Summary about Disease
Mesenteric adenitis is an inflammation of the lymph nodes in the mesentery, which is the membrane that attaches the intestines to the abdominal wall. It often mimics appendicitis and is most common in children and adolescents. The condition is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. While it can be painful, it typically resolves on its own without serious complications.
Symptoms
Abdominal pain, often in the lower right side (mimicking appendicitis) but can be more widespread.
Fever
Tenderness in the abdomen
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
General feeling of being unwell (malaise)
Causes
Viral infections: Common cold viruses, gastroenteritis viruses (norovirus, rotavirus)
Bacterial infections: Yersinia enterocolitica (most common bacterial cause), *Salmonella*, *Streptococcus*
Other infections: Tuberculosis, certain parasitic infections (rare in developed countries)
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Crohn's disease can cause mesenteric adenitis.
Medicine Used
4. Medicine used
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help manage pain and fever.
Antibiotics: Antibiotics are only prescribed if the mesenteric adenitis is caused by a bacterial infection (e.g., Yersinia).
No specific medication: In most viral cases, medication is not needed, and the condition resolves on its own. Treatment focuses on symptom relief.
Is Communicable
Mesenteric adenitis itself is not directly communicable. However, the underlying infection (virus or bacteria) that causes the mesenteric adenitis *can* be communicable. For example, if the adenitis is caused by a norovirus infection, the norovirus is highly contagious.
Precautions
Good hygiene: Frequent handwashing, especially after using the toilet and before eating.
Food safety: Proper food handling and cooking to prevent foodborne infections.
Avoid contact with sick individuals: Limit contact with people who have respiratory or gastrointestinal infections.
Stay home when sick: If you have symptoms of a viral or bacterial infection, stay home to prevent spreading it to others.
How long does an outbreak last?
The abdominal pain associated with mesenteric adenitis typically lasts from a few days to a few weeks. Viral infections usually resolve within 1-2 weeks. Bacterial infections may take longer to resolve, even with antibiotic treatment.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical exam: Doctor will examine the abdomen for tenderness and signs of infection.
Blood tests: To check for signs of infection (elevated white blood cell count).
Imaging tests:
Ultrasound: Can visualize enlarged lymph nodes in the mesentery.
CT scan: Provides more detailed images and can help rule out other conditions like appendicitis.
Stool culture: If diarrhea is present, a stool sample may be tested to identify bacteria like Yersinia.
Timeline of Symptoms
The symptoms can vary, but a typical timeline might look like this:
Day 1-2: Initial symptoms may include mild abdominal pain, fever, and malaise.
Day 3-5: Abdominal pain may become more pronounced, often localized to the lower right side. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may develop.
Day 5-7: Symptoms may peak. Medical evaluation is usually sought at this point.
Day 7-14: Symptoms gradually improve, with pain decreasing and other symptoms resolving.
After 2 weeks: Most symptoms should be gone, although some mild abdominal discomfort may persist for a short time.
Important Considerations
Differential diagnosis: It's crucial to differentiate mesenteric adenitis from other conditions with similar symptoms, especially appendicitis.
Hydration: Adequate fluid intake is important, especially if there is vomiting or diarrhea.
Rest: Get plenty of rest to allow the body to recover.
Follow-up: If symptoms worsen or do not improve within a reasonable timeframe, follow up with a doctor. If antibiotics are prescribed, take the entire course, even if you feel better.