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Definition:
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Benign mesothelioma is a noncancerous tumor of the lining of the lung and chest cavity, an area called the pleura.
It is also called solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura.
See also: Malignant mesothelioma
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Alternative Names:
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Mesothelioma - benign; Mesothelioma - fibrous; Pleural fibroma; Solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura
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Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
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This type of tumor more often affects men than women.
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Symptoms:
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About half of the people with this type of tumor do not show any symptoms.
If the tumor grows to a large size and pushes on the lung, it can lead to symptoms, such as:
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Signs and tests:
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During a physical examination, the health care provider may notice a clubbed appearance of the fingers. The tumor is usually found by accident when a chest x-ray is done for other reasons.
Other tests that may show benign mesothelioma include:
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Treatment:
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Treatment is usually needed to remove the tumor.
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Expectations (prognosis):
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The outcome is expected to be good with prompt treatment. The condition may return in about 1 out of 10 cases. It may reoccur as long as 10 years later.
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Complications:
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Pleural effusion (fluid escaping into the membranes around the lungs) is a complication.
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Calling your health care provider:
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Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you notice symptoms of mesothelioma.
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References:
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Broaddus VC, Robinson BWS. Tumors of the pleura. In: Mason RJ, Broaddus VC, Martin TR, et al, eds. Murray and Nadel’sTextbook of Respiratory Medicine. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2010:chap 75.
Celli BR. Diseases of the diaphragm, chest wall, pleura, and mediastinum. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 99.
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