Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis - an overview

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) is a rare but life-threatening complication of peritoneal sclerosis (PD). In 2000, the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis outlined diagnostic guidelines and a clinical definition of EPS. Over the intervening years, new evidence was published and several centers became more experienced managing patients with EPS. Although, further networking was initiated (European EPS Working Group), evidence regarding therapy and diagnosis of EPS is still lacking. Multicenter trials are needed to establish evidence regarding the management of EPS. Risk factors for EPS are identified and patients at risk should be monitored closely. In case of emerging signs of EPS, patients should be referred to an EPS-center before initiation of therapy. Morphology and immunohistochemistry will play a central role in the near future. Nowadays, most pathologists are not sophisticated in the pathology of peritoneal biopsies. Clear histological criteria are warranted. For the outcome of the patient, it is crucial that an EPS experienced surgeon conducts surgery.