A problem encapsulated – role of CT

Abstract

Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (SEP) is a rare but serious complication of abdominal surgery, recurrent peritonitis, and continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis with a high morbidity and mortality. The etiology of this condition is largely unknown. Diagnosis is usually established at laparotomy in patients with recurrent attacks of non-strangulating, small bowel obstruction. We report a case of a patient who presented with intestinal obstruction and who showed typical CT findings of SEP which was diagnosed pre-operatively on a CT scan and confirmed at surgery. The interest of this case lies in its rarity and difficult pre-operative diagnosis.

Keywords: sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis; abdominal surgery; peritoneal dialysis

(Published: 15 March 2010)

Citation: Libyan J Med 2010, 5: 4901 - DOI: 10.3402/ljm.v5i0.4901