Introduction: Mesenteric panniculitis is a clinical entity that could pose a diagnostic conundrum to the managing physician. Plain radiographs and sonography are unfortunately not helpful in establishing the diagnosis. But with the computerized tomogram (CT scan), the diagnosis is established. This saves the patient from earning an unwarranted surgical intervention.
Case Report: This is a report of a patient who presented with features of acute abdomen and equivocal clinical and laboratory findings. Plain radiographs and sonographic evaluation did not prove useful. However, computerized tomography was the main diagnostic modality demonstrating a hyper-enhancing rim that is unrelated to the bowel. Radiological evaluation with computerized tomography confirmed the diagnosis and this patient was managed non-operatively with good outcome.
Conclusion: Clinicians should bear in mind a clinical entity such as mesenteric panniculitis, as a differential diagnosis of abdominal pain with attendant equivocal laboratory parameters.
