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Concurrent alcoholic cirrhosis and malignant peritoneal mesothelioma in a patient: A case report
Liang Liu1, Xiao-Yan Zhu1, Wen-Jie Zong1
1Department of Gastroenterology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250011, Shandong Province, China.
Background:
Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) originates from the mesothelial and subcutaneous cells of the abdominal cavity. Its diagnose is difficult due to its nonspecific and vague symptoms, and it should be differentiated from alcoholic cirrhosis and liver and pancreatic cancers. Misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis can easily occur when MPM presents with other diseases. To the best of our knowledge, no case of MPM concurrent with alcoholic cirrhosis has been reported.
Case Summary:
A 63-year-old man presented to our hospital with abdominal distension for 20days. He had a history of alcohol consumption for nearly 30 years and no history of special drug use or toxic exposure. After treatment for alcoholic cirrhosis in a community hospital, his symptoms did not improve significantly. The patient underwent exploratory laparotomy and surgical resection. Pathologic examination showed an epithelioid MPM. He was treated with chemotherapy and intraperitoneal hyperthermic perfusion after surgery. Currently, he is in a stable condition and tumor recurrence has not occurred.
Conclusion:
Misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis of MPM can easily occur because of its insidious onset. Therefore, there is a need to understand. MPM in clinical practice, make the correct diagnosis, and provide timely and effective treatment.
Insights
This case report details a rare instance of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) co-occurring with alcoholic cirrhosis. Early diagnosis of MPM is crucial due to its vague symptoms and potential for misdiagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare cancer originating in the abdominal cavity.
- MPM diagnosis is challenging due to nonspecific symptoms, often mimicking liver diseases like alcoholic cirrhosis.
Observation:
- A 63-year-old male with a history of heavy alcohol consumption presented with persistent abdominal distension.
- Initial treatment for presumed alcoholic cirrhosis was ineffective, prompting further investigation.
Findings:
- Exploratory laparotomy revealed epithelioid malignant peritoneal mesothelioma.
- Pathological examination confirmed MPM coexisting with alcoholic cirrhosis, a previously unreported combination.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering MPM in patients with vague abdominal symptoms, especially those with risk factors for liver disease.
- Timely and accurate diagnosis of MPM is essential for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.
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