[2] The diagnosis is verified by macroscopic and/or radiological observations of intestinal encapsulation, calcification, thickening of the peritoneum, or sclerosis.
[4] Patients usually present with abdominal symptoms such as altered bowel habits, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and early satiety.
[5] In the early stages, these symptoms can be linked to signs of inflammation such as pyrexia and elevated CRP, and/or blood-stained ascites.
The intestines become gradually covered with a fibrous cocoon, which causes weight loss, malnutrition, bowel obstruction, ischemia and strangulation, infection, and death.
[14] Implicated triggers include systemic rheumatologic and inflammatory disorders,[19][20] dermoid cyst rupture,[21] gynecologic neoplasms,[22][23] endometriosis,[24] organ transplantation,[25][26][27] cirrhosis,[28] mechanical or chemical intraperitoneal irritants,[29][30][31] infection,[32][33] and medications.
[5] The non-specific laboratory results associated with encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis are linked to underlying infections, malnourishment, and inflammation.
Dilated loops of bowel may appear encased in a dense fibrous membrane or matted together and tethered posteriorly on ultrasonography.
[49] As of right now, the most extensively researched and widely used imaging method for encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis diagnosis is the CT scan.
[49] Increased mesenteric fat density, loculated ascites, and localized or diffuse peritoneal calcification are additional radiographic features.
Benefits include better bowel encasement and peritoneal thickening delineation, as well as the avoidance of ionizing radiation.
[7] Research from Japan has indicated that patients should switch to hemodialysis after the recommended 8-year safe period for continuing peritoneal dialysis.
A potent anti-fibrotic agent, tamoxifen is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that inhibits TGF-β, a crucial cytokine in the fibrosis process.