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Updated: Jun 21, 2026
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Generation and Expansion of Primary, Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Tumor Lines
Published on: April 21, 2022
Malignant pleural mesothelioma initially diagnosed on cervical lymph node biopsy
Sho Ogata1, Sadayuki Hiroi, Akira Tominaga
1Department of Pathology, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan. sogata@ndmc.ac.jp
Pathology International
|July 25, 2009
Summary
A rare case of malignant pleural mesothelioma was diagnosed via a cervical lymph node biopsy. Positron emission tomography/CT imaging proved crucial for confirming the mesothelioma diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
- Radiology
Background:
- Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a rare cancer, often associated with asbestos exposure.
- Diagnosis can be challenging, especially in cases without a clear exposure history.
Observation:
- A 58-year-old man presented with unexplained pleural effusion and a palpable neck mass.
- Cervical lymph node biopsy revealed metastatic malignant mesothelioma, despite no apparent asbestos exposure.
- Recurrent pleural effusions were managed with diuretics.
Findings:
- F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) confirmed the diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma.
- Cervical lymph node metastasis is a rare but important presentation of malignant pleural mesothelioma.
Implications:
- Cervical lymph node metastasis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of neck masses, particularly in patients with unexplained pleural effusion.
- FDG-PET/CT is a valuable tool for diagnosing malignant pleural mesothelioma, aiding in staging and treatment planning.
