Sclerosing mesenteritis affecting the small and the large intestine in a male patient with non-Hodgkin lymphoma: a case presentation and review of the literature

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Introduction</p> <p>Sclerosing mesenteritis is a rare disease resembling a mesenteric tumour. We present here a case of sclerosing mesenteritis that affected both the large and the small intestine of the patient. Therapeutic and diagnostic issues are discussed.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>A 62-year-old man with a history of non-Hodgkin lymphoma presented with fatigue, a palpable tender abdominal mass and clinical signs of progressing intestinal obstruction. The preoperative evaluation failed to prove recurrence of the lymphoma or any other definite diagnosis. A laparotomy was performed through a midline incision. The mesentery resembled a tumour-like thickened and fibrotic mass. Abundant, rigid intestinal loop adhesions were observed. Diffuse fibrotic infiltration of the ileum and of the sigmoid colon, which obviously affected the intestinal vascular supply, were identified. A right colectomy and partial sigmoidectomy were performed. Pathological evaluation revealed extensive myofibroblastic reaction of the mesentery with accompanying loci of fat necrosis and areas of inflammation. A diffuse fibrotic infiltration that focally showed a ground-glass appearance was observed. The post-operative course was complicated by respiratory insufficiency and infections and the patient died 2 months after the operation.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Sclerosing mesenteritis that affects both the small and the large intestine is extremely rare. The disease is characterized by myofibroblastic reaction, fat necrosis and diffuse fibrosis of the mesentery. Pathological confirmation may be required for definite diagnosis. If the disease is characterized by severe and diffuse fibrosis, then the application of surgical therapy may be problematic.</p

Fibrous and composite materials for blast protection of structural elements : a state of the art review

Contemporary world is facing numerous bomb explosion attacks on public and civil buildings causing huge loss of property and human lives. As a consequence, the society needs more safety and protection for the existing structures against blast loads. Among the various strategies, one effective way to enhance the blast resistance of reinforced concrete and masonry structures is through retrofitting using various types and forms of fibrous and composite mater- ials. This work presents an up to date review of available literature and publications on the fibrous and composite materials utilized for blast protection of structural elements and highlights the lacking areas where further research is required