Mesenteric panniculitis
Background
- Also known as sclerosing mesenteritis, mesenteric lipodystrophy, mesenteric sclerosis, retractile mesenteritis, mesenteric Weber-Christian disease, liposclerotic mesenteritis, lipomatosis and lipogranuloma of the mesentery[1]
- A rare, benign, and chronic fibrosing inflammatory disease that affects the adipose tissue of the mesentery (of the small intestine and colon)[1].
- Occurs independently (specific cause unknown) or in association with other disorders[1]
Clinical Features
Differential Diagnosis
Evaluation
- Regional increase in mesenteric fat density on abdominal CT (i.e. “misty mesentery”)
- May be confirmed by surgical biopsy
Management
- Supportive ED treatment
There is no standardized treatment, and it may consist of anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive agents. We recommend resection only when the advanced inflammatory changes become irreversible or in cases of bowel obstruction
- Chronic treatment includes workup of underlying etiology and consideration of medical therapy for severe/protracted disease (e.g. corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, or azathioprine)
Disposition
- Outpatient
Prognosis
- Overall prognosis is usually good and recurrence seems to be rare[1]