Malignant pleural mesothelioma: US-guided histologic core-needle biopsy

PURPOSE: To assess the clinical use of ultrasonographically (US) guided core-needle biopsy, performed with a one-hand automatic sampling technique, in the diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The authors reviewed the findings in 70 patients with a tentative diagnosis of MPM who underwent US-guided core-needle biopsy at our institution during the past 10 years. RESULTS: Fifty-two of the 70 patients who underwent automatic high-speed core-needle biopsy at our institution had MPM; 18 had other disorders. The correct diagnosis was made in 56 patients. Twelve of 14 inadequate biopsy specimens were false-negative for MPM. There were no false-positive biopsy results. In the detection of MPM, US-guided core-needle biopsy had a sensitivity of 77%, specificity of 88%, accuracy of 80% positive predictive value of 100%, and negative predictive value of 57%. There were no serious complications. CONCLUSION: US-guided core-needle biopsy is highly effective in the diagnosis of MPM. Owing to its simplicity, low cost, and few side effects, it could be the biopsy method of choice for detection of this condition.