Acute Mesenteric Tuberculous Lymphadenitis: A Comparative Analysis of Twenty-one Cases

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health concern. Atypical extrapulmonary presentations of this infection may significantly delay its diagnosis and management. Tuberculous lymphadenitis (TL) is an extrapulmonary manifestation of a Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. It is characterized by necrotizing mycobacterial infection of the lymph nodes. The clinical presentation of this disease ranges from fever and malaise to cervical lymphadenopathy and fistula formation. Herein, we present a comprehensive review of the previously reported cases of mesenteric lymphadenitis. The purpose of this study is to acquaint physicians to identify this disease in a timely manner. Furthermore, this review also highlights the rare presentation and management of TL.