Etymed
peritoneal mesothelioma
Definition
A malignant tumor arising from the mesothelial cells that line the peritoneal cavity
Clinical context
A 58-year-old construction worker with 30 years of asbestos exposure presents with abdominal pain, weight loss, and ascites. Imaging shows thickening of the peritoneal lining with irregular nodules. Paracentesis reveals malignant mesothelial cells on cytology. The patient's occupational history and imaging findings are classic for peritoneal mesothelioma.
Mnemonic
PERITONEAL - Asbestos exposure, PERITONEAL lining, malignant mesothelial cells
These morphemes also unlock…
- periton- — peritoneum (stretched over)
- -eal — pertaining to
- mes/o — middle
- theli/o — nipple; epithelial lining
- -oma — tumor; mass