Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis: case series from a university center

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Gastroenterology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) is a fatal complication of long-term peritoneal dialysis (PD).
• This study focuses on the clinical features of EPS in Korean PD patients.
• Data was collected from a single university center.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the clinical features of Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) in Korean patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD).
• To analyze the incidence, clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes of EPS in this cohort.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective data collection from 606 PD patients.
• Study period: August 2001 to August 2011 at Kyungpook National University Hospital.
• EPS diagnosis confirmed by clinical, symptomatic, and radiological findings.

Main Results:

• Eight patients (1.3%) were diagnosed with EPS, with a mean age of 48.5 years.
• Most EPS patients had multiple peritonitis episodes; diagnosis often occurred after PD cessation.
• Treatment involved nutritional support, corticosteroids, tamoxifen, and in one case, surgery. The mortality rate was 50%.

Conclusions:

• Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) is a serious, life-threatening complication for long-term PD patients.
• Careful monitoring and early diagnosis are essential to mitigate EPS incidence and mortality.
• Further research may elucidate preventative strategies and optimize treatment protocols.