Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
mesenteric lymphadenopathy
Enlargement of lymph nodes within the mesentery, often mimicking appendicitis.
Full Definition
Enlargement of lymph nodes located within the mesentery of the small intestine or colon, commonly occurring in children as a response to viral infections, inflammatory conditions, or rarely, malignancy. The condition frequently presents with right lower quadrant pain that can mimic acute appendicitis, making clinical differentiation challenging. Diagnosis is often made through imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scan, and management is typically conservative unless an underlying condition requires specific treatment.
Usage
Usage note: Often requires differentiation from appendicitis in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Ultrasound revealed mesenteric lymphadenopathy without evidence of appendiceal inflammation." — Emergency department evaluation
- "The patient's abdominal pain resolved spontaneously, consistent with viral-induced mesenteric lymphadenopathy." — Follow-up assessment
Also known as
mesenteric adenitis
Don't confuse with
appendicitis
Crohn disease
intussusception