Observation
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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
Mesenteric lymph node cavitation syndrome
Hugh James Freeman
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
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