Sclerosing Mesenteritis Presenting as Intestinal Occlusion: A Case Report

Sclerosing mesenteritis is a chronic disease that primarily affects the mesenteric adipose tissue and encompasses a range of fibrotic and inflammatory pathologies. Due to its low incidence, the etiology remains unclear, though various factors are thought to contribute to its onset. Clinical manifestations are nonspecific, ranging from asymptomatic cases to persistent abdominal pain, which is the most common symptom. Incidental findings on imaging have increased with the widespread use of computed tomography (CT) scans. However, the diagnosis remains histological. Sclerosing mesenteritis is mainly associated with a good prognosis, as it typically follows a benign clinical course and rarely presents with complications or persistent symptoms. In this article, the authors present a clinical case of an 82-year-old male patient who presented with abdominal pain, constipation, and vomiting. The patient underwent an urgent laparotomy for intestinal occlusion. Histological examination confirmed sclerosing mesenteritis. Due to its limited understanding, sclerosing mesenteritis is often misdiagnosed. It should be considered as a differential diagnosis, particularly in patients with poorly defined abdominal pain, normal laboratory studies, and nonspecific imaging findings, to avoid unnecessary treatments. Nonetheless, urgent surgical intervention may be necessary in cases presenting with intestinal occlusion or uncontrolled pain.