Extensive palliative surgery for advanced mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis

Abstract

Malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis is a rare tumor managed principally by radical surgical resection. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy have limited efficacy. We report on a 67-year-old man with severe debilitation from multiple scrotal and inguinal recurrences of a malignant mesothelioma originating in the right tunica vaginalis. Local pain from extensive tumor spread prevented ambulation. Aggressive surgical debridement (total penectomy and scrotectomy) and perineal urethrostomy afforded the patient significant improvement in his quality of life before he finally died of the disease 3 years after diagnosis.