Malignant Mesothelioma: Clinical, Pathological and Radiological Findings

Aim: Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a tumor of locally invasive character and of fatal course, frequently arising following asbest exposure. In the present study we attempted to retrospectively evaluate the clinical, pathological, and radiological findings of 27 cases diagnosed with MPM. Material and Method: 27 cases diagnosed with MPM in our medical facility have been included into the study, 14 females, and 13 males. Of the cases, 4 have been diagnosed based on transthoracic pleural biopsy, and 23 - using surgical methods (VYTC, thoracotomy). Result: Radiological evaluation revealed pleural thickening in 23 (85.2%), pleural effusion in 20 (74.1%), volume loss in 15 (55.6%), pleural nodulation in 14 (51.9%), mediastinal shift in 4 (14.8%), pneumothorax in 1 (3.7%), and hydropneumothorax in 1 (3.7%) of the cases, respectively. Histopathological examination failed to reveal any typing in 17 (63%) of the cases. On the other hand, 5 (18.5%) of the remainder cases were of the epitheloid type, 4 (14.8%) were of the sarcomatoid type, and 1 (3.7%) was of the biphasic MPM type. Mean survival rate of the 3 (11.1%) Stage I cases was 1449 days, of the 6 (22.2%) Stage II cases was 480 days, of the 18 (66.7%) Stage III cases was 214 days. We had no Stage IV cases at the time of diagnosis. A statistically significant difference has been established between the Stage and the mean survival rate of the cases. Discussion: In diagnosing MPM, proper histopathological exam followed by proper radiological staging should be carried out. A multimodality approach comprises the present MPM treatment, but total cure cannot be provided.