A 70-year-old man diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma would have which finding in common?

In the context of malignant mesothelioma, it is characterized by the presence of thickening and tumors associated with the pleura, which is the membrane surrounding the lungs. The condition often results from asbestos exposure, leading to the development of pleural effusions and masses due to tumor growth.

The finding of a thick, white pleural tumor aligns with the typical presentation of malignant mesothelioma, as the tumors are usually fibrous and can appear white or gray in color. These tumors can also cause pleural thickening that is identifiable on imaging studies.

Other options, while related to pleural pathology or lung conditions, do not specifically correlate with the classic presentation of malignant mesothelioma. For example, calcified nodules in the pleura are more often seen in conditions like previous tuberculosis infection or as a result of asbestosis rather than malignant mesothelioma itself. Elevated serum calcium is not a common finding specifically associated with this type of cancer, and hilar lymphadenopathy is not a hallmark of malignant mesothelioma as it primarily presents concerning the pleura rather than affecting the hilar regions of the lungs.