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Benign multicystic peritoneal mesothelioma


Other Names:
BMPM; Benign cystic peritoneal mesothelioma; Multilocular peritoneal inclusion cysts; BMPM; Benign cystic peritoneal mesothelioma; Multilocular peritoneal inclusion cysts; Multilocular peritoneal cysts See More
Categories:
Benign multicystic peritoneal mesothelioma (BMPM) is a very rare benign cystic tumor arising from the peritoneal mesothelium (lining of the abdominal wall). It commonly occurs in young to middle-aged women who have a prior history of abdominal surgery, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease. The first symptoms usually include abdominal or pelvic pain, tenderness, and rarely, constipation and/or urinary hesitancy. Since it was first described in 1979, there have been approximately 130 cases described in the medical literature. BMPM is not related to prior asbestos exposure. The specific cause is unknown.[1][2]
Last updated: 4/21/2011
Surgery to remove the cystic lesions is the only effective treatment for BMPM. Aggressive surgical approaches are often recommended. Hormonal therapy has also been attempted in individual cases with variable degrees of success. Most affected individuals do not undergo chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy because these tumors are usually benign.[1][2]
Last updated: 4/21/2011
Most people do well after surgery to remove the cysts. However, about 50 percent of patients experience a recurrence one to 27 years after their initial diagnosis. These cysts rarely become a malignant (cancerous). However, routine follow-up imaging is necessary after abdominal surgery in all patients because of the risk of recurrence.[1][2]
Last updated: 6/8/2011

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In-Depth Information

  • PubMed is a searchable database of medical literature and lists journal articles that discuss Benign multicystic peritoneal mesothelioma. Click on the link to view a sample search on this topic.

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  • My 53-year-old my mother has benign multicystic peritoneal mesothelioma.There is very little information about this rare disease, especially about its treatment. What can be done from to prevent the reappearance of the cysts and what are the methods of treatment for this condition? See answer


  1. Pitta X et al.. Benign multicystic peritoneal mesothelioma: a case report. Journal of Medical Case Reports. 2010; 4:385. http://jmedicalcasereports.com/content/4/1/385. Accessed 4/21/2011.
  2. Safioleas MC et al.. Benign multicystic peritoneal mesothelioma: A case report and review of the literature. World J Gastroenterol. 2006; 21(35):5739-5742. http://www.wjgnet.com/1007-9327/12/5739.pdf. Accessed 4/21/2011.