Intraabdominal panniculitis. Report of three cases and review of the literature
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Abstract:
Intraabdominal panniculitis is a rare, benign idiopathic disorder of the mesentery. Patients usually present with abdominal pain and a palpable mass. The cross-sectional imaging findings are characteristic and consist of a fibrofatty central mesenteric mass lesion encapsulating the mesenteric vessels with displacement of the bowel loops, that can suggest the diagnosis. Imaging is also important to establish a definitive diagnosis by an image-guided percutaneous biopsy, assess extent of the disease for selection of appropriate therapy, exclude associated abnormalities namely malignancies, and for follow-up.
Insights
Intraabdominal panniculitis is a rare mesenteric disorder causing abdominal pain. Characteristic imaging findings aid diagnosis, with biopsy confirming the condition and guiding treatment.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Intraabdominal panniculitis is an uncommon, benign idiopathic condition affecting the mesentery.
- It often presents with abdominal pain and a palpable mass, necessitating diagnostic investigation.
Observation:
- Cross-sectional imaging reveals a distinctive fibrofatty mesenteric mass.
- This mass typically encases mesenteric vessels and displaces adjacent bowel loops.
Findings:
- Imaging findings are suggestive of intraabdominal panniculitis.
- Image-guided percutaneous biopsy is crucial for definitive diagnosis and staging.
Implications:
- Accurate diagnosis and staging via imaging and biopsy are essential for appropriate therapeutic selection.
- Imaging plays a vital role in excluding malignancies and monitoring disease progression.
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