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Updated: Jul 6, 2026
05:07
Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
Published on: July 21, 2023
Localized malignant mesenteric mesothelioma causing small bowel obstruction
Kishio Kuroda1, Shin Ishizawa, Takahiko Kudo
1Laboratory of Pathology, Toyama University Hospital, Toyama, Japan.
Pathology International
|March 8, 2008
Summary
This case report details a rare instance of malignant mesothelioma localized within the mesentery, causing small bowel obstruction. Early diagnosis via endoscopic biopsy and subsequent treatment led to no relapse in an 8-month follow-up.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
Background:
- Malignant mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive neoplasm arising from serous membranes.
- Peritoneal mesothelioma is a less common subtype, and intra-abdominal presentations are infrequent.
- Localized mesenteric masses can mimic other gastrointestinal pathologies.
Observation:
- A unique case of malignant mesothelioma presenting as a localized mesenteric mass is described.
- The mass caused focal luminal obstruction of the small intestine.
- Diagnosis was confirmed through repeat double balloon endoscopic biopsy.
Findings:
- The patient underwent partial small intestine resection with mesenteric tumor removal.
- Adjuvant chemotherapy was administered post-operatively.
- Radiological follow-up at 8 months showed no evidence of disease recurrence.
Implications:
- This is the first reported case of localized malignant mesothelioma originating within the mesentery.
- Mesothelioma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of small bowel obstruction with an unknown primary neoplasm.
- Highlights the importance of thorough diagnostic workup for unexplained gastrointestinal obstructions.
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