Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 7, 2026

The CYP2D6 Animal Model: How to Induce Autoimmune Hepatitis in Mice
Published on: February 3, 2012
Mesenteric panniculitis presenting as liver dysfunction
Kazuhiko Morii1, Tomoko Hatono2, Hiroaki Okushin2
1Department of Hepatology, Japanese Red Cross Society Himeji Hospital, 1-12-1 Shimoteno, Himeji, Hyogo, 670-8540, Japan. moriikazuhiko@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Mesenteric panniculitis is a non-specific inflammatory disorder affecting adipose tissues of the mesentery. Mesenteric adipose tissues contain macrophages and other inflammatory cells, which may secrete tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin (IL)-1, and IL-6. These cytokines collect into the portal vein and thereby flow into the liver, possibly influencing hepatic function. Mesenteric panniculitis often occurs with inflammatory reactions such as fever and elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rates. Systemic inflammatory disorders can evoke acute cholestatic liver involvement, which is mediated by proinflammatory cytokines. However, no reports have focused on the association between mesenteric panniculitis and liver involvement. We report a rare case of mesenteric panniculitis presenting as liver dysfunction. Immunohistochemical staining of the liver demonstrated a marked decrease in expression of canalicular transport systems. These findings indicated cholestatic liver dysfunction associated with mesenteric panniculitis.
Insights
Mesenteric panniculitis, an inflammation of abdominal fat, can cause liver dysfunction. This rare condition may lead to cholestatic liver injury due to inflammatory cytokines affecting liver transport systems.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Hepatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Mesenteric panniculitis is an inflammatory condition affecting mesenteric adipose tissue.
- Inflammatory mediators like cytokines may influence liver function.
- The association between mesenteric panniculitis and liver involvement is not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of mesenteric panniculitis presenting with liver dysfunction.
- To investigate the potential link between mesenteric panniculitis and cholestatic liver injury.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient with mesenteric panniculitis and liver dysfunction.
- Immunohistochemical staining of liver tissue to assess expression of canalicular transport systems.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with liver dysfunction attributed to mesenteric panniculitis.
- Liver biopsy revealed a significant reduction in the expression of canalicular transport systems.
- Findings suggest cholestatic liver dysfunction secondary to mesenteric panniculitis.
Conclusions:
- Mesenteric panniculitis can be associated with cholestatic liver dysfunction.
- Proinflammatory cytokines from mesenteric inflammation may impair hepatic transport mechanisms.
- This case highlights a potential extra-intestinal manifestation of mesenteric panniculitis.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which occurs when the immune system becomes active and causes swelling, pain, and disruptions in organ function. Pancreatitis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition.
Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and lasts for a brief duration, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term affliction...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...
Effect of Hepatic Disease on Pharmacokinetics: Pathophysiologic Assessment and Liver Function Test
Acute Pancreatitis II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...
Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...

