Malignant Mesothelioma (Lung Cancer)

Question 1

What is malignant mesothelioma?

Answer 1

Malignant tumour of the mesothelial cells of the pleura

Question 2

What causes malignant mesothelioma?

Answer 2

Occupational asbestos exposure

Question 3

What are the symptoms of malignant mesothelioma?

Answer 3

SOB, Chest pain, Weight loss and Recurrent pleural effusions

Question 4

What are the signs of malignant mesothelioma?

Answer 4

Clubbing or lymphadenopathy (if it has metastasised)

Question 5

What investigations can be used to confirm a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma?

Answer 5

CXR, CT, pleural tap and biopsy

Question 6

What results would a CXR show in malignant mesothelioma?

Answer 6

Pleural effusions

Question 7

What results would a CT show in malignant mesothelioma?

Answer 7

Pleural thickenings

Question 8

What are the main treatments used in malignant mesothelioma?

Answer 8

Pleurodesis & Surgery +/- Chemotherapy +/- radiotherapy

Question 9

What is pleurodesis?

Answer 9

It is medical procedure in which the pleural space is artificially obliterated. It involves the adhesion of the two pleurae sclerosing TALC to prevent effusions.