Abstract
Introduction and importanceAbdominal cocoon syndrome is a rare condition characterized by small bowel encapsulation by a fibrous membrane or a cocoon-like sac. It is an uncommon cause of intestinal obstruction. Less than 300 cases have been reported from all over the world. This is the first case of such a disease entity to be reported from Sudan.Case presentationA young female patient, presented with features of intestinal obstruction that was managed conservatively. Failure of the conservative management has warranted a laparotomy.Clinical findings and investigationsHer features were suggestive of intestinal obstruction that was confirmed radiologically.Interventions and outcomeLaparotomy revealed a membrane-like fibrous material and extensive multiple loops adhesions, findings consistent with primary sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (PSEP), also known as abdominal cocoon's disease. The membrane was excised and adhesiolysis was done. Intestinal obstruction was relieved after surgery and the patient showed good outcome.ConclusionsAbdominal cocoon syndrome is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction.Relevance and impactThe takeaway lesson from this case would be that the PSEP should be sought in any patient with no clear cause for obstruction can be identified. A contrast-enhanced CT scan is the diagnostic modality of choice. Finally, we think that the disease is underreported from Africa and more efforts should be carried out to increase patients' access to healthcare especially in rural areas with no access to hospitals in order to bring more cases to light. This case report has been reported in line with the SCARE Criteria (Agha et al., 2020 [17]).
Highlights
Introduction and importanceAbdominal cocoon syndrome is a rare condition characterized by small bowel encapsulation by a fibrous membrane or a cocoon-like sac
Primary sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (PSEP) is a disease characterized by small bowel matted together by a fibrous membrane or a cocoon-like sac [1]
With only 6 cases reported from this continent and given the fact that the disease is common in tropical and subtropical areas, we think that PSEP preva lence is no less common than in other parts of the world with a similar description, and the disease is underreported in this part of the world
Summary
Primary sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (PSEP) is a disease characterized by small bowel matted together by a fibrous membrane or a cocoon-like sac [1]. It is an uncommon cause of intestinal obstruction. It is more common in tropical and subtropical areas with young adolescent females being the most affected age group
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have