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Incidental idiopathic focal sclerosing mesenteritis in a 4-month-old child
Abstract:
Sclerosing mesenteritis is a rare non-cancerous disease affecting the small bowel mesentery, which occurs predominantly in older age. The exact etiology is not known. Clinical symptoms are very variable and they include abdominal pain and distention, nausea, and vomiting. We present a case of a 4-month-old boy, who died suddenly at home. Based on the investigation of the circumstances of death, results of toxicology tests and histological examination the case was concluded as sudden infant death syndrome. During life, the child had repeated abdominal pain with distention. Secondary autopsy finding was a significant thickening of terminal ileum mesentery the length of 2,5 cm, with thickness reaching up to 1,5 cm and affecting almost half the circumference of the small intestine. According to the current literature, the case discussed in this article is the youngest recorded.
Insights
Sclerosing mesenteritis, a rare condition, was found in a 4-month-old infant, the youngest recorded case. This rare disease affects the small bowel mesentery and presents with varied symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Sclerosing mesenteritis is a rare, benign condition affecting the small bowel mesentery, typically seen in older adults.
- Its etiology remains unknown, and clinical presentations are highly variable, often including abdominal pain, distention, nausea, and vomiting.
Observation:
- A case report details a 4-month-old boy who experienced recurrent abdominal pain and distention before sudden death.
- Autopsy revealed significant thickening of the terminal ileum mesentery, measuring 2.5 cm in length and up to 1.5 cm in thickness.
Findings:
- Histological examination and toxicology tests contributed to the conclusion of sudden infant death syndrome.
- The mesenteric thickening was identified as a secondary autopsy finding, consistent with sclerosing mesenteritis.
Implications:
- This case represents the youngest documented instance of sclerosing mesenteritis in medical literature.
- Highlights the importance of considering rare mesenteric conditions even in pediatric cases presenting with abdominal symptoms and sudden death.
