Nonspecific mesenteric lymphadenitis

This code represents inflammation of the lymph nodes located in the mesentery, which is the tissue that attaches the intestines to the abdominal wall. It is characterized by abdominal pain, fever, and sometimes vomiting, often mimicking appendicitis. The term "nonspecific" indicates that a definitive infectious agent or other specific cause has not been identified.

Use this code when documentation confirms inflammation of the mesenteric lymph nodes without a specified underlying cause. This diagnosis is often made after imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan) reveal enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes in a patient presenting with acute abdominal pain, and other more serious conditions have been ruled out.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "nonspecific" or that no specific etiology for the lymphadenitis was identified.
• Do not use this code if a specific cause for the mesenteric lymphadenitis (e.g., bacterial infection, inflammatory bowel disease) is documented; instead, code the underlying condition.
• Consider sequencing this code after symptoms like abdominal pain (R10.-) if the lymphadenitis is considered a manifestation of those symptoms, or as the primary diagnosis if it is the definitive cause of the patient's presentation.