Living with Peritoneal multicystic mesothelioma
A very rare non-cancerous cystic tumor of the belly lining, seen most often in young to middle-aged women.
Understanding Peritoneal multicystic mesothelioma
It commonly occurs in young to middle-aged women who have had belly surgery, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease. The first symptoms are usually belly or pelvic pain and tenderness. It isn't related to asbestos exposure. About 130 cases had been described in medical reports.
Signs & symptoms
Symptoms vary from person to person. GARD lists these among the most common:
- Belly pain
- Bloated belly
- Constipation
- Heavy or irregular bleeding
- Painful sex
- Weight loss
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Specialists who may be involved include cancer specialists.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- Cancer specialists (oncologists)
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation and other patient organizations
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD says the specific cause is unknown. It isn't related to asbestos exposure.
Also known as: benign multicystic peritoneal mesothelioma; cystic mesothelioma of peritoneum; multicystic mesothelioma; multicystic mesothelioma of peritoneum; multicystic mesothelioma of the peritoneum; multilocular peritoneal inclusion cyst
Patient organizations
- Mesothelioma Applied Research FoundationPeritoneal multicystic mesothelioma · United States
- Mesothelioma GuidePeritoneal multicystic mesothelioma · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Peritoneal multicystic mesothelioma.
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- Eligibility is confirmed by the study team
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