Is there an association between mesenteric panniculitis and lymphoma? Case report and review of the literature

Mesenteric panniculitis (MP) is an inflammatory condition affecting the mesenteric adipose tissue, characterized by idiopathic inflammatory and fibrotic changes. We present a case of a 66-year-old woman initially diagnosed with MP, followed by the diagnosis of follicular lymphoma six months later. Despite several proposed hypotheses, the etiology of MP remains poorly understood, with potential associations including abdominopelvic surgery, infections, autoimmune conditions and various malignancies including lymphoma. Several studies have not consistently demonstrated an association with lymphoma. Further research is needed to delineate the exact mechanisms underlying MP and its potential associations with lymphoma, warranting careful evaluation and follow-up in clinical practice.