Sclerosing Mesenteritis

Sclerosing mesenteritis is a rare condition in which the normal mesentery (tissue which holds intestines in position) is displaced by scar tissue due to inflammatory response.

There is no clear cause of the inflammation.  Clinical picture might show abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea.

Some people experience no signs and symptoms. In some cases, the scar tissue formed by the inflammatory response might block lumen of intestines making it an indication for surgery.

The most common symptoms of mesenteritis are:

• abdominal pain,
• diarrhea,
• distention of abdomen,
• constipation,
• vomiting,
• weight loss due to malabsorption,
• hyperthermia.

Common cause of sclerosing mesenteritis is an inflammation caused by unknown origin.

The immune cells of our body get signal to destroy the cells of mesenteries after destruction of normal cells fibroblasts in that area start proliferating and form’s fibrous tissue.

Mesenteric sclerosis is difficult to diagnose because the symptoms shown by this disease are similar to other diseases effecting gastrointestinal tract.

Experienced doctors also face difficulties in diagnosing the condition.

Blood tests may be done to check for increased amount of WBC’s and allergic stimulators.

Some imaging techniques such as CT scan will show signs of inflammation.

Treatment for sclerosing mesenteritis does not exist but some medications can be used to decrease the signs and symptoms caused by inflammation:

• NSAID’s-  these nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can inhibit the process of inflammation thus preventing the formation of scar tissue.  
• Glucocorticoids- they have a wide spectrum of action and they mainly inhibit the immune response decreasing the chances of inflammation.
• Analgesics- some painkillers can be administered to treat the abdominal pain.
• Surgery- if there is obstruction or compression caused by the scar tissue surgery is performed to remove the part of tissue which was causing obstruction.

There exists an unknown cause of sclerosing mesenteritis which can induce inflammation and prevention will include:

• eating hygienic food,
• Stress free life.

Any known alternative remedies for the treatment of mesenteric sclerosis are not available. But home remedies to treat the symptoms of inflammation can be used such as consumption of:

• flavonoids,
• strawberries,
• aloe Vera juice.

Herbs such as sarsaparilla and yarrow can depress immune system and can be used to prevent the inflammation. 

Since sclerosing mesenteritis is an inflammatory response in mesentery of our body some changes in the lifestyle must be made to improve the condition or to make life easier.

To eat foods which are digestible easily because intestinal motility is not stable.  

Although coping from this disease needs no much attention but regular consultation with a doctor is suggested for better healing of the disease.

The prescribed drugs must be taken on time and course of drugs must be completed.

Risks and complications of sclerosing mesenteritis include:

• Malabsorption due to decreased motility of intestines.
• Necrosis of intestine due to obstruction of blood flow to the intestine, these kind of necrosis may lead to the development of peritonitis and if not treated will eventually lead to death of patient.