Review and update of uncommon primary pleural tumors: a practical approach to diagnosis.
OBJECTIVE
We address the current classifications and new changes regarding uncommon primary pleural tumors. Primary pleural tumors are divided according to their behavior and are discussed separately as benign tumors, tumors of low malignant potential, and malignant neoplasms.


METHODS
Current literature concerning primary pleural neoplasms was collected and reviewed.


METHODS
Studies emphasizing clinical, radiological, or pathologic findings of primary pleural neoplasms were obtained.


METHODS
Data deemed helpful to the general surgical pathologist when confronted with an uncommon primary pleural tumor was included in this review.


RESULTS
Tumors are discussed in 3 broad categories: (1) benign, (2) low malignant potential, and (3) malignant. A practical approach to the diagnosis of these neoplasms in surgical pathology specimens is offered. The differential diagnosis, including metastatic pleural neoplasms, is also briefly addressed.


CONCLUSIONS
Uncommon primary pleural neoplasms may mimic each other, as well as mimic metastatic cancers to the pleura and diffuse malignant mesothelioma. Correct diagnosis is important because of different prognosis and treatment implications for the various neoplasms.
Granville
Laura
L
Department of Pathology, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
Laga
Alvaro C
AC
Allen
Timothy Craig
TC
Dishop
Megan
M
Roggli
Victor L
VL
Churg
Andrew
A
Zander
Dani S
DS
Cagle
Philip T
PT
D001706:Biopsy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D008495:Medical Oncology / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends; D008654:Mesothelioma / Q000145:classification / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D009362:Neoplasm Metastasis / Q000473:pathology*; D010994:Pleura / Q000473:pathology; D010997:Pleural Neoplasms / Q000145:classification / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery