Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: A Case Report

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare and aggressive tumor that develops from the mesothelial cells of the pleura, primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. The diagnosis is based on imaging (chest X-ray, CT scan), biopsy, and immunohistochemical analysis. Treatment relies on surgery, chemotherapy (cisplatin, pemetrexed), and radiotherapy. The prognosis is generally unfavorable, with a median survival of 12 to 18 months.

We report the case of a 63-year-old patient who worked as a mason and had a history of chronic smoking (40 pack-years) and professional exposure to asbestos. Clinical signs of severe dyspnea, accompanied by chest pain and a productive cough, led to further examinations. The chest X-ray revealed a significant pleural effusion, and the CT scan showed diffuse pleural thickening. A pleural biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of mesothelioma.

The prognosis for patients with mesothelioma is generally poor, with 5-year survival rates often below 10%. Management of this disease requires a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, chemotherapy, and potentially radiotherapy, but outcomes remain limited.

Prevention is crucial and relies on reducing exposure to asbestos, the primary identified risk factor. Laws prohibiting the use of asbestos have been enacted, and efforts to raise public awareness about the dangers of this substance are essential. Research is also ongoing to explore new therapies, including immunotherapy, to improve outcomes for patients with this disease.