Three cases of acute mesenteric lymphadenitis due to Pasteurella pseudotuberculosis

Insights

Three cases of mesenteric adenitis were linked to Pasteurella pseudotuberculosis infection, not viruses. This study highlights bacterial causes of mesenteric lymphadenitis.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatric Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Mesenteric adenitis is a common condition often mimicking appendicitis.
  • Viral and bacterial etiologies are considered, but specific causative agents can be elusive.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of viruses and Pasteurella pseudotuberculosis in mesenteric adenitis.
  • To report cases of acute mesenteric lymphadenitis caused by Pasteurella pseudotuberculosis.

Main Methods:

  • Investigation of 17 mesenteric adenitis cases (May-October 1959).
  • Specimens included mesenteric glands, appendix, throat swabs, feces, and serum.
  • Virus isolation attempts and serological testing for Pasteurella pseudotuberculosis.

Main Results:

  • No viruses were isolated from any specimens.
  • Evidence of Pasteurella pseudotuberculosis infection was found in three patients.
  • Pasteurella pseudotuberculosis Type IA isolated from two cases; all three showed serological evidence.

Conclusions:

  • Pasteurella pseudotuberculosis is a causative agent of acute mesenteric lymphadenitis.
  • Histological changes in mesenteric glands were consistent with pseudotuberculosis in two cases.
  • This study underscores the importance of considering bacterial pathogens in mesenteric adenitis.

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