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Cerebral metastases in malignant mesothelioma: case report and literature review
Eldon Mah1, Richard G Bittar, Gavin A Davis
1Department of Neurosurgery, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Vic. 3084, Australia.
Abstract:
Malignant mesothelioma is an uncommon tumour with an inevitably poor outcome. Statistics from the US National Cancer Institute reveal a steady rise in its incidence over the past 25 years. It typically arises from the pleura, but can also originate in the peritoneum, pericardium, genital tracts and tunica vaginalis. Previously considered a local disease with low incidence of metastasis, there is increasing evidence suggesting otherwise. Reported cases of cerebral metastasis are rare and the vast majority are postmortem findings. This report documents a patient with symptomatic cerebral metastasis from malignant mesothelioma, who underwent craniotomy and excision of two cerebral lesions. It is one of a handful of case reports in the literature in which histological confirmation has been obtained ante-mortem and where surgical treatment of the intracranial mesothelioma was undertaken.
Insights
Malignant mesothelioma, a rare cancer, is increasingly spreading to the brain. This case report details surgical removal of brain tumors from malignant mesothelioma, confirmed before death.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neurology
- Pathology
Background:
- Malignant mesothelioma is a rare cancer with a poor prognosis.
- Its incidence has been rising, and it can metastasize beyond its primary site.
- Cerebral metastasis from mesothelioma is exceptionally rare, typically found postmortem.
Observation:
- This report details a patient with symptomatic cerebral metastasis from malignant mesothelioma.
- The patient underwent craniotomy for surgical excision of two intracranial lesions.
- Histological confirmation of mesothelioma in the brain was obtained ante-mortem.
Findings:
- Symptomatic cerebral metastasis from malignant mesothelioma can occur.
- Surgical intervention (craniotomy and excision) is a feasible treatment option for intracranial mesothelioma.
- Ante-mortem histological confirmation and surgical treatment of intracranial mesothelioma are rare.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for malignant mesothelioma to metastasize to the brain.
- Surgical management may be considered for symptomatic intracranial mesothelioma.
- Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and outcomes of mesothelioma brain metastasis.
