Mesothelioma Flashcards
(9 cards)
What type of cancer is mesothelioma?
Cancer of mesothelial cells
Mesothelial cells line the pleura, peritoneum, and pericardium.
What is the primary cause of mesothelioma?
Prior occupational exposure to asbestos
Patients with a history of working with asbestos are at higher risk.
What condition typically occurs before mesothelioma?
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by asbestos exposure.
Who are commonly affected by mesothelioma due to occupational exposure?
Shipyard and construction workers
These professions involve significant asbestos exposure.
chest X-ray for asbestosis?
Asbestosis will be described as pleural or supradiaphragmatic plaques (“soft tissue plaques seen on CXR”).
CXR stands for chest X-ray.
What does a pulmonary biopsy show in cases of asbestosis?
Ferruginous bodies
Ferruginous bodies are asbestos fibers coated with iron.
What protein is highly indicative of mesothelioma on staining?
Calretinin
Calretinin is a marker used in immunohistochemistry.
How is mesothelioma typically described in terms of its appearance?
Mesothelioma appears as a whiteish cancer and is described as an “encasing rind
of pleural-based tumor” (i.e., circumferentially surrounds/wraps around the lungs).
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma appears as a whiteish cancer and is described as an “encasing rind
of pleural-based tumor” (i.e., circumferentially surrounds/wraps around the lungs).
