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Primary malignant mesothelioma of the peritoneum
Petar Svorcan1, Jelena Djordjevic, Nadezda Colic
1Department of Gastroenterology, Zvezdara University Hospital, Beograd, Serbia and Montenegro.svorcanp@EUnet.yu.
Abstract:
Mesothelioma of the peritoneum represents an extremely rare malignancy of the abdominal cavity and forms about 10% of all mesotheliomas. The annual incidence of the tumor in the general population is 1-2 cases per million. The causative relationship between chronic exposure to asbestos and mesothelioma has been proved. Since the symptomatology of the tumor is usually not specific, the diagnosis is made in the advanced stages of the disease, which is the limiting factor for therapy. Most patients die within 2 years from the diagnosis. We report a case of a primary malignant mesothelioma of the peritoneum in a 60-year old male, who presented with three-month history of ascites, weakness and appetite loss. The patient gave the information that he had been living for 15 years in a loft which was insulated by material consisting of asbestos. After investigations, primary neoplasm of the peritoneum was suspected, which was confirmed by the biopsy and the morphopathological examination. Due to the advanced spread of the tumor and the poor general condition, the patient underwent palliative therapy. The patient died 3 months after the diagnosis. Epidemiological data for chronic exposure to asbestos have to be considered as the etiological factor of disease in this particular patient.
Insights
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare cancer linked to asbestos exposure. This case highlights delayed diagnosis due to non-specific symptoms, emphasizing the need to consider asbestos history in affected individuals.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Environmental Medicine
Background:
- Mesothelioma of the peritoneum is an exceptionally rare abdominal malignancy, accounting for approximately 10% of all mesothelioma cases.
- The incidence is low, with 1-2 cases per million annually in the general population.
- A proven causal link exists between chronic asbestos exposure and mesothelioma development.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old male presented with a three-month history of ascites, weakness, and appetite loss.
- The patient reported living in an asbestos-insulated loft for 15 years.
- Investigations led to suspicion of primary peritoneal neoplasm, later confirmed by biopsy.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with primary malignant mesothelioma of the peritoneum.
- The tumor was advanced at diagnosis, and the patient's general condition was poor.
- The patient received palliative therapy and died three months post-diagnosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical role of asbestos exposure history in diagnosing peritoneal mesothelioma.
- Non-specific symptomatology often leads to late diagnosis, limiting therapeutic options.
- Early consideration of environmental factors like asbestos is crucial for timely intervention in suspected mesothelioma cases.