Sclerosing Encapsulating Peritonitis in Tuberculosis

Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (SEP) is a rare cause of chronic inflammatory condition of the peritoneum and intestinal obstruction. It is the result of encasement of variable lengths of bowel by dense fibro-collagenous membrane. Due to its low incidence, chronic and vague nature of clinical features, it is often misdiagnosed. In the early stages, patients can be managed conservatively; however, surgical intervention is necessary for those with advanced stage intestinal obstruction. The etiology of sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis remains unknown and presumably is multifactorial. We present a case series of patients presenting with episodes of intestinal obstruction and acute abdomen. CT scan of abdomen revealed a cocoon encasing the small bowel which was further confirmed intra-operatively.