Does video-assisted thoracoscopic decortication in advanced malignant mesothelioma improve prognosis?

Interact Cardiovasc Thorac Surg. 2009 Apr;8(4):454-6

Authors: Srivastava V, Dunning J,

Au J A best evidence topic in thoracic surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was: Does video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) decortication in advanced malignant mesothelioma improve prognosis?

Malignant mesothelioma.

Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2008;3:34

Authors: Moore AJ, Parker RJ, Wiggins J

Malignant mesothelioma is a fatal asbestos-associated malignancy originating from the lining cells (mesothelium) of the pleural and peritoneal cavities, as well as the pericardium and the tunica vaginalis. The exact prevalence is unknown but it is estimated that mesotheliomas represent less than 1% of all cancers. Its incidence is increasing, with an expected peak in the next 10-20 years.

Primary malignant pericardial mesothelioma presenting as pericardial constriction.

Ann Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2008 Dec;14(6):396-8

Authors: Kainuma S, Masai T, Yamauchi T, Takeda K, Ito H,

Sawa Y A 55-year-old man with a history of pericardiocentesis for massive pericardial effusion of unknown etiology was admitted to our hospital because of shortness of breath and systemic edema in September 2005. Transthoracic echocardiography demonstrated the massive PE 2 cm in diameter and with several areas of thick hyperrefractile echoes arising from the pericardium.