Sclerosing mesenteritis: a comprehensive clinical review

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Rare Diseases
• Abdominal Imaging

Background:

• Sclerosing mesenteritis is a rare condition with <1% prevalence, encompassing mesenteric panniculitis, retractile mesenteritis, and mesenteric lipodystrophy.
• Its etiology is uncertain, with suspected links to trauma, autoimmune disorders, surgery, and malignancy.
• The condition presents with varied symptoms, often abdominal pain, complicating diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a literature overview on the diagnosis, etiology, and management of sclerosing mesenteritis.
• To enhance physician awareness of this rare and complex abdominal condition.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on sclerosing mesenteritis.
• Synthesis of information regarding diagnostic approaches, etiological factors, and treatment strategies.

Main Results:

• Sclerosing mesenteritis presents a diagnostic challenge due to its broad symptom spectrum.
• Treatment varies from surgical intervention for obstruction to immunosuppressive therapy for pain.

Conclusions:

• Increased physician awareness is crucial for timely diagnosis and appropriate management of sclerosing mesenteritis.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the etiology and optimize treatment protocols for this rare disease.