Mesothelioma is a malignant tumor that arises from mesothelial cells, the thin tissue layer that lines the chest cavity (pleura), abdominal cavity (peritoneum), and other internal organs. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma, which is strongly associated with asbestos exposure. On ultrasound, mesothelioma may present with pleural thickening, pleural effusion, or peritoneal fluid and nodularity depending on the site of disease. Sonography is useful for detecting and characterizing associated fluid collections and can guide thoracentesis or paracentesis to obtain fluid for diagnosis. While CT and MRI provide more comprehensive staging, ultrasound plays a supportive role in initial detection and procedural guidance.
Sonography Term