Benign cystic mesothelioma: A case report on the presentation of an unusual tumor

Abstract

Introduction: Benign cystic mesothelioma of the peritoneum is a rare, benign abdominal tumor. It can present with vague signs and symptoms and is often found on imaging or incidentally during surgery.

Presentation of case: We report the case of a 30-year-old man presenting with acute abdominal pain that radiated to the right iliac fossa. No masses were found on superficial or deep palpation or on conducting a sonography. The patient underwent a diagnostic laparoscopy with an appendectomy, which revealed a perforated appendix and two cysts in the pelvis and iliac fossa.

Discussion: A benign cystic mesothelioma is an inclusion cyst found in the peritoneal cavity and has no specific clinical presentation. It can be symptomatic or found incidentally during surgery. Benign cystic mesotheliomas have a high recurrence rate and may undergo malignant transformation.

Conclusion: Complete surgical excision of benign cystic mesothelioma must always be the first step of the treatment plan for this condition. It is difficult to treat with no evidence-based treatment modality available; thus, treatment should only be undertaken in a specialized center.

Keywords: Abdominal tumors; Benign cystic mesothelioma; Case report; Inclusion cyst; Laparoscopic appendectomy.