Differential Diagnosis for Night Sweats and Mesenteric Lymph Nodes

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Lymphoma: This is a common cause of night sweats and mesenteric lymphadenopathy. Lymphoma, particularly non-Hodgkin lymphoma, can present with systemic symptoms such as night sweats, fever, and weight loss, along with lymph node enlargement in various parts of the body, including the mesenteric region.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Tuberculosis: Although less common in some regions, tuberculosis (TB) can cause night sweats and lymphadenopathy, including in the mesenteric lymph nodes. Abdominal TB can involve the lymph nodes, intestines, and other abdominal organs.
  • Sarcoidosis: This is a systemic granulomatous disease that can affect any organ, including the lymph nodes. While it more commonly affects the lungs and hilar lymph nodes, it can also involve the mesenteric lymph nodes and cause systemic symptoms like night sweats.
  • Infectious Mononucleosis: Caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), infectious mononucleosis can lead to lymphadenopathy, including in the mesenteric region, and systemic symptoms such as fever and night sweats.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Hodgkin Lymphoma: Similar to non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma can present with lymphadenopathy and systemic symptoms. It is crucial not to miss this diagnosis due to its specific treatment protocols and generally favorable prognosis with early detection.
  • Abdominal Cancer: Certain abdominal cancers, such as lymphoma or carcinomas of the gastrointestinal tract, can cause mesenteric lymphadenopathy and systemic symptoms. Early detection is critical for treatment outcomes.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Whipple's Disease: A rare, systemic bacterial infection caused by Tropheryma whipplei, which can lead to malabsorption, weight loss, and lymphadenopathy, including in the mesenteric region.
  • Castleman Disease: A rare disorder that involves an overgrowth of cells in the lymphatic system, which can cause lymphadenopathy, systemic symptoms, and potentially life-threatening complications if not treated.
  • Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease: A rare, self-limiting condition that causes lymphadenopathy, often accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever and night sweats. It is more common in young women and typically resolves on its own.