Distinguishing benign mesothelial hyperplasia from neoplasia: a practical approach

Seminars in Diagnostic Pathology. 2006 Feb;23(1):4-14. [Link]

Kradin RL, Mark EJ.

Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA. rkradin@partners.org

Abstract

This paper examines the spectrum of challenges that confront the diagnostic surgical pathologist in distinguishing benign mesothelial hyperplasia from malignant mesothelioma. The current state of the art with respect to the morphological, immunohistological, and molecular features that can assist in the evaluation of benign and malignant pleural disease is examined. Practical guidelines are offered that should reduce the risk of diagnostic error in this problematic area of surgical pathology.