Question
My five-year-old son has been experiencing persistent abdominal pain. After examination, he was diagnosed with enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes, and multiple treatments have been ineffective. I am asking experts about the treatment options and am concerned about whether this condition affects his development.
Answer
It is generally believed that enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes are caused by streptococcal infection and may also be related to intestinal inflammation and parasitic diseases. They are commonly found at the end of the ileum and can cause inflammatory exudation within the abdominal cavity. The child may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and fatigue, and an abdominal examination may reveal widespread tenderness without marked muscle tension. Treatment may involve the use of antibiotics or traditional Chinese medicine. If the condition does not improve or if it is difficult to differentiate from diseases such as appendicitis, surgical exploration should be considered. In addition, long-standing lesions may affect the child’s growth and development, so parents should closely monitor and regularly follow up on their child’s condition.