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Respiratory system
Respiratory system

Mesothelioma (benign-fibrous)
Definition:
A noncancerous tumor of the pleura (lining of the lung and chest cavity).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Nonmalignant mesothelioma is usually a localized tumor that affects men more frequently than women. The tumor may grow to a large size and compress the lung, causing the symptoms of shortness of breath.
Symptoms:
Signs and tests:
A physical examination reveals the clubbed appearance of the fingers.

Tests that may show benign mesothelioma:
Treatment:
Surgery is indicated for a solitary tumor.
Expectations (prognosis):
The outcome is expected to be good with prompt treatment.
Complications:
Pleural effusion (fluid escaping into the membranes around the lungs) is a complication.
Calling your health care provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you notice a chroniccough or other signs of mesothelioma.
Prevention:
There is no known prevention for this very rare disorder.
Review Date: 12/2/2001
Reviewed By: Steven Kawut, M.D., Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York City, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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