Mesothelioma of Uncertain Malignant Potential (MUMP) of the Tunica Vaginalis

Abstract

A well-differentiated papillary mesothelial tumor (WDPMT) and malignant mesothelioma are 2 well-recognized entities arising from the testis tunica vaginalis. Another mesothelial lesion exclusively seen at this site is mesothelioma of uncertain malignant potential (MUMP)—a lesion reminiscent of WDPMT yet demonstrating variable proportions of more complex architectural patterns that could be confused with invasion. MUMP was first described in 2010 with a total of 11 cases reported to date. Herein, we describe 19 additional patients who underwent hydrocelectomy, excision, and/or orchiectomy. Novel morphologic patterns found in addition to the 2010 series include spindle cells, keloidal-type collagen, and multicystic architecture lined by bland mesothelial cells. Clinical follow-up in 9 patients for more than 1 year (1.5 to 22.5 y, median 4.5 y) revealed no evidence of disease recurrence or metastases. Despite greater architectural complexity, MUMP has (1) bland cytology; (2) merging in with WDPMT areas; (3) low mitotic rate and Ki-67 nuclear labeling index; (4) retention of MTAP and BAP1 expression; and (5) benign clinical follow-up. If these cases were malignant mesotheliomas, one would have expected at least some of the patients to demonstrate disease recurrence/progression without adjuvant therapy within the available follow-up time, particularly with limited resection in most patients. Thus, we propose that “mesothelioma of uncertain malignant potential” be renamed as “complex mesothelial tumor of the tunica vaginalis.” Using the term “complex” draws a contrast with the simple cuboidal lining and simple papillary architecture seen in WDPMT. Also, labeling the lesion as “tumor” removes the stigmata of “uncertain malignant potential” and “mesothelioma” that are alarming to patients and clinicians, and potentially could unduly lead to more extensive surgery in an attempt at “complete” resection. At the same time, not definitively labeling the lesion as benign allows recommendations for follow-up.