Primary malignant mesothelioma of the peritoneum

Mesothelioma of the peritoneum represents an extremely rare malignancy of the abdominal cavity and forms about 10% of all mesotheliomas. The annual incidence of the tumor in the general population is 1-2 cases per million. The causative relationship between chronic exposure to asbestos and mesothelioma has been proved. Since the symptomatology of the tumor is usually not specific, the diagnosis is made in the advanced stages of the disease, which is the limiting factor for therapy. Most patients die within 2 years from the diagnosis. We report a case of a primary malignant mesothelioma of the peritoneum in a 60-year old male, who presented with three-month history of ascites, weakness and appetite loss. The patient gave the information that he had been living for 15 years in a loft which was insulated by material consisting of asbestos. After investigations, primary neoplasm of the peritoneum was suspected, which was confirmed by the biopsy and the morphopathological examination. Due to the advanced spread of the tumor and the poor general condition, the patient underwent palliative therapy. The patient died 3 months after the diagnosis. Epidemiological data for chronic exposure to asbestos have to be considered as the etiological factor of disease in this particular patient.