Small Bowel CT Appearances

Mesenteric Lymphoma CT Findings

• Single or multiple homogeneous masses
• Can be either round/oval or irregularly shaped
• Mild enhancement
• Increased attenuation of mesenteric fat
• Areas of low attenuation due to necrosis
• Masses surround mesenteric arteries and veins (two masses surrounding the mesenteric vessels may be interpreted as the “sandwich sign”)
• Mesenteric lymphoma can be small or grow to be quite large
• Displacement or infiltration of the bowel is common

Other Information About Mesenteric Lymphoma

Etiology:

• Unknown
• Associated with exposure to certain pesticides and herbicides

Epidemiology:

• Very rare
• Typically presents after age 50

Presentation:

• Palpable mass
• Abdominal pain
• Weight loss

Prognosis:

• Because of its rarity, the true prognosis of mesenteric lymphoma is unknown
• It’s estimated that the 5-year relative survival rate is about 90%

Related Pearls: Lymphoma

Related Lectures:
Desmoid Tumor of the Mesentery: A Potential Mimic of Other GI Pathology