Thoracoscopic resection for benign localized mesothelioma

Abstract

We performed thoracoscopic surgery for benign localized mesothelioma of the pleura. The patient, a 53-year-old male, was admitted with an abnormal shadow on chest X-ray. Chest CT showed a localized tumor on the right chest wall, and we suspected a neurogenic tumor or mesothelioma of the pleura in the differential diagnosis. Under thoracoscopy the tumor which was connected to the pleura was completely resected with combined partial resection of the pleura. Pathological diagnosis was a benign fibrous mesothelioma. The post operative course was uneventful.
We conclude that thoracoscopic surgery is well indicated and the treatment of choice for a benign localized mesothelioma.