differential diagnosis
Last reviewed 01/2018
The important differential for mesenteric adenitis is acute appendicitis, but the clinical picture of this condition can usually be discriminated from the absence of rectal tenderness, and a temperature higher than 38.5 degees C. However, if there is uncertainty, a laparotomy may be performed. Adenitis is confirmed by a normal appendix and large inflamed, fleshy lymph nodes in the mesentery.