Question
What’s the difference between mesenteric lymphadenitis and appendicitis? My son was diagnosed with mesenteric lymphadenitis at Jinan Children’s Hospital, but appendicitis at our county hospital.
Answer
Acute mesenteric lymphadenitis is one of the common causes of abdominal pain in children and is often confused with acute appendicitis. It is usually caused by viral infections, which may occur during an acute upper respiratory infection or secondary to intestinal inflammation. Abdominal MRI is typically the reliable method for confirming the diagnosis. Detailed examinations can help determine the diagnosis. I hope these suggestions are helpful to you, and wish you a speedy recovery!