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Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
Published on: July 21, 2023
Benign mesenteric lipodystrophy presenting as low abdominal pain: a case report
Jonathan Richard Rees1, Phillip Burgess
1Department of General Surgery, Great Western Hospital, Marlborough Road, Swindon, SN3 6BB, UK. phillip.burgess@gwh.nhs.uk.
Benign mesenteric lipodystrophy is a rare condition that can mimic ovarian malignancy. This case highlights the importance of histopathological analysis for accurate diagnosis, even when imaging suggests cancer.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Gynecologic Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Benign mesenteric lipodystrophy is an uncommon condition.
- Its non-specific presentation can lead to misdiagnosis.
- Imaging findings may resemble malignant conditions, especially ovarian cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case of benign mesenteric lipodystrophy.
- To highlight its potential to mimic ovarian malignancy.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 61-year-old woman.
- Initial diagnosis suggested ovarian malignancy.
- Surgical intervention (laparotomy) was performed.
- Histopathological analysis confirmed benign mesenteric lipodystrophy.
Main Results:
- Histopathology revealed benign mesenteric lipodystrophy.
- The condition mimicked ovarian malignancy.
Conclusions:
- Benign mesenteric lipodystrophy can present insidiously.
- It poses a diagnostic challenge, often mimicking malignancy.
- Histopathological examination is crucial for definitive diagnosis.
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