An atypical case of intestinal obstruction

A 35-year-old male came to the emergency room with symptoms, semiology, and radiographic signs of intestinal obstruction. Computed tomography scan showed a smooth-walled cystic mass measuring 8 × 23 × 16 cm and distended small intestinal loops. In surgery, partial resection of the membrane was performed, and samples were taken. The peritoneal fluid had positive PCR results for mycobacteria (Figs. 1 and 2).

Fig. 1

Fig. 2

Abdominal cocoon syndrome is a rare intestinal obstruction condition caused by a sclerosing collagen membrane. It is sometimes secondary to peritoneal dialysis, tuberculosis, etc. Surgical treatment involves resection of the membrane, and, depending on the findings, adhesiolysis and/or intestinal resection are necessary.