Occasional finding of mesenteric lipodystrophy during laparoscopy: a difficult diagnosis

Mesenteric lipodystrophy is a rare pathological condition affecting the mesentery. Its initial presentation is typically asymptomatic. Pathological characteristics are unspecific, and generally attributed to inflammation, unless the diagnosis is suspected. Laparoscopy done for other reasons has been, as in this case, unsuccessful in providing evidence for the correct diagnosis, thus requiring laparotomy due to lack of diagnostic tissue. After 6 mo no further medical therapy is required, as the patient remains asymptomatic. Discussion of this case and a brief review of the literature are presented in the following paragraphs.