Skip to content
How It Works
Explore
Resources Ask a Question
Who It's For
Patients
Decode results, prep for appointments, weigh options.
Caregivers & advocates
Carry the research load for someone you love.
Providers & clinicians
Resources for patients in your practice.
Log In Ask a Question
PubMed This is a summary of 1 peer-reviewed journal articles Updated
Oncology

Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma: A Patient's Guide

At a Glance

Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare cancer of the abdominal lining. It spreads by seeding small nodules along the abdomen rather than forming one mass. Accurate diagnosis by a specialist and advanced treatments like CRS and HIPEC are critical for achieving the best outcomes.

Being diagnosed with Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma (MPM) can be overwhelming and confusing. Because it is an exceptionally rare cancer, finding accurate, empowering, and understandable information is critical.

This resource guide is designed to help you and your family navigate your diagnosis, understand your treatment options, and effectively advocate for the best possible care.

What is Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma?

MPM is a rare cancer that begins in the peritoneum, which is the thin, protective membrane that lines the inside of your abdomen and covers most of your abdominal organs [1]. Only about one person in a million is diagnosed with this disease each year [1].

Unlike the more common pleural mesothelioma (which affects the lungs), MPM is confined to the abdomen. The disease typically spreads by “seeding” small tumor nodules along the abdominal surfaces rather than forming a single large mass [1].

Navigating This Guide

This guide is broken down into specific topics to help you understand where you are in your journey and what to prepare for next. Please explore the following pages to build your knowledge:

01

The Basics: Understanding Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Learn the basics of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM). Understand causes like asbestos and BAP1 mutations, early symptoms, and how it is diagnosed.

02

Subtypes and Staging: The PCI Score and What It Means

Learn how malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is staged. Understand the Peritoneal Cancer Index (PCI) score, cell subtypes, and treatment options.

03

Getting the Right Diagnosis: Pathology and Biomarkers

Learn how to read your Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma (MPM) pathology report. Understand BAP1 testing, IHC markers like Calretinin, and what they mean.

04

Treatment Strategy: CRS, HIPEC, and Immunotherapy

Learn about Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma (MPM) treatment options. Understand when CRS, HIPEC, and immunotherapy are used based on your tumor's PCI score.

05

Building Your Team and Living with MPM

Learn how to build a specialized care team for Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma (MPM). Understand surgeon vetting, post-treatment surveillance, and recovery.

Remember, every patient’s situation is unique. Use this information to prepare for productive, informed conversations with your medical team.

Common questions in this guide

What is malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM)?
MPM is a very rare cancer that starts in the peritoneum, the thin lining inside your abdomen that protects your organs. Unlike the more common pleural mesothelioma, it is strictly confined to the abdominal cavity.
How does MPM spread in the body?
Instead of forming a single large tumor mass, MPM typically spreads by 'seeding' small tumor nodules along the surfaces of the abdominal cavity and organs.
Is malignant peritoneal mesothelioma the same as lung mesothelioma?
No. While they are related types of cancer, malignant peritoneal mesothelioma occurs in the abdomen, whereas pleural mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the lungs.
Why is it important to see a specialist for MPM?
Because MPM affects only about one in a million people each year, misdiagnosis by general practitioners is common. A high-volume specialty center has the necessary expertise for accurate staging and specialized treatments like CRS and HIPEC.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Curated prompts to bring to your next appointment.

  1. 1.What is my exact diagnosis, and has it been confirmed by a specialist pathologist?
  2. 2.Given the rarity of this condition, how does this center approach treating peritoneal mesothelioma compared to more common cancers?
  3. 3.What are our immediate next steps for completing my staging and treatment planning?

Questions For You

Tap a prompt to share your answer — we'll use it plus this page's context to start a tailored conversation.

References

References (1)
  1. 1

    Molecular alterations and potential actionable mutations in peritoneal mesothelioma: a scoping review of high-throughput sequencing studies.

    Dietz MV, van Kooten JP, Paats MS, et al.

    ESMO open 2023; (8(4)):101600 doi:10.1016/j.esmoop.2023.101600.

    PMID: 37453150

This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your oncology team about your specific diagnosis and treatment options.

Get notified when new evidence is published on Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma.

We monitor PubMed for new peer-reviewed studies on this topic and email a short summary when something meaningful changes.