From the Research
Treatment for mesenteric panniculitis should prioritize corticosteroids like prednisone as the first-line treatment to reduce inflammation, with tamoxifen added for its anti-fibrotic properties, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Overview of Mesenteric Panniculitis Treatment
Mesenteric panniculitis is a benign condition characterized by chronic inflammation and fibrosis of adipose tissue mainly of the small bowel mesentery. The treatment approach is generally supportive and based on the severity of symptoms and presence of complications.
First-Line Treatment
- Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are often used as the first-line treatment to reduce inflammation, with a typical starting dose of 40-60mg daily and gradual tapering over several months 2, 1.
- Tamoxifen may be added to the treatment regimen for its anti-fibrotic properties, typically at a dose of 10-20mg twice daily 2.
Supportive Care
- Supportive care for mesenteric panniculitis includes pain management with acetaminophen or, if necessary, low-dose opioids, and dietary modifications to reduce symptoms 3, 1.
- Close monitoring for complications such as bowel obstruction or perforation is also essential.
Treatment Effectiveness
- The effectiveness of treatment varies based on disease severity and underlying causes, with some cases resolving completely while others require long-term management 4, 1.
- Surgery is generally reserved for cases of recurrent bowel obstruction or when the diagnosis is unclear, and malignancy is suspected 2, 3.
Enterocolitis Treatment
- Enterocolitis treatment depends on its cause but generally includes antibiotics for bacterial infections, bowel rest, intravenous fluids for rehydration, and anti-inflammatory medications [@Example@].
- For inflammatory bowel disease-related enterocolitis, mesalamine, corticosteroids, or biologics like infliximab may be used [@Example@].