Idiopathic Isolated Mesenteric Panniculitis: A Case Report of a Rare Adipose Tissue Disease.

Abstract

Mesenteric panniculitis belongs to a spectrum of rare diseases affecting the fatty tissue of the mesentery. It is characterized by chronic inflammation and fibrosis of the mesenteric adipose tissue of the bowel. Patients typically present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, bloating, and weight loss. Computed tomography (CT) is commonly used for diagnosis in most cases. We present a case of a 42-year-old male who experienced a significant escalation of abdominal pain over a 24-hour period. Despite seeking medical care at multiple hospitals and being prescribed analgesics, his pain remained unrelieved. Based on CT findings and the worsening pain, mesenteric panniculitis was suspected, leading to a diagnostic laparoscopy that confirmed the diagnosis. The patient was treated for idiopathic isolated mesenteric panniculitis during his hospital stay and was subsequently discharged. This article emphasizes the importance of considering mesenteric panniculitis as a possible differential diagnosis in patients with nonspecific abdominal pain, to avoid overlooking this condition.