Mesenteric lymph node cavitation syndrome.
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.
Freeman
Hugh James
HJ
Department of Medicine (Gastroenterology), University of British Columbia Hospital, 2211 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1W5, Canada. hugfree@shaw.ca
D002446:Celiac Disease / Q000150:complications* / Q000178:diet therapy / Q000473:pathology; D055050:Diet, Gluten-Free; D006801:Humans; D008198:Lymph Nodes / Q000473:pathology*; D008643:Mesentery / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D009336:Necrosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology; D013577:Syndrome