Definition of Mesothelioma (benign-fibrous):

Benign mesothelioma is a noncancerous tumor of the lining of the lung and chest cavity, an area called the pleura.

See also: Malignant mesothelioma

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Nonmalignant mesothelioma affects men more frequently than women.

Symptoms:

Approximately half of persons with this disease are asymptomatic, which means they do not show any symptoms.

If the tumor grows to a large size and pushes on the lung, it can lead to shortness of breath.

Other symptoms include:

• Chest pain
• Chronic cough

Signs and tests:

During a physical examination, the health care provider may notice a clubbed appearance of the fingers. The tumor is usually found by accident when a chest x-ray is done for other reasons.

Other tests that may show benign mesothelioma include:

• CT scan of the chest
• Open lung biopsy

Treatment:

Treatment is usually needed to remove the tumor.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome is expected to be good with prompt treatment. The condition may return in about 1 out of 10 cases. It may reoccur as long as 10 years later.

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 symptoms of mesothelioma.