Malignant pleural mesothelioma presenting with recurrent hydropneumothorax and an abdominal mass

S. Alghofaili

Volume : VIII, Issue : VI, June - 2019

Malignant pleural mesothelioma presenting with recurrent hydropneumothorax and an abdominal mass

S. Alghofaili

Abstract :

Although malignant pleural mesothelioma is only a rare cause of recurrent spontaneous hydropneumothorax, this underlying pathology needs to be considered especially in older patients with histories relevant to occupational exposure to asbestos. An 80–year–old retired mechanic presented with recurrent left hydropneumothorax and a superficial mass in the left flank. A CT scan demonstrated a large mass in the left loin, extending from the 10th rib to the iliac crest. Histopathologic examination, which required the use of confirmatory electron microscopy, resulted in a diagnosis of epithelioid malignant mesothelioma. Persistent (hydro)pneumothoraces need to be thoroughly investigated and occupational history taking is essential to raise the index of suspicion of MPM and ensure a timely diagnosis