Mesenteric Adenitis Flashcards
1
Q
Define
A
Enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes
2
Q
Causes
A
An infection may cause inflammation of the lymph nodes
Mainly in children <15yo
recent viral/bacterial infection > common cause of abdominal pain
3
Q
Clinical presentation
A
- Sore throat or URTI or UTI preceding the abdominal pain
- INFECTIOUS picture: high temperature, lymphadenopathy, ↑WCC
- Acute epigastric or RIF abdominal pain
- Enlarged neck lymph nodes
- Feeling generally unwell
- Nausea, diarrhoea
- Decreased appetite
- Abdominal tenderness
4
Q
Investigations
A
Diagnosis of exclusion
Abdominal examination
Basic observations
Urine dipstick and MSU
USS if indicated
5
Q
Management
A
Usually self-limiting and NO treatment needed
Painkillers
Antibiotics if bacterial infection suspected
Laparoscopy to rule out other causes e.g. appendicitis – often diagnosed here (with normal appendix)
6
Q
Prognosis
A
Symptoms improve within a few days, clearing up completely within 2 weeks
Safety net for increased pain, deterioration, etc.
