Neoplasms of the Mesentery and Peritoneum
posted in The Aging Liver |Benign neoplasms of (he mesentery and peritoneum are twice as common as malignant neoplasms; however, they are still rare.
BENIGN NEOPLASMS
The most common benign neoplasms are fibromas and lipomas. Most often found incidentally during routine examination, these tumors frequently grow large before causing symptoms. The most common symptoms are vague abdominal pain and bloating caused by compression or traction of adjacent structures. Intestinal obstruction may occur.
Diagnosis is usually made by x-rays that reveal extrinsic compression of the large or small bowel. Surgical excision is curative.
MALIGNANT NEOPLASMS
Malignant neoplasms of the mesentery and peritoneum, which are rare, usually include mesothelioma, fibrosarcoma, or leiomyosarcoma. Symptoms and signs include vague abdominal pain and bloating caused by traction or compression of adjacent structures and intestinal obstruction. Weight loss, anorexia, and weakness can also occur. Mesothelioma is associated with asbestos exposure.
Diagnosis is made by x-rays, including an upper GI series, barium enema, and CT scan, lhal reveal extrinsic compression or signs of invasion of the small or large bowel and other local structures. Surgery is the only effective treatment for cure or palliation. However, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may improve results for mesothelioma.
