# Mesenteric Abscess Secondary to Panniculitis: A Rare Case Report

## TL;DR

A rare case of mesenteric abscess caused by panniculitis is reported, highlighting the importance of early surgical intervention for better outcomes.

## Contribution

This case report presents a rare instance of mesenteric abscess secondary to panniculitis and emphasizes the need for early surgical treatment.

## Key findings

- Mesenteric panniculitis can progress to abscess formation, which is rare and challenging to diagnose.
- Surgical resection of the affected jejunal segment led to uneventful postoperative recovery.
- Early intervention in symptomatic cases improves outcomes in mesenteric panniculitis with abscess.

## Abstract

Mesenteric panniculitis is an uncommon, chronic inflammatory disorder involving the adipose tissue of the mesentery. It can present with non-specific abdominal pain, fever, or gastrointestinal symptoms, and may occasionally progress to abscess formation. We report a case of a middle-aged patient who presented with intermittent left lower abdominal pain for five days, associated with fever and loose stools. Clinical examination revealed abdominal distension and tenderness in the right iliac fossa and umbilical regions. Imaging suggested inflammatory changes in the jejunal mesentery. Exploratory laparotomy revealed panniculitis-like changes in a jejunal loop 20 cm from the duodenojejunal (DJ) flexure and jejunal adhesions with a mesenteric abscess segment 25 cm from the DJ flexure. Resection of the affected segment was performed with an end-to-end jejunal anastomosis. Postoperative recovery was uneventful. Mesenteric panniculitis with abscess formation is rare and poses a diagnostic challenge. Early surgical intervention in symptomatic cases leads to favorable outcomes.