Learning objectives
Our objective is to describe the most characteristic imaging findings in the sclerosing peritonitis,
by reviewing different imaging techniques,
with emphasis on computed tomography (CT).
Background
Sclerosing peritonitis is a condition characterized by chronic fibrotic thickening of the peritoneum,
with a broad spectrum of gastrointestinal symptoms,
which in severe cases causes encapsulation of the small bowel loops,
known as sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis or abdominal cocoon.
It is a rare entity,
with a high morbidity and mortality.
It is important to consider this pathology in patients at risk,
to detect the earliest signs,
and to be able to carry out the appropriate treatment.
Of uncertain etiology,
it is believed that chronic irritation...
Findings and procedure details
Although CT is the best method to study this entity,
other techniques can be helpful in its diagnosis.
Findings with different imaging methods are detailed below:
Radiography (X-ray):
Radiographic findings are nonspecific and include centralize and curve calcifications corresponding to small-bowel or visceral peritoneum,
or peripheral calcifications which can correspond to parietal peritoneum calcifications (Fig. 1).
In small-bowel encapsulation,
centrally located gas-filled and dilated loops of bowel may be seen [6].
Ultrasound (US):
In early stages there is an increase in peristalsis and peritoneal collections,...
Conclusion
Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis is mainly a rare complication of peritoneal dialysis,
with nonspecific symptoms.
It has a high morbidity and mortality due to small-bowel obstruction.
It is important to know the findings of this entity and keep them in mind,
when studying patients at risk like in CAPD or,
related to the idiopathic form,
with subacute or chronic abdominal pain with no clinical history of peritoneal dialysis or other diseases.
CT is needed to confirm this entity,
and its diagnosis should not be delayed in...
Personal information
Roy Lopez Grove.
Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires,
Argentina.
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