"It can be tough to tell the difference between mesenteric adenitis and appendicitis. Both conditions cause similar symptoms, but the latter is much more serious than the former. Read on to learn more about both from our AFC Urgent Care Ooltewah team! What Is Mesenteric Adenitis? Mesenteric adenitis refers to the swelling of the lymph nodes in the abdomen. It’s often caused by a viral or bacterial infection in the intestines, which then causes ...