Related Experiment Videos
[Mesenteric panniculitis in a man with abdominal pain, fever and diarrhea]
J A M Bloemen1, H A A Ooms, L Th Vlasveld
1Afd. Inwendige Geneeskunde, Diaconessenhuis, Ds. Th. Fliednerstraat 1, 5631 BM Eindhoven.
Abstract:
In a 64-year-old white male with abdominal pain, fever, diarrhoea and weight loss there were radiological signs of mesenteric panniculitis: thickening of the small bowel loops, an infiltrate above the bladder and in the lower right abdomen an ileum loop with a spiculated border, and streaky strands emanating from the mesenteric fat in the lower abdomen. The clinical signs resolved spontaneously with conservative treatment in 3 weeks and after 3 months the radiological abnormalities had disappeared completely. The pathogenesis of mesenteric panniculitis is unknown. The prognosis is favourable. In advanced cases of the disease, anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive medication may be beneficial.
Insights
Mesenteric panniculitis, a rare condition causing abdominal pain and inflammation, can resolve spontaneously. Radiological signs of this condition fully disappeared within three months in a patient receiving conservative treatment.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Abdominal Imaging
Background:
- Mesenteric panniculitis is an uncommon inflammatory condition affecting the mesenteric fat.
- Its exact pathogenesis remains unknown, contributing to diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 64-year-old male presented with abdominal pain, fever, diarrhea, and weight loss.
- Radiological imaging revealed characteristic signs of mesenteric panniculitis, including bowel loop thickening and mesenteric fat infiltration.
Findings:
- The patient's clinical symptoms resolved spontaneously within three weeks with conservative management.
- Complete resolution of radiological abnormalities was observed at the three-month follow-up.
Implications:
- Mesenteric panniculitis has a generally favorable prognosis with conservative treatment.
- In severe cases, anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive therapies may be considered.