Case report of encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis: the interpretation of functional and structural peritoneal changes

A case report describing the evolution of encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis is presented to illustrate some of the functional and structural peritoneal membrane changes characteristic of this complication of peritoneal dialysis. The appropriate monitoring of peritoneal transport rates and ultrafiltration, together with attention to clinical signs and symptoms, are essential to the early diagnosis of peritoneal membrane deterioration. Recent reports suggest that timely interventions such as a peritoneal membrane rest period may effectively halt the progression of these functional and structural changes. While the optimal surgical and pharmacological treatment of encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis remains uncertain, the latest literature provides a certain degree of optimism.