Mesenteric Lymph Node Tuberculosis

Mesenteric lymph node TB, also called tuberculous mesenteric lymphadenitis, is caused by M. tuberculosis. It may be primary or secondary to TB elsewhere, mostly in children, presenting as intermittent abdominal pain and diarrhea causing malnutrition and intestinal adhesions. Systematic anti-TB therapy is effective.

Common Symptoms

Abdominal mass; constipation with abdominal mass; fatigue; lymph node TB; tuberculous toxicity; anorexia; night sweats; abdominal pain; low fever; nausea

Causes and Pathogenesis

M. tuberculosis infection causes mesenteric node TB, common in children and adolescents. Primary cases result from drinking bacillus-contaminated milk/dairy; secondary cases are more common, usually from open pulmonary or intestinal TB; rupture of involved nodes can cause tuberculous peritonitis.

Treatment

Anti-tuberculous therapy, supportive therapy

Preventive Measures

1. Control sources: early chemotherapy for sputum-positive patients (~100% cure); early detection via chest X-ray and bacteriology of suspects. 2. Cut transmission: TB is airborne; do not spit; disinfect sputum and utensils; UV-sterilize rooms; boil utensils, sun bedding, soak sputum cups in 5-10% cresol; ventilate and maintain hygiene. 3. Protect susceptibles: BCG gives ~80% protection for 5-10 years, mainly for neonates, infants, schoolchildren, and new urban residents; immunity is relative, so other measures remain important.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Gastroenterology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.