Primary malignant pericardial mesothelioma: a case report and review.

Abstract

Primary malignant pericardial mesothelioma is a rare tumor of unknown etiology. The prognosis is extremely poor due to generally late presentation, inability to completely eradicate it surgically and its poor response to radiotherapy or chemotherapy. An unusual case of pericardial mesothelioma which presented as constrictive pericarditis is described. A comprehensive review of the 140 cases reported in the literature so far is presented to assist the readers in the management and prognosis of this rare, pathological tumor.