Mesenteric panniculitis: sonographic findings

Background: Mesenteric panniculitis (MP) is a relatively rare disease, and sonographic (US) and color Doppler findings have been infrequently reported . Methods: We reviewed the clinical data and US and Doppler results of three cases of MP to determine the role and limitations of these techniques. Results: The sole presenting clinical sign was a soft mass, On US the lesio n was imaged as a poorly margined echogenic mass with hypoechoic areas. Col or Doppler US visualized the nondeviated mesenteric vessels within the mass , which enabled us to perform a safe guided biopsy. Conclusions: US is useful as an initial diagnostic tool, but its results mu st be interpreted carefully. Color Doppler US is very useful in demonstrati ng fine vessels and helps in performing a safe needle biopsy.