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Mesenteric panniculitis: report of two cases
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Chang Gung Medical College, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Abstract:
Mesenteric panniculitis is a rare inflammatory process of the mesenteric fat with unknown etiology. We report two pathologically proven cases of mesenteric panniculitis. Both patients presented with abdominal pain and palpable masses. In one patient, computed tomography (CT) demonstrated a well-defined heterogenous mass containing fat density at the mesocolon. In the other patient, CT showed a fatty mass encompassing mesenteric vessels at the root of the mesentery. Although the definite diagnosis of mesenteric panniculitis depends on histopathology, recognition of CT features is helpful in the diagnosis and avoids unnecessary extensive operation.
Insights
Mesenteric panniculitis, a rare inflammatory condition, presents with abdominal pain. Recognizing computed tomography (CT) features aids diagnosis, potentially avoiding extensive surgery.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Mesenteric panniculitis is a rare inflammatory condition affecting mesenteric fat of unknown cause.
- Diagnosis typically relies on histopathology, often after surgical exploration.
Observation:
- Two cases of pathologically confirmed mesenteric panniculitis are presented.
- Patients exhibited abdominal pain and palpable masses.
- Computed tomography (CT) revealed distinct fatty masses in the mesocolon and at the root of the mesentery.
Findings:
- CT demonstrated a well-defined, heterogeneous, fat-density mass in one patient.
- In the second patient, CT showed a fatty mass encasing mesenteric vessels.
Implications:
- Computed tomography (CT) imaging can reveal characteristic features of mesenteric panniculitis.
- Early recognition of CT findings may facilitate diagnosis and prevent unnecessary surgical interventions.