Mesothelioma:
Chapter: 12
Refers to primary pleural tumors including benign and malignant mesotheliomas. Benign mesothelioma, (also called pleural fibroma), does not produce a pleural effusion and has no relationship to asbestos exposure. Malignant mesotheliomas may arise from either the visceral or parietal pleura, and are associated with asbestos exposure and pleural effusion. Malignant mesothelioma is a diffuse tumor that invades lung and spreads widely in the pleural space. It frequently invades other thoracic structures. The prognosis is poor.