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Metastatic malignant mesothelioma presenting as colonic polyps
A V Masangkay1, M Susin, R Baker
1Department of Laboratories, North Shore University Hospital-New York University School of Medicine, Manhasset 11030, USA.
Human Pathology
|August 1, 1997
Summary
Malignant pleural mesothelioma recurred and spread to the peritoneum, with metastases found in colonic polyps. This rare occurrence highlights the need for thorough diagnostic evaluation, including immunohistochemistry, for accurate mesothelioma diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
Background:
- Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer.
- Standard treatments include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
- Long-term surveillance with imaging is common for patients.
Observation:
- A patient with a history of malignant pleural mesothelioma developed recurrence and peritoneal involvement.
- Incidental colonic polyps were discovered during a routine examination.
- Two polyps showed metastatic mesothelioma, mimicking adenocarcinoma.
Findings:
- Metastatic malignant mesothelioma was identified in the lamina propria of colonic polyps.
- The histological appearance of the metastases caused diagnostic challenges.
- No similar cases of pleural mesothelioma metastasizing to colonic polyps were found in the literature.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering metastatic disease in unexpected locations.
- Clinical history and advanced diagnostic techniques like immunohistochemistry are crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Further research may be needed to understand the mechanisms of mesothelioma metastasis to the colon.