Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 29, 2026

Culture and Imaging of Ex Vivo Organotypic Pseudomyxoma Peritonei Tumor Slices from Resected Human Tumor Specimens
Published on: December 9, 2022
[Well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma--a rare neoplasm of the peritoneum]
Zbigniew Biesiada1, Kazimierz Rembiasz
1II Katedra Chirurgii Ogólnej Collegium Medicum Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego, 31-501 Kraków, ul. Kopernika 21.
Abstract:
Well differentiated papillary mesothelioma (WDPM) is a very uncommon neoplasm of peritoneum. Most frequently it appears like little numerous nodules on peritoneal surface, omentum or mesentery. WDPM is characterized by indolent course and is diagnosed in most cases incidentally during operations for other reasons. Sometimes differentiation between WDPM and other mesothelial lesions may be difficult. In the described case a 22 year old female, cystic peritoneal lesions were first recognized histological as WDPM. In verification after two months, they were proved to be cystic mesotheliosis. WDPM may cause adhesions followed by torsion or strangulation. In the second reported case a 24 year old male, WDPM provokes torsion of the omentum. Twelve months after operation and diagnosis this patient is symptom free.
Insights
Well differentiated papillary mesothelioma (WDPM) is a rare peritoneal neoplasm. This study highlights diagnostic challenges and potential complications like omental torsion in young adults.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Well differentiated papillary mesothelioma (WDPM) is an exceptionally rare neoplasm affecting the peritoneum.
- It typically presents as multiple small nodules on peritoneal surfaces, omentum, or mesentery.
- WDPM often exhibits an indolent clinical course, frequently discovered incidentally during surgery.
Observation:
- A case involving a 22-year-old female with cystic peritoneal lesions initially diagnosed as WDPM, later reclassified as cystic mesotheliosis upon verification.
- A second case detailing a 24-year-old male where WDPM led to omental torsion.
Findings:
- Diagnostic differentiation between WDPM and other mesothelial lesions can be challenging.
- WDPM can lead to complications such as adhesions, torsion, and strangulation.
- The patient with WDPM-induced omental torsion remained symptom-free 12 months post-operation.
Implications:
- Accurate histological differentiation is crucial for appropriate patient management.
- Understanding potential complications like torsion is important for surgical planning.
- WDPM, despite its rarity, requires careful consideration due to its potential for complications.
Related Concept Videos
Pleural Disorders: Types and Brief Description
Peritoneum
Anatomy of the Peritoneum
The peritoneum is divided into two layers: the parietal peritoneum and the visceral...
Classification of Epithelial Tissues: Simple Epithelium
Because of the thinness of the cells, simple squamous epithelium is present where the rapid passage of chemical compounds is observed. For example, the endothelium that lines the capillaries and vessels...
Tissue Membranes
Connective Tissue Membranes
The connective tissue membrane is formed solely from connective tissue. These membranes encapsulate organs, such as the kidneys, and line our movable joints. A synovial membrane is...
Metastasis
Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition
The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition or EMT is a developmental process commonly observed in wound healing, embryogenesis, and cancer metastasis. EMT is induced by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) or receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) ligands, which further...
Esophagus
The movement of edibles from the pharynx into the esophagus is facilitated by the upper esophageal sphincter, which is formed primarily by the...

