What is mesenteric lymphadenitis?
A person with mesenteric lymphadenitis has inflammation of the lymph nodes inside the abdomen. The mesentery is a layer of tissue that connects the internal organs to the abdominal wall. The mesentery contains blood vessels, nerves, and lymph nodes. When lymph nodes inside the mesentery become inflamed, the condition is called mesenteric lymphadenitis. The most common cause of mesenteric lymphadenitis is a viral infection, such as an upper respiratory infections, or viral gastroenteritis. Mesenteric lymphadenitis may also be caused by bacterial infections.

What are the symptoms of mesenteric lymphadenitis?
Symptoms of mesenteric lymphadenitis include right lower abdominal pain, anorexia, fever, diarrhea, malaise, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms of mesenteric lymphadenitis are similar to appendicitis. A person with mesenteric lymphadenitis may also have upper respiratory infection symptoms.

How does the doctor treat mesenteric lymphadenitis?
Mesenteric lymphadenitis causes by a viral infection resolves without treatment. Mesenteric lymphadenitis caused by a bacterial infection may require treatment with antibiotics. Because the symptoms of mesenteric lymphadenitis can be similar to appendicitis, a person with symptoms of mesenteric lymphadenitis may require observation in the hospital.