagnostic-pathologic features. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed an irregularly enhanced mass occupying the entire pericardial space and surrounding the superior vena cava. At autopsy, the tumor was found to fill the pericardial space completely, and to extend to the superior vena cava through the superior pericardial sinus. The CT features of the tumor were correlated well with those revealed at autopsy, and provided satisfactory information regarding the presence and the extension of the tumor.
Insights
Primary pericardial mesothelioma imaging is rarely described. This case report details diagnostic-pathologic features, correlating chest computed tomography (CT) findings with autopsy results for tumor presence and extension.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Pathology
- Thoracic Oncology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Primary pericardial mesothelioma is a rare malignancy.
- Diagnostic imaging features are not well-established.
- Accurate diagnosis relies on integrating imaging and pathology.
Observation:
- A case of primary pericardial mesothelioma is presented.
- Chest computed tomography (CT) showed an irregularly enhanced mass filling the pericardial space.
- The tumor encased the superior vena cava.
Findings:
- Autopsy confirmed the tumor occupied the entire pericardial space.
- Tumor extension into the superior vena cava via the superior pericardial sinus was observed.
- CT findings closely correlated with autopsy observations.
Implications:
- This case highlights the utility of CT in diagnosing pericardial mesothelioma.
- Understanding imaging-pathologic correlations is crucial for accurate staging.
- Further case studies can improve recognition of this rare tumor.