Abdominal Cocoon A Rare Complication of Abdominal Tuberculosis

Abdominal cocoon is not only a rare complication of abdominal tuberculosis but also a rare cause of intestinal obstruction. As this condition is characterised by thickening and fibrosis of peritoneum with subsequent wrapping of the variable length of small and sometimes, large bowel in a stack or concertina pattern, itis also known as peritonitis chronic fibrosa in capsulata or sclerosingencapsulating peritonitis. 

This condition is difficult to diagnose clinically but can be easily recognised by imaging. Early recognition allows early management and may prevent the need for operative intervention or bowel resection.

Discussion: The term abdominal cocoon was coined by Foo et al in 1978. Various etiologic factors including previous abdominal surgery, peritonitis, chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, prolonged use of the ß-blockers like practolol/propranolol, ventriculoperitoneal shunts, granulomatous diseases like sarcoidosis and tuberculosis, autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus, viral infections, etc. have been implicated. Geographically, the condition is predominantly seen in the tropical regions and mainly in young females. Read more>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>