Mesenteric Adenitis

Question 1

Definition of mesenteric adenitis

Answer 1

Is inflammation of the lymph nodes within the mesentery
• Typically occurs more often in children and teenagers
• Symptoms very similar to appendicitis

Question 2

Aetiology of mesenteric adenitis

Answer 2

• Comes usually as a result of infection in the abdomen that results in inflamed and swollen lymph nodes
• Can be due to:
• Bacteria:
‣ Common causes are beta-haemolytic streptococci, E. coli, mycobacterium TB

• Viruses
‣ Adenoviruses, coxsackie virus

• Parasites
‣ Giardia lamblia

• Often seen after VIRAL GASTROENTERITIS

Question 3

Risk factors for mesenteric adenitis

Answer 3

• Younger age
• Recent viral infection/ respiratory infection

Question 4

History and Examination of mesenteric adenitis

Answer 4

• Pain in lower right quadrant or in other parts of abdomen: (appendicitis is at very specific area and comes on suddenly without previous infection)
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Malaise
• Weight loss

Question 5

Investigations for mesenteric adenitis

Answer 5

• FBC: WCC likely to be raised with infection
• CRP: raised with infection/inflammation
• CT Abdo: needed to exclude appendicitis and can visualise enlarged nodes
• Ultrasound: can also be used, especially if child or pregnant

Question 6

Treatment of mesenteric adenitis

Answer 6

• NO TREATMENT needed: resolves by itself in a few days. Can give NSAIDs for pain

Question 7

Complications of mesenteric adenitis

Answer 7

• Usually NOT SERIOUS
• Abscess
• Dehydration: if severe vomiting or diarrhoea
• Peritonitis
• Sepsis