[Recurrent pericarditis revealing a malignant mediastinal mesenchymoma]

Presse Med. 2005 Mar 12;34(5):363-6.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Introduction: The malignant mesenchymoma is a malignant tumour composed of two or more types of non-differentiated tissue, associated with fibrosarcomatous elements. Its mediastinal localisation is exceptional.

Observation: In a 65 year-old woman, recurrent pericardial effusion revealed a malignant mesenchymoma measuring 11 x 9 x 4 cm, located in the mediastinum and extending towards the pericardium. The histological examination of the surgical piece showed the predominance of an osteo-sarcomatous component. Complete resection was performed with partial pericardectomy, followed by adjuvant radiotherapy.

Conclusion: Malignant mediastinal mesenchymoma is an exceptional tumour. Its diagnosis is based on anatomopathological study of a mass of anarchic composition, and its poor prognosis is related to its localisation and its capacity to relapse locally.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mediastinal Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Mediastinal Neoplasms / therapy
  • Mesenchymoma / diagnosis*
  • Mesenchymoma / therapy
  • Pericarditis / etiology*
  • Radiotherapy, Adjuvant
  • Recurrence