Cancer, Benign Mesothelioma

Mesotheliomas represent a proliferative neoplasm made up of epithelial and mesenchymal cells of the mesothelium which make up part of the serosal covering and lining of various organ surfaces within the body. Mesotheliomas can be broadly divided into benign and malignant types. This article will focus on the benign form. Although they are referred to as "benign," after removal, these lesions have been shown to have a high propensity for local recurrence, and in some rare cases, it has been suspected to undergo malignant transformation. A common form of the benign mesothelioma is known as benign multicystic mesothelioma of the peritoneum (BMMP). Mesotheliomas are very rare neoplasms, usually arising from the serosal surface of organs in the pelvic region such as the bladder, uterus, ovaries, or rectum. Benign mesotheliomas also have been commonly reported to develop from the pleura, pericardium, and peritoneum. The developmental pathogenesis of these neoplasms is unclear, and unlike their malignant counterpart, there is not an established relationship to asbestos exposure. Patients will often present with abdominal pain or abdominal masses, unexpected weight gain, shortness of breath, and/or pleural effusion.