A Case Report of Peritoneal Mesothelioma as an Acute Abdomen Mimic: A Rare Presentation and Diagnostic Challenges

Cureus. 2024 Nov 27;16(11):e74598. doi: 10.7759/cureus.74598. eCollection 2024 Nov.

Abstract

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare and aggressive cancer often linked to asbestos exposure. This case report presents a 60-year-old man with a history of asbestos exposure who developed MPM, initially presenting with acute abdominal pain, an uncommon mimic of the acute abdomen. Diagnosing MPM is challenging due to its vague symptoms, often leading to delayed diagnosis. Additionally, the patient developed internal jugular vein thrombosis, a rare complication associated with malignancies. This case highlights the rare presentation of peritoneal mesothelioma as an acute abdomen mimic, the diagnostic complexities associated with MPM, and the rare type of thromboembolic event in this case.

Keywords: acute abdomen; asbestos; diagnosis; malignant; peritoneal mesothelioma; thrombosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports