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Sclerosing peritonitis: report of three cases
D Dequanter1, J C Lefebvre, L De Pauw
1Medicosurgical Department of Nephrology and Transplantation, Hôpital Erasme-ULB, Brussels, Belgium.
Acta Chirurgica Belgica
|October 4, 2003
Summary
Sclerosing peritonitis, a complication of peritoneal dialysis, causes intestinal obstruction due to peritoneal fibrosis. Early diagnosis is challenging, often requiring surgery for this rare condition.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Sclerosing peritonitis is a severe complication associated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).
- Chronic peritoneal inflammation is a key factor in its development.
- The condition involves significant thickening of the peritoneal lining.
Observation:
- The visceral and parietal surfaces of the peritoneum are affected.
- A characteristic "cocoon" formation encases the small intestine.
- This encapsulation frequently leads to intestinal obstruction.
Findings:
- Computed tomography (CT) scans can aid in early diagnosis.
- Diagnosis is frequently delayed, often confirmed during exploratory laparotomy.
- Three cases of sclerosing peritonitis causing intestinal obstruction requiring surgical intervention are presented.
Implications:
- Highlights the diagnostic challenges of sclerosing peritonitis.
- Underscores the need for increased awareness among clinicians managing CAPD patients.
- Emphasizes the surgical management of intestinal obstruction secondary to peritoneal fibrosis.