mesothelioma Path.
(ˌmɛsəʊθiːlɪˈəʊmə)
Pl. -omas, -omata.
[f. next + -oma.]
A tumour of mesothelium; formerly, † a tumour composed of cells derived from the embryonic mesothelium.
| 1909 J. G. Adami Princ. Path. I. 647 Of mesothelial origin: Tumors (mesotheliomas) whose characteristic constituents are cells derived in direct descent from the persistent mesothelium of the embryo. (a) Typical.—Adenoma of kidney, testicle,..‘mesothelioma’ of pleuræ, peritoneum, etc. Ibid. 746 If a convenient term is required for all this order of tumors, the transitional adenocarcinomas of adrenal, kidney, ovary, and testis, we have, from embryogenetic considerations, suggested the term mesothelioma. 1921 Lancet 23 July 173/2 The true nature of these tumours has been the subject of much controversy as is seen by the variety of names given to them—e.g. endothelial cancer,..mesothelioma, and so on. 1966 Wright & Symmers Systemic Path. I. i. 6/1 Primary tumours of the pericardium..are very rare: most of those that have been described appear to have arisen from mesothelial cells, and may in consequence be termed ‘mesotheliomas’. 1971 Brit. Med. Bull. XXVII. 71/2 Wagner..discovered the first of a large group of pleural and peritoneal tumours—mesotheliomata—apparently related to exposure to crocidolite. 1973 Nature 8 June 352/2 Mesotheliomas of the pleura and peritoneum have been linked with the inhalation of asbestos fibres. |