Beyond pseudoappendicitis: A mesenteric lymph node abscess caused by Yersinia enterocolitica in an immunocompetent adult

Yersinia enterocolitica is a foodborne pathogen commonly associated with pigs and typically causes self-limiting enteritis. Mesenteric lymph node abscesses associated with this organism have primarily been reported in immunocompromised patients. We report a rare case of a mesenteric lymph node abscess caused by Y. enterocolitica in an immunocompetent 26-year-old woman without significant medical history who had consumed undercooked pork. The patient experienced lower abdominal pain and intermittent diarrhea 2 weeks before presentation. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes with central low-density areas, which resulted in the diagnosis of a mesenteric lymph node abscess. Therefore, CT-guided drainage was performed at the time of admission, and Y. enterocolitica was isolated from the aspirated fluid. The patient's symptoms improved after 20 days of antibiotic therapy. This case highlights that Y. enterocolitica should be considered as a potential cause of mesenteric lymph node abscesses, even in immunocompetent individuals, and that early drainage may facilitate nonsurgical management.