The utility of multi-detector CT in detection and characterization of mesenteric lymphadenopathy with histopathological confirmation

PurposeTo detect and characterize mesenteric lymphadenopathy using multi-detector CT.Patients and methodsThis prospective study included 100 patients with abdominal pain or mass. MDCT examination of the abdomen was performed for all the patients using 16-detector MDCT scanner (Bright Speed 16; GE medical systems). The axial and MPR images were interpreted for nodal size, morphology, number, distribution, and associated groups of LN. Histopathological examination of the biopsied nodes was performed for confirmation.ResultsBased on nodal size criterion, nodes were classified into two groups: normal in 68% and pathologic in 32%. Most of normal nodes were oval shape (88.2%), multiple (85%) and located at the root of the mesentery (70.6 %). Most of pathologic nodes were well-defined (62.5%), rounded shape (37.5%) with lobulated margins (43.75%). They were multiple (68.7%), located at the root of the mesentery (87.5 %) and enhanced (75%). Central necrosis was detected in 6 patients, calcification in 5 patients and extra-nodal spread in 12 patients. The associated other groups of abdominal lymph node enlargement were detected in 26 patients.ConclusionThe MDCT has a great role in characterization of mesenteric lymph node which helps in differentiation between normal and pathological groups based on many MDCT criteria.