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Orthotopic Implantation and Peripheral Immune Cell Monitoring in the II-45 Syngeneic Rat Mesothelioma Model
Published on: October 2, 2015
Incidental localized (solitary) mediastinal malignant mesothelioma
E Erdogan1, F B Demirkazik, M Gulsun
1Department of Radiology, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, 06100 Ankara, Turkey.
Abstract:
Primary mediastinal mesotheliomas are rare tumours. The mesothelial lining cells of the the pericardium are suggested as the most probable cells of origin. Most of these tumours appear either as a diffuse or nodular thickening of the pericardium that encase and even invade the heart. Localized mediastinal mesotheliomas are distinctly uncommon. We report the imaging findings of a solitary malignant mediastinal mesothelioma that presented mainly as a cystic anterior mediastinal mass. On chest radiography, the tumour appeared as a right paramediastinal soft tissue mass located adjacent to the right middle and lower lobes. On CT, a large, well-circumscribed, right anterior mediastinal mass with a central zone of fluid attenuation was observed. This mass had a thin, smooth wall of uniform thickness as well as a small component that demonstrated soft tissue attenuation. There was no plane of separation between the tumour and aorta/superior vena cava. At surgery the tumour could be dissected easily free from the pericardium and great vessels and it was removed totally. Histopathological examination of the tumour revealed a malignant epitheloid mesothelioma.
Insights
Primary mediastinal mesotheliomas, rare cancers originating from pericardial cells, typically present as diffuse thickening. This case highlights a solitary, cystic mediastinal mesothelioma, a distinct presentation.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Primary mediastinal mesotheliomas are rare neoplasms originating from the pericardium.
- They commonly manifest as diffuse or nodular pericardial thickening, often encasing the heart.
Observation:
- This report details a solitary malignant mediastinal mesothelioma presenting as a cystic anterior mediastinal mass.
- Imaging revealed a right paramediastinal soft tissue mass on chest radiography and a well-circumscribed cystic mass on CT.
Findings:
- CT demonstrated a large, cystic anterior mediastinal mass with a soft tissue component and no clear separation from adjacent great vessels.
- Surgical removal was complete, and histopathology confirmed a malignant epithelioid mesothelioma.
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of rare mediastinal mesothelioma presentations.
- It underscores the importance of detailed imaging in diagnosing uncommon thoracic neoplasms.
