Computed tomography appearances of sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Radiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (SEP) is a serious complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD).
• SEP is characterized by thickened peritoneal membranes, leading to decreased ultra-filtration and intestinal obstruction.
• Early clinical features of SEP are nonspecific, often resulting in late diagnosis via laparotomy and biopsy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the computed tomography (CT) findings associated with sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (SEP).
• To highlight the role of CT in the early, non-invasive diagnosis of SEP.
• To improve awareness of CT's utility in managing PD complications.

Main Methods:

• Review of computed tomography (CT) imaging in patients diagnosed with sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (SEP).
• Analysis of characteristic CT appearances indicative of SEP.
• Correlation of CT findings with clinical presentation and diagnostic confirmation.

Main Results:

• Computed tomography (CT) can reveal specific signs of thickened peritoneal membranes, a hallmark of SEP.
• CT enables earlier detection of SEP compared to traditional diagnostic methods.
• Recognition of CT findings can facilitate timely intervention for PD-related complications.

Conclusions:

• Computed tomography (CT) plays a crucial role in the early diagnosis of sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (SEP).
• Non-invasive CT diagnosis of SEP can potentially improve patient outcomes.
• Increased awareness of CT findings is vital for managing this serious peritoneal dialysis complication.