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World J Gastroenterol. Jun 28, 2010; 16(24): 2991-2993
Published online Jun 28, 2010. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v16.i24.2991
Published online Jun 28, 2010. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v16.i24.2991
Mesenteric lymph node cavitation syndrome
Hugh James Freeman, Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology), University of British Columbia Hospital, 2211 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1W5, Canada
Author contributions: Freeman HJ contributed wholly to this paper.
Correspondence to: Hugh James Freeman, MD, CM, FRCPC, FACP, Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology), University of British Columbia Hospital, 2211 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1W5, Canada. hugfree@shaw.ca
Telephone: +1-604-8227216 Fax: +1-604-8227236
Received: February 25, 2010
Revised: April 1, 2010
Accepted: April 8, 2010
Published online: June 28, 2010
Revised: April 1, 2010
Accepted: April 8, 2010
Published online: June 28, 2010
Abstract
The mesenteric lymph node cavitation syndrome consists of central necrosis of mesenteric lymph nodes and may occur with either celiac disease or a sprue-like intestinal disease that fails to respond to a gluten-free diet. Splenic hypofunction may also be present. The cause is not known but its development during the clinical course of celiac disease is usually indicative of a poor prognosis for the intestinal disorder, a potential for significant complications including sepsis and malignancy, particularly T-cell lymphoma, and significant mortality. Modern abdominal imaging modalities may permit earlier detection in celiac disease so that earlier diagnosis and improved understanding of its pathogenesis may result.
Keywords: Mesenteric lymph node, Celiac disease, Yersinia infection, Tuberculosis, Kikuchi disease, Hyposplenism, Lymphoma