pleural adenomatoid tumor

Adenomatoid tumours most commonly arise in the genital tract, but occasionally occur in the pleura. They are small and solitary and usually discovered as incidental findings.

Histologically, they are composed of vacuolated epithelioid mesothelial cells forming tubular spaces.

Differential diagnosis

Some examples of malignant mesothelioma have a very similar adenomatoid growth pattern and, as adenomatoid tumours have a mesothelial origin, their immunohistochemical profile is identical.

Since some mesotheliomas are similarly localized, at least in their early stages, considerable caution is needed in making the diagnosis.

The solitary nature of adenomatoid tumours, their sharp circumscription and bland cytological features are regarded as helpful features.