Thoracoscopy in Pleural Malignant Mesothelioma Diagnosis. Issue 3 (1997)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tassi, G. F.; Marchetti, G. P.; Fattibene, F.; Chiodera, P. L.
• Is Part Of: Diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy. Volume 3:Issue 3(1997)
• Page Start: 147
• Page End: 151
• Publication Date: 1997
• Subjects: Endoscopy -- Periodicals; Endoscopie; Endoscopy; Endoscopy -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 616.07545
• DOI: 10.1155/DTE.3.147
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1070-3608

Abstract

Abstract : On the basis of our personal experience in 70 cases (66 pleural effusions) observed during the period January 1984- January 1996 we are here illustrating and discussing the diagnostic role of thoracoscopy in malignant pleural mesothelioma. A histological diagnosis was achieved in 94.2% of cases. The endoscopic appearance was clearly neoplastic (masses, nodules) in 53 patients (75.7%) and simply inflammatory in 17 pachypleuritis in 13 (18.6%) and of diffuse hyperemia in 3 (5.7%). In all cases fluid cytology (diagnostic yield: 18.5%) and needle biopsy (diagnostic yield 17.1%) were performed. The extension of pleural involvement (endoscopic staging according to Boutin) was also determined. In 16 patients (22.8%) a parietal and diaphragmatic involvement (stage Ia) was found. In 40 patients (57.2%) an associated visceral invasion (stage Ib). In 14 cases (20%) a diffuse parietal, visceral and mediastinal extension (stage II). The exam has always been well tolerated with few immediate complications: subcutaneous emphysema (4 cases) and some negligeable parietal bleeding (2 cases).