Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis

Abstract

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) is a rare but potentially lethal complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). Peritoneal tuberculosis is considered an etiologic factor. We report a case of EPS in a 40-year-old man who was switched to hemodialysis because of peritoneal tuberculosis after 2 years of PD. Because of the persistence of gastrointestinal symptoms and cachexia, laparoscopic exploration was performed, which revealed an important thickening of the peritoneal membrane sheathing the intestinal loops. Accordingly, a diagnosis of EPS was made. Anti-tuberculosis treatment associated with a low dose of corticosteroids stabilized the disease.