A rare form of mesothelioma is the cystic mesothelioma of the peritoneum, a thin membrane of mesothelial cells enveloping many of the organs in the abdomen. Its prognosis is benign. Most patients are managed by surgical resection. However, a reported high incidence of cyst recurrence has led to the use of hormonal therapy in isolated cases in an attempt to control cyst size and relieve local symptoms. Its occurrence has been described primarily in young women. Even though a benign prognosis, the diagnosis presents difficulties, requiring extensive electron microscopy and immunohistochemical studies.
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